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tamagosandesu · 1 year

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Title: And That’s a Wrap Summary: Being a production assistant, Sakura is expected to be the one to run errands, relay messages, distribute and print scripts, and every hard work there is to be done inside a set. What isn’t expected, is falling in love with an actor on set. Author’s Notes: This was originally for ssmonth day 30 but never made the final cut because I was too lazy and unmotivated to do it. Pretty plain, cliche, but enjoy!

_______________________________________

She was late. Again.

Sakura made a vow last night that she’ll be on time today, especially since it’s the first day of taping. Plus, this might be by far the biggest show she’ll be in.

Well, technically, she will be working on, not starring in. The amount of teamwork done by the production team, (which she is a part of), is a great factor in order to allow the actors a better space to be comfortable working on. And by the amount of effort and talent the actors could be putting, will the show’s success be measured.

Being a production assistant, Sakura is expected to be the one to run errands, relay messages, distribute and print scripts, and every hard work there is to be done inside a set. It’s very tiring for someone like her—a five-foot-eight woman with not-so-strong arms for heavy errand lifting.

But she’s willing to endure it, for the sake of achieving the dream that she truly wants.

Though for now, she can't afford to think about such serious matters, Because what’s important at the moment is for her to catch the train and hope that the director won’t have her head when she realizes Sakura's late.

_______________________________________

First day in sets was both tiring and fulfilling for Sasuke.

Being in the industry and acting for about ten years now, he’s experienced many things when he’s working on set. A lot of it was from his co-stars who may vary depending on whoever the director wants. Most were fun to be with, he’ll admit, who are more concerned about one’s welfare than their own comfort. And Sasuke quite appreciates that, being someone who is not as socially inclined as many, and someone who likes his own company rather than unwanted mingling.

Tiring as it was, due to hours and hours of changing into clothes, preparing for scenes, memorizing dialogue, and being committed to the character he is portraying. He could only hope that the off-cam staff are there to help him, because he knows he can’t deal with everything that is required of him when he’s acting.

And as far as experiences so far went, first days most of the times were fulfilling.

But not today though.

He arrived at set at 5 am, still yawning after being awakened so early. It’s been a while since he’s done a project that required more months than usual of filming. While most taping only requires 2 to 3 months of filming, this new project he was starring in was a fantasy series—multiple episodes and almost an hour each one, according to the director that is—so that meant he was due to be in filming production for almost 6 months because of the complication of certain scenes.

As much as he loves this line of work, he can’t deny that there are times like these where he wished he could just lay in bed and forget his career.

Surely, he knows how fulfilling it would be if his show would be officially out in the public, ready to be viewed and to gain recognition which could very well boost his career into further stardom.

But at the moment, where his energy is required in great measure, he wants nothing more than to run home and have a coffee date with his bed.

This proposition was developed after he realized that he was to do what he needed, instead of having someone to run errands for him. It wasn’t a form of laziness or lack of initiative to do certain tasks, but because it was almost expected, or if not, then required that another person from the production team or form the crew members behind cameras should be the one to run errands, because you can’t possibly expect an actor—who does the job in the film—to be the one to do his own errands as well.

Sasuke’s sure he’s heard that there was a production assistant or something along those lines to provide them their needs. But the morning he came, he missed the said person seeing he went out his way to get himself breakfast and get his script before going to the make-up trailer. Supposedly, he’s to go directly to the make-up department in order to start things quicker in filming. But instead, he went out to get himself food for energy fuel and his script because he can’t possibly improvise into character and make his own dialogues.

This made his mood slightly on edge so early in the morning, especially that filming hasn’t technically, officially begun. His face had a scowl, and a frown as if he’s shooing away everyone who would come his way. It did not help that he was practically irritable to the make-up team, who did absolutely nothing yet at all.

He sighs in resignation, hoping that the day would get better, at least.

_______________________________________

“You’re late!”

Sakura winces at the loud voice that assaulted her the moment she stepped foot in the little tent set up for crew members like her. She looks up and sees no other than the director and the producer herself, Tsunade Senju. She looks at Sakura with a piercing glare that makes her feel like a child being scolded, her arms crossed and screaming the very word authority.

“I’m sorry,” Sakura says as she blows a perfect 90 degree, hoping that she could get away with it because it’s the middle of the day and they have scenes to film.

She hears Tsunade sigh, and that prompts her to look up. “Just…go along with your job,” she waves her hand as a gesture of shooing Sakura away. But before Sakura could exit Tsunade’s wrath peacefully, the director brings back her menacing glare and adds, “But don’t think we won't be talking later.”

Sakura feels a chill run up her spine as she’s provided with a mental image of what could possibly happen later.

“Yes ma’am,” Sakura says with another bow, before she quite literally ran away.

When she was a good distance away from the tent, Sakura heaved a breath of relief. She couldn’t possibly bear to stay in that tent any longer without her head getting cut off from mere anger.

Punctuality is important to Tsunade, especially when it's the first days of official filming. She knows the director won’t tolerate this consistent tardiness that she’s doing. But punctuality is also important for Sakura, it’s just that her alarm didn’t ring as loud enough to wake someone with only four hours of sleep everyday, maybe even less.

But nevertheless, Sakura only got herself to blame for her predicament.

None of that right now though, because aside from the looming terror of what Tsunade could do to her later, she is still a production assistant, and therefore there are many things she has to do, or run around for.

So what she does first is to see the other co-directors probably filming scenes right now with the actors, and to see if they need something from her.

And sure enough, the moment Jiraya set eyes on her, he motioned for her to come to him, before saying, “Please inform Tsunade that we’ve already film this scene—” he gestures to the script he was holding, in which Sakura herself was also holding a replica of “—and these scenes.”

Sakura smiles and nods, before making a metal note of the specific things Jiraya told her. She then runs around to check on the actor’s trailers, asking if they need something or they want to ask for something. Like clockwork, Sakura finds herself in the ever-so-familiar routine she’s grown to inhabit. Running around, relaying messages, information, fetching needs, finishing certain tasks, running errands, and the things that someone in her position is expected to do.

Despite the fatigue, Sakura finds herself smiling throughout the day, welcoming the familiar pain in her arms and the aching of her legs.It’s these moments that reminds her of the path she’s really chosen to take, and the sense of satisfaction that she’s doing her job properly—being able to help the production crew and attending to the actors’ needs.

And by tomorrow, she’s ready to repeat the cycle all over again.

_______________________________________

Sasuke’s first day was as tiring as ever.

Due to the availability of locations, and the current location they were in, he had to film most of his action scenes first. And action scenes, by far, especially in a fantasy genre, required a lot of flying and being hoisted up in ratchet pulls from stunts.

He had a stunt double, luckily. But at the same time, there was a complication about it because his stunt double did not look like him at all. Sure his supposed double has the same build as he was, but his face didn't look nearly like Sasuke. The crew members told him that they couldn’t find someone that looked like him that could also do stunts, only someone that looked like Sasuke when he’s facing the opposite direction. This issue made some eyebrows raise and develop the notion that Sasuke’s apparently too pretty or perfect that there’s no one else who could possibly have the same face that Sasuke has.

Thankfully, though, Sasuke took matters into his own hands as he declared he could do most of his stunts. He learned martial arts while growing up, and is physically capable of being harnessed and hoisted up in the air while pretending to fight someone.

A method actor, he was.

So it wasn’t a surprise that the second day, when he woke up, his limbs were tired and his body felt like it was beaten up violently. Running errands would be so hard in that state, surely.

Yet fortunately, by miraculous gifts from above, there was a knock at his trailer door after getting picked up from his hotel to set.

He was removing his shirt to change into something more comfortable when it came. “Come in,” he said nonetheless.

The trailer door creaked open before he heard a very feminine shriek of Oh! and the trailer door closed once again.

Sasuke momentarily looked back. It was a woman. His mistake, being careless of allowing entry. So quickly, Sasuke put on his shirt and fixed himself, before re-opening the door and expecting the person who hastily exited while he was changing to be there waiting.

And sure enough, there was the person. A woman of odd pink hair, looking downcast as if looking up was sacredly forbidden.

Pink hair?

“I’m sorry about earlier,” Sasuke says in politeness, and also to make his presence known since it looked like the woman didn’t notice him yet.

The said woman flinched and quite literally jumped at his voice. Her gaze snapped towards his face and Sasuke saw the most charming sight he had ever seen.

She had bubblegum pink hair, no mistaking, a cute nose, plump lips, and the most fascinating green eyes of viridian.

She was breathtakingly beautiful, Sasuke realized that as he stared and held his breath. What made this whole person even more charming was the bloom of pink on her pretty cheeks, making her all the more beautiful.

“Ah, I-I’m sorry too…” she started, tucking a stand of her pink locks behind her ear. “I didn’t know you were c-changing.”

Sasuke nodded and gestured her inside, knowing that she needed something from him seeing that she went all the way and even went inside his trailer.

“Right,” she cleared her throat after she came inside his trailer, her cheeks still hot with that familiar blush. “I just want to know what you want for today,” she said, then took the thick bind of paper she was clutching between her arm and torso. “I also brought your script.”

Sasuke only nodded and took his script nonchalantly, “thank you,” he slightly bows, before finally asking the obvious, “And who are you?”

The woman once again flinched and nervously fidgeted as she bowed. “Right! I’m Sakura Haruno, the production assistant."

"Hm…" Sasuke murmured. "You weren't here yesterday."

That made Sakura slightly shameful as that blush on her cheeks deepened into an almost red tint.

Sasuke almost laughed. She looked like a tomato.

"Right. I was late yesterday and arrived here when production was already ongoing," she explains, looking anywhere but his eyes, fumbling with her hands and stressfully talking.

When Sasuke only stared at her did Sakura realize that she was just talking nonsense.

"I'm just babbling, aren't I?" she sighs, "I'm sorry…"

"It's alright," Sasuke says as he places his script on the table. "Yesterday wasn't very tiring."

Liar. His mind tells him as he's reminded of his aching limbs and drained energy.

"It wasn't? The other actors told me how tired they were 'cause I wasn't here," Sakura curiously explained as she tilted her head to the side.

Adorable. Sasuke thought as he tried to hide a smile.

Suddenly, a loud ring interrupted them and made Sakura flinch and fumble with her pocket.

"Oh shoot," she whispers, then looks at him. "I'm really sorry, but it's the director and I think she needs me."

"It's okay. Go ahead."

And with that, Sakura left Sasuke’s trailer explaining on the phone with her voice almost about to cry.

Sasuke lays in bed and waits for their call time, remembering how he didn't tell Sakura what he wanted for breakfast.

_______________________________________

Sasuke was wandering around the food section, looking for a potential breakfast before heading to the make-up department when he saw Sakura standing and getting food. She wasn't really that hard to miss since was a very tall woman and had a unique hair color. She had at least 4 stacks of paper cartons on her arms and a few bundles of scrips on her other arm.

Sasuke makes a point of searching around the stalls, ignoring the avocado that he's been eyeing, and slowly inching towards Sakura as if he didn't see her.

Sakura was the first to greet him with a 'hi' before he responded with a 'hey'.

"I've never got your order," Sakura starts as she counts the paper containers she has and orders more food.

"It's fine. I was planning to head here myself anyway."

"Have you ordered yet?" Sakura asks.

"No," Sasuke honestly responds with half a mind to lie.

"You should probably order now, Mr Uchiha. Taping will start pretty soon."

"Sasuke is fine," he murmurs, which Sakura might've missed.

"Pardon?"

"Sasuke. Call me Sasuke," he says clearly and looks at her. Sasuke finds it comfortable to look at her since they see eye to eye easily as her 5 '8" height is a good match to his 6 foot height, unlike most women who look up to him when they talk.

"Sasuke-san then," she says.

"That sounds too formal."

"Sasuke?"

"Too plain."

"Sasuke… kun?"

Sasuke smiles a little and nods.

"That's better," he says. "Can I call you Sakura?"

"Sure!" she smiles. "I feel like if you call me Haruno I should expect a scolding."

Sasuke lets out a breath, the closest thing he does to a laugh. Sakura giggles as well, before their little laughter dies down.

They were left to look at each other, Sasuke’s eyes roaming her beautiful face before his eyes looked at her lips. Sakura nervously cleared her throat when she saw that his eyes were looking at her lips.

Sakura's phone chimes suddenly, this time making both of them flinch. Sasuke looks aways with his face all heated up, clearing his throat as Sakura reads her text.

"Um… It's Tsunade," Sakura points at her phone and shows it to Sasuke.

"Go ahead," Sasuke ushers.

"I'll see you later then," she waves goodbye then leaves with stacks of paper carton on her arm and a few copies of the script.

_______________________________________

Taping started not long after Sakura and Sasuke’s little encounter.

Sasuke, thankfully, was still able to eat an avocado toast before one of the staff took the last one. After that, he realized that he was late for his make-up appointment, so he rushed towards the make-up department and followed through on time for the first scene he'll shoot for the day.

Luckily, the director saw it fit to have a break from the intense action stunts, but decided to push through the dialogue-heavy scenes and the slight romance that was included in the series.

Sasuke's co-star, Karin Uzumaki, was his love interest in the series. Karin had an annoying habit of being loud at most times, but when it comes to the cameras rolling, Sasuke's thankful that she's nothing but professional. He's also met her fiancé, Suigetsu Hozuki who he's worked with in some projects. Suigetsu is quite mischievous and often playful, while Karin is more serious and regal. Now that he's met them both, Sasuke thinks they're quite the match.

Since Karin was needed on the other scenes, they had to tape the little 'knight in shining armor scene' that included a little romantic sense.

Sasuke and Karin practiced beforehand when the crew was setting-up the place. Since romance wasn't Sasuke's forte, and that Karin was more on the girlboss side than the damsel in distress, they both had a hard time to nail a good interaction that had good chemistry during their practice.

They both eventually agreed that maybe it was because they were conscious of the lack of camera that they were unable to get into character. Sasuke and Karin dropped the practice and hoped that once the director said 'action!' the chemistry will come naturally.

When the 'action!' did come, however, it was shortly followed by a loud 'cut!' that left Sasuke and Karin confused.

"There's something wrong," Jiraiya left his seat to stand in front of them. Being the director known for romance dramas, and more-than-your-contemporary-romance genres (read: erotica), Jiraiya was tasked with the romantic scenes. Sasuke has seen his work and heard his reputation, and decided that it's better to watch his more simpler films than those he did that reflected his personality way too much.

"You're both very stiff," Jiraiya said, thinking about how to solve the problem. Sasuke doesn't understand what he means by that, because for all he knows he's been giving it his all just for this scene. "It has to be more…free."

Jiraiya then asks Karin if he’ll allow him to touch her so that Jiraiya can demonstrate to Sasuke what he should do with her. The redhead begrudgingly agrees as she goes in front of Jiraiya. The director told and showed Sasuke where to put his hands, how to look at her, then how to deliver his dialogues.

When Jiraiya was done, Sasuke tried to replicate what he did, but found it hard to do so. Jiraiya kept correcting his tone and adjusting the position of his hands.

They went like that for almost 10 minutes until the director got frustrated and heaved a sigh. He looked around and asked, "I need a volunteer!"

No one seemed to be interested, so the director decided to just choose.

Luckily, Sakura was walking around with a clipboard, checking tasks and whispering to herself.

"Ah, perfect timing," Jiraiya smiled. "Sakura!"

Said girl turned her head to the director. She walks to Jiraiya and bows.

"Yes sir?" Sakura innocently asked, a little bit fidgeting since she's become conscious that she's in the middle of a scene about to be taped.

"Stand in front of Sasuke," Sakura does as she's told confusedly. Jiraiya faces Sasuke then says, "Me and Karin will do what the scene should look like, and I want you to replicate it with Sakura."

Sakura's eyes all but bulged. "Sorry?"

"Is there a problem?"

"Oh, it's just…" Sakura fumbled. "Should it really be me?"

"You're the perfect candidate!" Jiraiya explained. "You're almost the same height and the same build as Karin so it'll be easier for Sasuke to adjust."

"Then why can't I be your partner sir and Ms. Uzumaki be Mr. Uchiha's?"

"Hush now, Sakura. We're wasting time."

Sakura can't fight that. She pouts and faces Sasuke, who tries not to look at her. Sakura notices his ears red and wonders if he's cold under the layers of his costume.

Jiraiya demonstrates with Karin and Sasuke replicates real time. Although, unlike Karin and Jiraiya, who showed perfect chemistry and acting, each of Sasuke’s touch on Sakura felt like it burned her skin. Each dialogue said by Sasuke felt like it's from the heart and not from the script.

After the little impromptu practice was done, Sakura was a little light headed and her knees felt a little weak while Sasuke seemed to develop a blush that no one from the make-up team remembers putting on his face.

It seems the practice was effective because of how better Karin and Sasuke were when they did the scene. They nailed it after 2 tries and finally moved on to the next scenes.

Although Sasuke wasn't sure what caused the success of that moment. He thinks it was the real time practice of having the director guide you. But maybe, it was because he imagined that it was a certain pink-haired woman he was talking to and not his co-star.

_______________________________________

After 2 months of taping, Sasuke and Sakura have grown considerably close. Whenever she would go to his trailer to do her errands, there's no hesitation when she climbs in and their speech has become casual. Sakura would sit on his chair now unlike before where she profusely refused whenever Sasuke offered so.

Whenever they bump into each other, Sakura would smile instead of bowing. Whenever they see each other, they would stand close to each other as if they were long time friends.

The 'practice' incident with Karin and Jiraiya was never mentioned in any conversation. It became an unspoken rule between them to not bring it up to not complicate their budding friendship, or whatever relationship they might have.

Sakura's long accepted that she likes Sasuke. Ever since she saw him on TV, she's always been interested. But now that Sakura got the chance to spend time with him and get to know him behind the cameras, her interest developed into a feeling that she’s sure can only be named as ‘liking’.

She likes seeing him in the morning. Despite what her schedule dictates, she always goes out of her way to visit Sasuke’s trailer first. She spends a good amount of time there just to feel his company and to converse with him, and everytime she exits, it always leaves her giddy and energized.

Since Sakura is the assistant producer, she always runs around the set and meets new people. Every interaction with everyone matters for her, especially if she is to see Sasuke and get the chance to smile at him.

Never once did the thought of confessing and being in a relationship with Sasuke come up in Sakura's mind, however. She's mostly a realist than an idealist and sees the huge obstacle between them: Sasuke is one of the biggest stars in today's generation at the peak of his career, while Sakura is a freshly graduated student that is only starting to pursue her passion.

Sakura thinks she can handle the pain of only being friends with him. She can handle only being able to talk to him and not kiss him. She can handle only being able to stand close to him and not hug him, and most of all, she can handle being the only one feeling this way between them.

The possibility of her feelings being reciprocated, she thinks, is zero, and she doesn't want to stick to delusion and assume that their feelings are mutual.

Although, there are times that Sakura likes to let herself dream about being his and him being hers. She allows herself to drown into the feeling of being together with him and enjoying activities that couples do. But she keeps it managed that she will never act on those deep desires that she has.

Just like now, walking with him is enough. Talking with him is enough. Being with him for a few minutes, for the purpose of work, is enough.

It's enough. Sakura tells herself even when Sasuke looks at her with that look she cannot comprehend. It sends shivers down her spine and stirs something inside of her.

It's enough. Sakura repeats. It should be enough.

_______________________________________

Taping eventually ended after 6 long months and equally tiring days. It wasn't Sasuke’s first time filming a fantasy genre, nor is it his first time being harnessed for action stunts. Although, it is Sasuke’s first time filming a fantasy series that involves being hoisted up in the air in impractical clothing and heavy dialogues. It was both mentally and physically draining for him.

Sasuke was quite happy that taping has finally come to an end and that post-filming will begin. Last days are usually fulfilling and emotional for most since it means that the long journey of making another art is done, and so will it be the last time co-actors and the production crew will see each other.

Sasuke didn't particularly develop any connections with the actors nor the crew to make him dread the ending of taping. He's quite happy that it's done.

Quite. Sasuke thinks. There's a part of him that whispers about a certain and different connection he's made with a certain someone from the production team.

He's not a master of emotions and feelings. He might be quite the method actor, but Sasuke does not have the intrapersonal ability in his body. His emotions are foreign for him and often hard to understand. The simple feelings he knows—happiness, sadness, anger, fear, but not the complex ones like love.

Familial love, sure he knows. But romantic love? He never had the chance to delve into that topic. His brother though, happily living with his wife, is the romantic one between them.

Maybe this is the sign for him to have a talk with Itachi about the topic.

Sasuke sighs as he continues packing the things he leaves in the trailer before heading to his hotel, then finally at his house. There's supposed to be a small celebration after wrapping up, which is probably why it's quiet and not a single sound can be heard near the trailers. Sasuke’s antisocial status is quite known to the public, probably making it the reason why no one asked why he wasn't going to the celebration.

Sasuke doesn't want to leave yet, but he doesn't want to mingle either. He wants to be left to his thoughts and ponder about his decisions, and choices that he doesn't know what are.

He lays down on the little bed on his trailer, about to fall asleep when he hears a knock on his door.

"Sasuke-kun?" that all too familiar voice of Sakura reaches his ears. Sasuke all but smiles upon hearing her.

When Sasuke first felt the urges of smiling, laughing, or finding Sakura cute, he was flabbergasted by his own antics. But after 6 long months, he's grown to accept his reactions and allowed them to flow through with no restraint.

"Are you asleep? I know you're in there!"

Sasuke takes mercy on the woman and opens the door, seeing Sakura holding a little plate of a variety of food, probably to deliver to him.

"Did you go to the party?" Sasuke asks as he steps aside to allow Sakura in.

"Yeah. I planned to not but Tsunade pestered me."

"And those are?" Sasuke pointed at the plate she's holding.

"These are for you. I thought about how you didn't go and decided to get some for you," Sasuke took a bite of the food.

"Hm… Thanks."

Sakura sits on one of the chairs and Sasuke on the bed.

"So…" Sakura starts. "Care to tell me why you didn't go?"

"Mm… Don't want to."

"I wish I could just stay in the tent too. Tsunade just brought out the booze when I left, so they're probably having an alcohol party now."

"Why?" Sasuke genuinely asks. "You don't drink?"

"It's just that… I'm still young… I think."

"Aren't you of legal age? How old are you anyway?"

Sakura looks at him, somewhat offended. "I don't think it's gentlemanly to ask a woman her age."

"That is if you're a middle-aged woman or an old woman, which I assume you are not."

Sakura rolls her eyes. "I'm 23, fresh grad."

Sasuke did some mental maths. 3 years his junior.

"You can stay here," Sasuke mindlessly suggests.

"Nah," Sakura responded almost too fast. I'll come back to the party. Tsunade might have my head if she doesn't see me if she calls me."

"She's probably drunk. Everyone is probably drunk," Sasuke points out.

"I'll go to the tent then."

"What's wrong with staying here?"

"I couldn't possibly intrude. You were about to sleep when I came, so I'll let you rest," Sakura started to stand up and pick up her things.

"I'll see you later, Sasuke-kun."

Before Sakura could walk out of the trailer, Sasuke grabbed her hand and pulled her back inside.

"Why are you avoiding me?" He asks.

"Avoiding you?" Sakura repeats, fumbling a little. "I'm just going to our tent to pack up and leave."

"Leaving so soon?"

"Well, I still have other tasks to do at home. Like….feed my dog, and clean my bathroom, an—"

"Sakura, you have no dog. You told me you didn't have any pets."

Sakura mentally facepalmed. "Well, I'm gonna clean my room and vacuum the living room…"

Sasuke looks at her, unimpressed. Sakura eventually gives up.

"Look, Sasuke-kun, I just want to go home," she sighs in defeat. "You're tired, I'm tired, we're all tired. And since taping has ended, then I'm allowed to pack-up my things and go home to my house."

"But you're avoiding me."

"I'm not, Sasuke-kun. I would never. So do me a favor and let me go, because I really want to get out of here already."

Just when Sakura's mind was made-up, Sasuke looks at her with that look that makes her doubt her own boundaries. It makes her hope that there's something inside of him that cares for her, something inside of him that wants her as much as she wants him.

It's enough. Sakura repeats in her mind. Being friends is enough. It's more than enough.

So, without permission, Sakura kisses Sasuke with all that she has. With all that she wants to say to him, and all that she's been keeping to herself.

Sasuke stood frozen at first, but snapped into reality and held Sakura closer. He responded to her kiss as he fisted his hand on her hair. Sakura responded with a sigh that made something stir inside of Sasuke. He quickly deepened the kiss with an urgency that came abruptly. Sakura looped her hands into his neck while Sasuke’s hands wandered around her hair, to her shoulders, to her back, her waist, then her hips.

When Sasuke found the need for oxygen, he quickly broke the kiss and moved towards her neck. Sasuke nipped at her jaw, down to the junction between her neck and shoulder and sucked at a particularly sweet spot that made Sakura moan in complete, foreign pleasure.

The sound snapped her back to reality as Sakura realized what they were doing.

What happened to boundaries? She thinks as Sasuke continued with his ministrations and slowly traced a path towards her ear.

"Sasuke-kun," Sakura calls out, breathless and panting but eyes wide with epiphany.

Sasuke stops and looks at her with a hungry expression on his eyes. Sakura suddenly sees the possibility of where their earlier activity might've led if she didn't stop, and especially if he didn’t.

"I–" Sakura stutters. "We can't."

Sasuke frowns. "Why not?"

"I'm not ready for this."

"Then we'll take it slow," Sasuke suggests, implying a possible relationship.

"We can't," Sakura repeated. "I'm still young and ambitious, and you're already successful. Don't you think that's a bit hard?"

"Why would it be?"

"You already have a life carved out for you, while I'm freshly out of college barely earning minimum wage."

"And so? Then I'll provide for you."

"No," Sakura pointedly says. "We can't."

Sakura released Sasuke and released herself from his grip. She quickly picks up her things and prepares to leave.

Sakura might be afraid to enter a new territory that she’s never dreamed of entering, but she thinks it’s better than risking it for the adrenaline rush that they’ve felt while being in each other’s arms.

"I'm sorry, Sasuke-kun," Sakura opens the door. "And thank you, for everything."

Sasuke rushes to her, but she has already left the trailer and ran out.

_______________________________________

5 years later, after many more projects following Sasuke’s worldwide success with his romance-fantasy series with Uzumaki Karin, another good news for the Sasuke fan club graces the headlines.

JUST IN: Sasuke Uchiha to star in romance film directed by rookie and rising director Sakura Haruno.

#naruto #naruto fanfiction #sasusaku fanfiction #Sasuke Uchiha #Sakura Haruno #anime fanfic #sasusaku

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incarnateirony · 3 years

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Gotta admit, I'm a bit anti Jarpad. Just because he comes off as entitled. BUT given how he and his wife have their hands in the fans pockets EVERY SINGLE DAY, I'd have thought he was far more minted going forward than Jensen. Neither have anything to worry about.

Corollary of that is Jarpad seems to know how to spend, his wife dresses in 10 grand of clothes daily and he wears 200k of watch on his wrist. Investment watches are usually kept pristine, not worn daily. His wife wears a 1.5m engagement ring. They frequently put pictures of the house on her blog and it's stuffed full of expensive crap. I'd feel claustrophobic living there, seriously.

Please correct my points, cos I'm really interested!

1. Lol-jackles (who is a bit of an arsehole IMHO) said JP would be getting the same for Walker as for SPN and extra (cut of profits as exec), so that's around $200,000 dollars per episode. The ensemble cast of Walker looks really expensive so that surprised me. Do you think that's true?

2. He shoves his overpriced vitamins #Mantrafamily down his fans throat and they are EXPENSIVE. He's an investor, though he's changed his story on his position several times. How much do you get from them?

3. He apparently owns a lot of property, including student housing in Austin.

4. He is owner or part owner of San Jac and Stereophonic in Austin.

5. His wife shills products daily on her blog

FYI, I HATE the "family" tag. The family is the fans not the stars. My test, I know my family's phone number and they wouldn't get an injunction if I went to anyone of their houses. Apply that test to J2?

Fans are PRODUCT to actors and definitely to Jarpad "I care so much I want you to feel better so buy my yellow vitamin wee"

I mean I never said Jared would end up homeless in a box. You can be blackballed and have money in the bank, these two statements have nothing to do with each other.

I haven't checked the Walker payrole. That statement could be true, but I'd say to take it with a grain of salt until you see a receipt about his paygrade. For example, on SPN last I knew he was making about 125K per episode (Jensen was 175K, Misha was just over 100K).

Jensen's value was higher due to a mix of... well, quality, quality of his representation, and the fact he had a few other skills in his pocket on access like directing.

Jared being a producer on Walker likely is worth a paygrade boost, and he headlines the show, truly. It's a matter of how his agent negotiated his worth.

On the other hand, it would be INCREDIBLY stupid for CBS/CW to accept a pitch that high on Jared on a show that hadn't been tested for its success. If Walker was still running its 0.3X in appropriate follow-up to SPN on the same TV season, sure. I guess. But with its fairly stable 0.15 for the last bazillion episodes that is rounding it up or down to 0.1 or 0.2 depending on its thousandths, that is baaaad. The first season should have been more conservative on its paygrades, but CW isn't known for the wisest business decisions and may have highly overestimated its potential appeal, in which case--LOL.

There is some wiggle room on potential budget because at a base, Walker is not a very expensive show to shoot, as it can just drop a camera in real world locations and roll from there. Very little CGI and the like. Again, I'd have to review what the show budget is to see what's going on.

Now to clear up some other things:

Jared does not actually own Stereotype. His friend owns Stereotype. He supported them early on with a small investment but his respective share is not enough to be a decision maker or an "owner" any more than anybody else that owns some stock in a company does. San Jac he is one of the owners of. One of. He holds far larger investment in it with several friends, so he is one of a few co-owners.

Things Jared owns:

Several empty lots

His fancy ass house everybody knows about worth about 5 million (Gen's been given power of attorney)

The "student housing" is:

a 4 bed, 2.5 bath home also for families, that can be arranged like a multifamily unit if needed. If you saw it from the street, you'd go "awww, that's a cute house." (some dude nobody knows has power of attorney--he owns a building company, not gonna be more specific)

a 3 bed, 2 bath home (power of attorney guy has this too)

A funky little duplex with 4 bedrooms per unit, best I can tell. (power of attorney guy has this too)

A singlefamily 3 bed home (different power of attorney guy)

One random suite in a business building with like 200 suites granted to him by a family member

The three with matching "power of attorney" is basically the three rentable ones so Jared himself doesn't have to be your landlord. In total there's 15 bedrooms between three properties (one truly multifamily, one arrangeable-as). These properties aren't located anywhere near each other. There's another 3 bedroom home in there that may be rentable. And some office space that got passed to him and basic cross searching in the past brought up a billion bankruptcy filings so I'm pretty sure it was "quick, Jared, take this".

jared doesn't own some giant mega campus complex. Jared owns a few homes that in theory could be rented out to students. This isn't unusual nor is this something the Ackles don't have too. Jared is the equivalent of that dude you find that owns a couple of houses and rents them out, but he goes through a property management agency by proxy of a building company that does the renovations that puts it in there for him, on 3/4 homes. He's not a landlord titan. He's a guy with a fraction of side income by the time it gets to him on a few properties.

So let's get that set straight before anybody makes it sound like Jared floats the student housing business in some lucrative scooby doo real estate scheme.

AND THEN THERE'S MANTRA:

Yes, Jared is a co-founder of Mantra. Which is honestly... god, don't get me started on why Jared Padalecki should not be simultaneously broadcasting for mental health and then packing nootropics down people's throats. (x for general nootropics) (x for phenibut in particular, which might explain his outburst on SM)

(That's just the one that jumps out as most problematic but the cocktails involved could really just not go over well with the wrong person, some of these things are like mixing OTC ritalin and SSRIs)

At the end of the day, regardless of the ethicality of mantra, I mean, sure, it's a business decision. It makes money. At the end of the day, though, this is not a career move.

Again, nobody ever said Jared's gonna end up living homeless in a box eating beans out of a can. The discussion is whether or not he has arranged himself a viable career forward in media.

Renting out a couple homes by proxy isn't gonna land him roles.

Selling miracle water that turns people into paranoid messes (but with great memory!!) isn't gonna land him roles.

Owning a bar isn't going to land him roles.

None of this actually adds any content to the discussion of Jared Padalecki's professional media career, which his stans keep trying to enter to the conversation to offset discussion of Ackles' business acumen in the acting field.

These are nonstarters in the conversation, at the end of the day. I just wanted to set straight some general details about them.

Jared has a future with an INCOME, but that doesn't mean he's arranged a future in MEDIA. And leave it from Jarpad stans to try to fuck up that conversation.

News flash: Rich White Man Bought Stuff To Make Money. More at 11.

The inability to see how this isn't the same as like. Owning a production company. And owning a record label. And owning a publisher (mostly for vinyls but other potential). And having establishment across multiple distributors and production hubs (WB, Amazon) as a path forward in media is B A F F L I N G.

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lelliefant · 4 years

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You guys! It’s time again for Lellie’s Wild Speculations Based on Minimal Footage!*

Let’s see what we have here.

Tom/Loki in midair, in a behind-the-scenes practice session stunt-leap for the Loki series production.^

What might this image tell us about the Loki series?

1. First, it appears that Tom’s particular physical strengths will be effectively showcased in the stunt choreography on this production. This is a good sign.

Tom is surprisingly adept at gymnastic stunts for such a tall man. Please note the perfect arch in Tom’s form here. This leap is so well executed. Look at the elegance of Tom’s form, his left arm so gracefully extended. Look at that amazing wingspan!

If this clip is typical of the type of stuntwork Tom will be doing, this production will effectively exercise his physical strengths: flexibility, fluidity, agility, precision, and speed. (These are also Loki’s strengths.) If someone is putting this kind of thought into the fight choreography, can we extrapolate that they might be putting as much thought into the production overall?

Tom is just a little slow on his timing to stick the landing on this particular jump—but what an awesome landing it will be when he nails it! By his posture on impact, it appears to be intended to be the classic superhero landing (on one knee).

But we’re not just talking about a landing in this case: Tom is doing the full leap, start to finish. This is a lot harder than being CGI’ed for 20 feet and dropped two feet for the last bit. If they manage to capture Tom visibly doing this entire leap himself—with the superhero landing—on camera, in one shot, it will be an awesome look.

2. Nobody does the big, superhuman stunt leaps like Tom Hiddleston. There’s a reason we’ve seen Loki perform some of the largest, longest, and highest complete jumps in the MCU: Tom is very good at aerial work.

On a spectrum:

CH has great physical strength, but he’s not so agile when he’s at Thor weight.

CEvans is both incredibly agile and strong—he’s an amazing all-around athlete.

Tom has balletic agility and grace. He’s not weak—he’s wiry. He’s flexible and he’s got stamina. He’s built to fly.

3. More importantly, have a look at Tom’s right hand in the new behind-the-scenes clip from the Loki series.

The stuntwork in this new clip is clearly a practice run, but look what he’s practicing: his right hand in a grip held up, extended far away from his body—he will be holding something in his right hand in the final version of this stunt.

This positioning is undoubtedly deliberate. As any gymnast could tell you, an uneven positioning of the hands will throw off your balance. Tom is going to have to keep a perfect balance despite this additional element, and land this stunt—without the use of his right hand!

What could this object in his right hand possibly be? Hmmm... I think his arm is out so far because the object he will be holding is something that could otherwise get entangled in his legs and/or upper body. Something that extends both upward and downward from his grip: a staff or scepter. Does this mean that in the Loki series Loki will have his scepter from Avengers1 (Assemble)?!

Loki’s scepter holds the Mind Stone. So, will Loki have both the Tesseract (Space Stone) and the Mind Stone in the series?

We know Loki will be traveling through time in the series: will he also have the Time Stone?

With possibly three of the Infinity Stones in hand will the series be about Loki questing for all of the Infinity Stones? Six episodes—six stones?

Why would Loki go on a quest to collect all of the Infinity Stones knowing Thanos is also searching for them? (Thanos would still be alive in Loki’s alternate reality.) Does Loki want to collect the stones to use them as a bargaining chip with Thanos? Or does Loki plan to use the Infinity Stones himself? Perhaps to defeat Thanos—who tortured Loki and used mind control on him? Or to overpower Odin and take the throne of Asgard—this time in his own form? Would he then also claim Jotunheim?

4. If Loki will be holding his Avengers scepter in the final version of this stunt, this will be a very risky stunt for a lead actor to perform, himself.

Let me explain why I think this is a particularly risky stunt. As previously discussed, this type of aerial stunt is harder than it looks, particularly because Tom will be holding something in his right hand, which will require him to do some tricky balancing.

Obviously, in this stunt, Tom is also moving at a high speed, and at a substantial height in the air, and for a significant distance. But on top of all that, if he is carrying Loki’s scepter, he will be making this leap while holding a heavy, big, pointy thing. Not a hammer, not a shield, not even a knife—a pointy thing that has multiple blades coming out at different angles.

Of course, they would use a blunted version of the scepter for this stunt. But even a blunted prop weapon would be extremely dangerous at such a speed, with a landing of this force.

Tom once told a story about the Jotunheim fight scene on the Thor set, when he used Loki’s throwing knives. (I can’t find the clip where he talks about this, but it would have been from an interview he did sometime between 2010 and 2013.) Tom said that after they finished filming the scene, he couldn’t find one of the blunted prop knives he’d thrown. It turned out that he had thrown it so hard the knife was imbedded in the wall of the set.

5. Tom Hiddleston has no fear, and he is all-in on the Loki show.

Based on Tom’s own words and the comments of others, we know:

Tom always wants to perform as many of his own stunts as they will let him.

Tom is a perfectionist.

Tom is emotionally invested in this production, not only because he loves Loki, but also because this is his first chance, after 11 years, to perform as the lead in a Marvel production.

Thus, I surmise that Tom is prepared to put everything he’s got into this production. Like, even more than usual—and he usually puts his whole body, heart, and soul into his work. This series could contain Tom’s finest work yet.

6. The fact that Marvel is allowing Tom to do a stunt as dangerous as this one could reflect that he has significantly more decision-making power on this series than in the previous films.

Tom has done big stunts like this before, but never when he was playing the lead character, with the entire production depending on his safety. He’s more valuable to Marvel now, and also more expensive as a commodity, since he’s more famous and successful now.

So, why is Marvel allowing Tom to do this difficult and risky stunt, himself? I’m gonna go out on a limb and say it’s because Tom insists—and on this production, unlike others in the past, he actually has the clout to make executive decisions. If so, this would be a very good sign for the Loki series.

*Note: Lelliefant’s speculations are sometimes uncannily correct but occasionally way, way off base. Lelliefant claims no responsibility for any lost bets or damages otherwise incurred by Tumblr readers resulting from adherence to the aforementioned speculations.

^Credit to @sabine-leo for original screenshots

#loki #loki’s scepter #tom hiddleston #loki series #avengers #stuntwork #Marvel #mcu #loki show #disney+#behind the scenes #stunts #wild speculation #loki’s staff #thomas william hiddleston #Lellie had fun with the photo editing tool on her phone

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mytwitterisdogtoast1 · 4 years

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Dragonball GT is the worst series of all the Dragonball series.

I recently watched a video created by Totally Not Mark about which series is better out of GT and Super when it came to the franchise in general and part of me remembered my huge dislike towards the series so I figured I’d get on my keyboard and do that good ol’ fashioned “post an opinion” onto Tumblr because that is what the site is mostly for. So Instead of posting about how I think super is better I’m going to just post why the hell GT is a horrible show to me and the things it gets right and why in general the show is horrible. Now before I get into that context I am in no way a super fan or the type of person who says that subs are better than dubs because we all love anime and shouldn’t restrict others from liking their thing because we fill we are superior to each other based on our willingness to read or because we think “that the voice actors in Japan are so much better and you lose the feeling you get when you watch Americans try and fail at it”. Look as a filthy casual who usually never gets angry or upset at most things my reasons for disliking GT aren’t going to be what most people would see as a bad thing or even say the reasons I like GT are the exact same reasons and if you can come to appreciate the reasons I give that’s cool and if you disagree that is fine as well as long as it leads to civil discourse because again, it’s anime and no one is superior in their likes to another just because of some arbitrary reasons. In the end, it’s all just cartoons. So before I get into why i dislike GT at every turn I see it show up I have to praise it for what it does right to me. That is the visuals of the how the characters looks. See I get that it’s like 10 years into the future or something like that and some people now look way too old like Krillin or just don’t show up ever unless it doesn’t matter but with who we got they look great and I would never take away how good they look. Also the villains as much as I will get into them are actually kinda cool in their own right and aren’t the worst ideas just implemented in such a poor manner that any real good they do is kinda mitigated by the fact that they are almost identical to some other villain in the end. So now with that out of the way I’m going to get into why GT is one of the worst anime of all time. At least to me. So what makes Dragonball so great is it is a comedy genre even near the final seasons. They either had shitty reasons to amass an army or in general did silly things like make a holiday after themselves when they finally succeeded in ruling the world but in the end the genre of action anime is pretty much parodied with how it is a child who goes in and defeats these muscle men. We have a child who was never really raised by a normal adult trying to fit into a world outside of his normal views and fights these villains who against normal people would lose but in the end they all end up losing to a little boy. It’s a nice adventure with laughs and enough action to really get people to enjoy it. As much as I like Dragonball I never really liked it as much as Z. Yes I do know that it is mostly just Z over here in the west but I don’t see them really being the same manga with the shift in tone that the two had and the styles of adventure they ended up having in Z is so vastly different in comparison that to me they are totally different series when compared to each other. Also I was growing up when Z first came over to America so I didn’t see Dragonball until after it made its first debut on Toonami. So again, totally different series to me. As for Z? Well Z is my favorite anime of all time. It’s by far not the best anime ever but I do believe it is the best action anime of all time for a couple of reasons. 1: I love how in the end they just fight better versions of the previous final boss. Vegeta? That’s just stronger Raditz who can transform. Frieza? That’s just stronger Vegeta who can transform multiple times. Cell? Thats just stronger Frieza who can transform multiple times, Regenerate, Use everyones powers, and also absorb people. You get the picture by now. Everyone else who comes after is just a “better version” of the last and that tickles my fancy. 2: It helped make certain parts of the genre of shonen manga via the introduction of tropes. Transformations weren’t really a thing before Z came along and pretty much every action anime since then has used tropes that Z has introduced. 3: It still holds up today in being a good anime and manga and in general the popularity of it was so big that even now when I’m a 30 something year old that it got a new series to continue even after GT finished it off in Super. These are the reason I think it’s the best action anime of all time but again, feel free to disagree if you want to. As for why GT is such a shit show to me it all comes down to the fact that it introduces absolutely nothing new when it comes to itself that even the villains and the characters are a little in general copies of other characters. That and no one matters compared to Goku. If we start it off sure we have people like Trunks and Pan and even “insert comedy character who is only here because plot that could just be ignored and even removed” A.K.A. Giru. See the series starts off pretty generic in that Goku is training Uub up in the look out. He just disappeared and is finishing his time in what I assume was a 10 year training session. We are introduced to our first “villains” in Pilaf and his crew. They are finding out about not only gods look out but they also find a new set of dragonballs. Convenient plot details that are either confusing or just there to set up the series. Firstly before I get into that why was this never said before, Why did Bulma never pick up on these dragonballs, Why did pilaf just now find them if he’d been searching his entire life after dragonball? So many questions in general but still. Not the point. The point is this, they don’t have a real reason except to introduce our first main villains. Pilaf and his gang. A little weird when you look at it cause Pilaf has been bested so many times that him succeeding now seems like a stupid thing to happen. Thankfully his success is only to again, push the story. Goku and his gang have to now search for the dragonballs. Which is exactly what happened in Dragonball. This time, it’s across the universe. This is where my ability to really in general compare the shows ends. That is until in general I get to the final stretch. See there are very few things I can equate to Dragonball besides the adventure of the day aspect. You have the obvious nod towards Oolong with Zoonama who both want to marry a girl and end up falling for a boy in drag. You have the fact of Goku with a tech savvy Briefs person as well as a spunky fighter. Goku is a kid. Maybe a couple other things if I looked it up and compared but the main thing is that first section of GT is based heavily on Dragonball in general. The final stretch part begins with the “Red Ribbon Army” copy in the General Rildo part with Dr Myuu who is just also a copy of Android 20. So after this part finishes it kicks into the saiyan saga of DBZ. Baby is by far a complete knock off of 3 villains in DBZ being comprised of Vegeta, Frieza, and Garlic Jr. Why is this so? let’s face it, If you compare those 3 with him its basically a one for one beat on what he does with someone else. Firstly he’s in the body of Vegeta and even when he starts losing he goes and just becomes a great ape. Pretty much what Vegeta does in the first saga of Z. As for Frieza they can both survive in space, Has multiple different forms and lastly he hates saiyans. Now sure the reason is different but the disdain for them is pretty much comparing blue to a lighter shade of blue that looks just like blue. We could even mention that Baby is like Cell in that they are both made by science but the comparisons end there. As for Garlic Jr Baby does the same thing in taking control of people and making them the same as with the black water mist. These are what make Baby pretty much a whole of 3 separate people. Next comes the Androids and cell. Super 17 is pretty much just perfect cell. You have past villains returning to take out Goku. Those of which are Frieza and Cell. Which funny enough Frieza comes back but dies by trunks who warns of 2 androids coming to fight against Goku and kill him. Which comes in the forms of Dr Myuu and Dr Gero. Both of which, are you know, not the main androids being talked about. In fact it’s actually 17 and hell 17. Both of which are going to fuse and make one super android who changes forms into basically cell in that he can absorb energy and also has infinite energy as well. These are basically the main parts except that the end takes multiple people to fight off and kill Super 17. To which they then wish back people with the dragonballs because one of the Z fighters died and they want to bring them back. Seems that it would be fine except for the small little detail of its an evil dark dragon who when after granting the 7th wish he creates these evil dragons. Before I get into those dragons lemme question this. If Kami and Piccolo fused and the dragonballs stopped existing for a bit and it took Dende a new person to create new dragonballs wouldn’t he know of the evil dragons as well as also in general start a new chain thus stopping 7 evil dragons from existing? Oh well, at least we get 7 different dragons for Specifically only Goku to fight against. I can see people saying how can you compare the evil dragons to Buu which it’s a lot easier than you would think. How many different forms of Buu are there? would you guess about maybe 7? Cause there are 7 different forms of Buu. 6 of which are different forms when he absorbs other people. So lets take it this way. Omega Shenron also absorbs 6 different “people” in the 6 different dragonballs that aren’t his. Sure, he only gets one more form in that he has now been transformed into Omega from Syn Shenron but still. Transformations are a check. So what are the 7 different forms of Buu? 1:Kid Buu 2: Buff Buu which is when he absorbs the southern Supreme Kai. 3: Fat Buu which he gets from absorbing the Supreme Kai. 4: Evil old Buu. 5: Super buu. 6: Super buu with Gotenks absorbed. 7: Super Buu with Piccolo absorbed. 8: Piccolo with Gohan absorbed. Now some of you might be saying “that’s 8 different forms of Buu and not 7″ But in the end Syn and Omega are both different “forms” thus making 8 different forms of dragons as well. The main part that gets annoying though is how they defeat Shenron. Firstly they use fusion and then don’t win even though they could have in the end. Why? Arbitrary reasons. See in Z it was because Vegito wanted to be fused to save the others. In GT it’s cause they needed to defeat him with the spirit bomb. Just like they did with Buu. Both spirit bombs are also involving a larger amount of people than normal. In Z it was all of earth. Every person. In GT it was the whole universe. That’s not even the final part of how it’s the same. At the end of Z Goku says goodbye to his friends and fucks off. GT does the exact same thing. The show is honestly pretty much a beat for beat of Dragonball and Z. It adds nothing to the universe and what it does add is half assed. Things like Vegeta having an epiphany that Goku is better than him twice at the final end villain or having Goku lose a tournament as a child or stuff like that fill in the cracks of the shit cake that is GT with more shit that doesn’t help or make it better. GT even fails to make what it had that was great good. The use of a new level of SSJ to defeat Baby was also used in the same ways of how Kaioken wasn’t enough to beat Frieza and then SSJ was also attained then. Everything is on a bigger scale while being comparable to the smaller scale before it. The reason I don’t compare this with Super as that even when it takes from earlier seasons of DBZ or anything else it is fresh in comparison. Goku and Vegeta doing their rivalry? not beat for beat. Older characters? They have use. Repeat villains? Frieza is almost a completely new person with his arc in that he now knows he needs to train and actually does and also does some good and even respects Goku. That’s why I don’t compare the two because they are incomparable. GT? It’s pretty much a shitty version of what came before it.

#dragonball #dragon ball #Dragon #ball #GT #Dragonballgt #dragon ball gt #opinion #anime

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gibelwho · 4 years

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Top 5: Directorial Debuts

This Top 5 reviews Directorial Debuts, considering the film that was the opening gambit in a director’s career. The requirements for this list are straightforward - the films considered must be full length and had a theatrical run, so short films (although oftentimes a way into the business for directors) were not counted and neither were made for TV movies. Additionally, this list is considering films that were directed by a single person, so first films with co-director’s were not considered (although some fantastic films fall into this category, such as On the Town or Monty Python and the Holy Grail). The final consideration, although not a firm requirement, was that this first film was an opening artistic achievement that became a launching point for a notable and long career to follow.

Gibelwho Productions Presents Directorial Debuts:

5. Spike Jonze / Being John Malkovich

4. Rob Reiner / This is Spinal Tap

3. Pete Doctor / Monsters, Inc.

2. Alex Garland / Ex Machina

Rob Marshall / Chicago

Spike Jonze / Being John Malkovich (1999): This film was not only the theatrical directorial debut for music video savant Spike Jonze, but was also the first feature penned by the now acclaimed screenwriter Charlie Kaufman. Their appreciation for bizarre storylines and unique artistic sensibilities combined to make a mark on the cinematic landscape of Hollywood and opened the doors for both to careers that continue to tell non-traditional stories. Jonze had to contend with a confounding script, but managed to keep the audiences engaged with the twists and turns, and also tuned into the emotional journeys of his main players, including a representation of real-life actor John Malkovich himself. The film is filled with memorable visual sequences, including an office floor with cramped ceilings, John Malkovich’s point of view shot when ordering bath towels, and the incredible mind-bending sequence when John Malkovich enters the portal into his own mind, encountering a world filled with multiple John Malkovichs.

Rob Reiner / This is Spinal Tap (1984): Not only is Rob Reiner’s first feature a hilarious mixture of conceits with a generous helping of improvisation from comedic actors, but it also launched an entirely new genre - the mockumentary. To keep the documentary feel, Reiner produced a mix of shooting styles, including hand-held cinema-verite style, titles to introduce band members, creating black and white faux television “archival” footage, traditional documentary interview footage, and also capturing onstage theatrics. While most of the humor is in the actor’s improvised lines, the camera is not just silently observing, but also gets into the jokes and elevates the gags with visual commentary. With this film, Reiner transitioned from an actor to an established director and continued into a fabulous career that dipped into a multitude of different genres, producing several films now considered modern classics.

Pete Doctor / Monsters, Inc. (2001): While Toy Story was the original revolutionary release from the new animation studio Pixar (also with a first time director), Monsters, Inc. earns its place on this list because of the genius of Pete Doctor. The film was the fourth feature from Pixar, and the first to be helmed by a director other than John Lasseter. Pixar’s legacy (and now future, as he has assumed the role of Chief Creative Officer at Pixar following Lasseter’s exit for inappropriate behavior), was in safe hands with Doctor, who has consistently produced the Pixar films with the most unique conceits and beloved characters. This all started with his story development and leadership on Monsters, Inc., a film that achieved technical advancement with the realistic rendering of monster Sulley’s fur, but also one of the most breathtaking action sequences Pixar has ever envisioned, involving the hunt for little Boo’s bedroom door amongst a cavalcade of children’s doors, all swirling around madly in the warehouse storage space. Doctor’s first effort at Pixar produced a delightful tale, proving that Pixar could still herald the magic when the reigns were handed to other directors, and setting him up for more delightful classics to be directed.

Alex Garland / Ex Machina (2014): Alex Garland transitioned from a successful screenwriting career to directing with this astonishing piece of art - intellectual, challenging, visually stunning, and with a twisting plot that ensures the audience is on the edge of their seat throughout the film’s runtime. The screenplay was especially tight, as to be expected from a writer of Garland’s quality, but his work behind the camera was also incredibly solid, playing with the various textures of the setting’s remote mansion’s stone, wood, metal, and glass and also with the robot Ava’s combination of machine metal and human flesh. Garland expertly uncoils a new element in each conversation, scene, and session, slowly expanding the audience's understanding of the world and motivations of each character, until an explosive ending that revels in a woman taking control of her own destiny.

Rob Marshall / Chicago (2002): What are the odds that a directorial debut revitalizes the musical genre for a modern audience - and then goes on to win the Academy Award? Rob Marshall’s background as a dancer and choreographer masterly transferred to the filmmaking space - expertly conceiving the musical numbers (and entire film!), using all the tools at a filmmaker's disposal that a live theatrical experience cannot - camera composition such as close ups, crafting pacing through editing cuts, and matching sound to image. In the best tradition of Bob Fosse, newly minted director Rob Marshall set his mark upon the filmmaking landscape and brought back musicals as a viable avenue for the industry - a popular success at both the box office and amongst critical circles. Plus the film is so damn fun, with inspired performances by Renee Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones as the two murderers on death’s row that just want to make it in show business. Each number tops the next and (with the small exception of Richerd Gere’s tepid singing and dancing skills) are executed with such spirit and razzle dazzle. And all that jazz!

Honorable Mentions:

Orson Welles / Citizen Kane (1941): For the movie that is consistently hailed as the greatest cinematic film ever to be made, it is quite amazing that it was created by a first time director who also cast himself as the lead role. After Orson Welles notorious stunt with the radio broadcast of The War of the Worlds (which caused mayhem as many in the public believed the play was in fact news outlets reporting actual happenings), Hollywood courted this untried director, giving him immense freedom inside the usually structured studio system. The result was a film that experimented with cinematography, editing, writing and narrative structure - all which have since been hailed as innovative leaps forward in the conception and construction of filmmaking. While the film at the time was a box office flop, Welles left his indelible mark on the industry after the promotion of his efforts by the celebrated French film critic and auteur theory supporter Andre Bazan in Cahiers du Cinema. The film can be a bit rough to the tastes of modern audiences, including the exaggerated performance style, but its technical achievements are not to be missed.

Frank Darabont / The Shawshank Redemption (1994): Another film that did middling during its initial box office run, but has since achieved the status of cult and critical favorite, came from the creative spirit of Frank Darabont, who adapted a Stephen King novella and, by sticking to his resolution to lead the film, was eventually given the chance to direct the feature. With a tight screenplay, phenomenal performances by Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman, and cinematography by the masterful Roger Deakins - it flourished in the rental market and endured to become one of the highest rated films across many critical lists.

Andrew Niccol / Gattaca (1997): Another writer / new director’s debut contains provocative ideas and powerful imagery paired with striking production design. It is incredible what Andrew Niccol accomplished on a smaller budget, all in service of the story’s dystopian future that feels as though it could be only a few generations away from our own time, where genetics determine a human’s entire future and those who were conceived naturally are condemned to live as a lower caste. The human’s desire to improve their lot in life and explore the universe comes in direct conflict with how science can be used to create fissures in society, enabling human expansion to space, but also limiting a single human’s rights and liberties. Grand ideas and grand design are the drapery for a compelling human story.

Upcoming

Lin-Manuel Miranda / tick, tick...Boom! (TBD): Based on the first stage musical by Jonathan Larson, this will be Lin-Manuel Miranda’s first foray into the directorial seat. Since the debut of the smash hit Hamilton, his career has been expanding by leaps and bounds, but he has taken a studied, measured approach to stepping into the director’s role. Miranda cited one reason for signing on to the Mary Poppins Returns movie as a chance to study under the masterful Rob Marshall, receiving a front row seat to a masterclass from one of the best filmmakers to capture musical theater in the cinematic format. Miranda himself was part of a theatrical production of tick, tick...Boom! earlier in his career, so he is very familiar with the material (although the screenplay will need to significantly expand the set of characters from a modest three to include the many roles that have been cast). Unfortunately, at the time of writing, due to the pandemic, filming has shut down; but once they have resumed and the film has a chance to see the light of day on Netflix, I will be eagerly awaiting one of my most beloved musicals to come to life through Miranda’s nascent directorial vision.

#spike jonze #being john malkovich #rob reiner #this is spinal tap #pete doctor #monsters inc.#alex garland #ex machina #rob marshall #chicago

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redshirtgal · 4 years

Photo

“Space Seed” is one of the few episodes where Sulu is not manning the helm as usual. In his place is Lt. Singh who appears to be every bit as grim-faced as his colleague, Navigator Lt. Hadley. He appears to be every bit as competent as Sulu is as well. It is Lt. Spinelli Kirk orders to lock on the unidentified earth vessel with the tractor beam.

But Lt. Spinelli has a more social side too. Look at this guy, sidling up to Miss Uhura and finagling a way to sit beside her at the dinner in honor of their new “guest,” who just happens to be named Khan Noonien Singh. No relation, of course. And we know what else happens... Khan and his “supermen” take over, the Captain is thrown in a decompression chamber while Spock, McCoy, Scotty, Spinelli, etc. are forced to watch... but then McGivers frees Kirk, who in turn rescues Spock before he is thrown to the same fate, yadda yadda. But then, you get this great shot....

“Hey, they MADE me eat those beans, Spinelli!”

Tsk, tsk Doctor. No wonder Kirk was going to give Spinelli (among others) a commendation before he passed out. He knew Bones had brought his famous Kentucky bourbon beans to the table. But all ends well, although after this incident Lt. Spinelli evidently asks for a transfer since we no longer see him after this episode. There’s only so much an officer should be made to endure. However, we soon learn that Spinelli has a cousin from India who works down in the Auxiliary Control Room.

You can tell Lt. Singh is related to Lt. Spinelli - they both have that very intense look/scowl when either something is wrong or when concentration is needed. In “The Changeling” Lt. Singh doesn’t appear to be that thrilled when Captain Kirk leaves Nomad in his care.

That stare gets REALLY intense as Nomad starts to move around the Auxiliary Control Room. I mean, look at that crease going from one eyebrow over to the other via that deep crease across the nose. Now that’s some kind of scowl he’s got going on there.

Then Singh comes mighty close to getting a Nomad probe... just kidding. Actually, Nomad has just activated itself and Lt. Singh, as requested by his captain, asks it what it needs. But later, when he realizes Nomad is headed in Uhura’s direction, he decides to call Captain Kirk. At least his facial muscles seem to have relaxed. He’s not going to meet the same fate that some of his redshirt buddies will endure later in the episode.

But let’s back up... just who was this actor with the smoking hot stare and that razor sharp jawline? His birth name is Makee Kalaikinipeapal Blaisdell , but he was known by multiple variations of that name. Memory Alpha has him listed as Blaisdel Makee. Yet he also appeared under Makee K. Blaisdel, Blaizdel MaKee, Blaisdel McKee, and 6 other similar credits. And as you may have guessed, he was a native Hawaiian. As the newspaper story above indicates, he graduated from Brigham Young University with a major in theater arts. Before that, he was a star athlete in high school as well as a swimmer and a surfer. But it seemed to take Makee Blaisdell a while to find steady work in acting. Glancing again at the newspaper article, we can see he was working as a salesperson while acting both in community theater and on television.

One of Blaisdell’s first television roles was that of Sgt. Alika in Hawaiian Eye. He appeared in several episodes before moving onto roles on other shows such as I Spy and Star Trek. But sadly, he seemed to be often cast as either a Native American or an Hispanic, such as in the role of Romeo Sangria in the Ironside episode titled “The Sacrifice” or as the soldier seen above at the checkpoint in the pilot episode of Mission Impossible.

Hey, his buddy from “Space Seed,” Eddie Paskey shows up in this episode too. It’s one of the few acting roles Eddie ever had outside of Star Trek.

But does this guy ever smile? Actually, you get the best Makee Blaisdell smiles ever in the following production.

Blaisdell did have one outstanding although not well known film role - that of Johnny Lingo in the short film (23 minutes) of the same name. Financed by the Church of the Latter Day Saints (of which Makee and many Hawaiians are members), it tells the story of a successful trader who also happened to be a highly sought after bachelor and a quite handsome one at that (who oddly also has an intense stare). One day he shows up at the hut of a poor farmer named Moki to bargain over how many cows he will offer in exchange for Moki’s daughter Mahanna. The villagers are amazed because everyone knows....

And that’s Moki saying that about his own daughter. So the villagers begin to debate just how many cows (or how few) Johnny will wind up paying. Because everyone knows he is a shrewd bargainer. The top price for a bride appears to be around about...

And then her friend just has to mention that her husband paid five for her. Oops. But that does establish the top price. Anyway, Moki is concerned he may be lucky to get one cow. And then Johnny Lingo arrives. The villagers all gather outside the tent while Johnny and Moki go inside to bargain. Moki opens with three cows and Johnny counters with...

Whoa... it turns out Johnny Lingo has been in love with Mahana since they were children and is not about to let anyone think she is not worthy, despite what they see when they look at her. So how well does this work out? Pretty well, actually. Before the couple left on their honeymoon, Johnny had ordered a rather ornate hand mirror for a wedding gift which the local trading post owner had to special order. When word spreads that the Lingos have returned, the merchant decides to bring the mirror to their hut. Johnny is quite pleased with the mirror and calls for his wife to come greet their guest. The merchant turns around and .... surprise!

Mahna has been transformed into quite a beauty. Or maybe she was actually a beauty and no one else saw it. This is the end result of Johnny Lingo being willing to build up her self-esteem by treating her as if she were beautiful all along despite what everyone else sees. As terribly dated and possibly culturally insensitive as this movie would be seen today, it does teach a good lesson in a charming way. And Makee Blaisdell turns in a very nice performance as the lead character. If you care to watch it, here is the YouTube link. https://youtu.be/pfahoLfrddU The movie has been remade into a feature length film with a slightly less offensive story but film critics still seem to think the original gets to the point a lot more clearly. And if you bother to look up the new version, its lead is nowhere close to being as handsome as Blaisdell. Plus FINALLY - we get to see that beautiful smile is its fully glory. Unfortunately, this was his crowning achievement in the movies. He managed to land the lead in one last movie based on the Charlie Manson cult murders.

(Poster courtesy of Duffy Films Limited) Many movies tried to cash in on the La Bianca/Tate murders committed by Charles Manson and his followers. The Cult is a soft porn version of the events with Makee Blaisdell (credited as Blaisdell Makee) as Invar who was plainly meant to represent Charles Manson. One third of the movie is devoted to Ivor picking up girls to be part of his family. The few bits of originality in the plot are 1) besides knives, the girls employ whips and medieval torture devices in the murders and 2) while the murders are going on, Ivor is lying inside a coffin in a hearse outside in the driveway and 3) Charlie...er, Invar.. is the way he is because of an earlier incestuous relationship with his mother . Yeah, it’s that bad.

The film is known by a host of other names, including the misleading title The Manson Massacres. Other names included The Love Cult and The Together Girls. It’s known in Germany as Töchter des Satans (Daughters of Satan). Oddly, the only way you can find this gem today is as a German dubbed version with no English subtitles. Yeah, it’s that bad. If you want to see how bad, be my guest. https://youtu.be/aFXiSEI5B6o By the way, take a good look at the above publicity photo. That’s Makee Blaisdell as Ivor on the left, but do you recognize the only other male in this photo? That’s Sean Kenney who played both the disfigured Captain Pike in the two part episode “The Menagerie” and navigator/helmsman Lt. DePaul.

Unfortunately, this seems to have been the end of the road for Makee’s career in the film industry. It’s likely he continued acting in local community theater but there does not seem to be much on him after his last film in 1971. According to several sources he died in Ventura, California at the young age of 57 in 1988. No information can be found on a cause of death.

Two final interesting pieces of Star Trek trivia. First, a piece of background to Makee’s role as Spinelli in “The Changeling.” This episode was taped before the appearance of Chekov. Makee had heard George Takei would be gone for many weeks during the taping of his part in The Green Beret. This led him to believe perhaps he might be hired as Takei’s replacement during that period of time since he had already filled the navigator’s chair before in “Space Seed.”Sadly, he found out that was not meant to be. Walter Koenig was waiting in the wings to appear as Chekov in the next episode to be filmed, “The Apple.” But that didn’t mean Blaisdel had not made a good impression on the production team. Several sources say that Makee was one of the people along with Lawrence Montaigne who was considered as a replacement for Leonard Nimoy in case Nimoy made good on his threat to leave after the second season. And take a look at those faces above. Could even Mr. Spock sustain a stare that intense?

#Star Trek TOS #Singh #Spinelli #Makee Blaisdell #Blaisell Makee

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quicksilversquared · 6 years

Text

A Musical Connection Ch. 4

In a world where soulmate bonds can range from a simple matching mark to timers to shared dreams, of course Adrien would get saddled with an inconvenient bond that keeps him from going out and living life- because whenever his soulmate sings, Adrien has to as well.

But the singing, as inconvenient as it is, presents another opportunity. Can Adrien use it to track down his soulmate?

(Ch 1) (Ch 2) (Ch 3)

(AO3) (FF.net)

"She's singing new songs. Her old show is over," Adrien told Max as soon as he saw the other boy again, a week after they last talked. It had been a long week, with more singing than usual. His soulmate hadn't stuck to just songs from musicals, but there was a definite pattern that had emerged. "Mary Poppins this time."

"Well, that means I can strike off any new shows," Max said, peering down at his spreadsheet. It was currently at two pages long and was completely confusing, but apparently Max could understand it. "We should be able to figure out which company your soulmate is in- or what university program she's in, I guess- and then we can get to one of their shows. Not all actors sing all songs, so that should help us narrow things down a bit to figure out who your soulmate is."

Adrien frowned as he thought about what songs his soulmate had sung. "Wasn't she singing all of the songs in the last musical, though?"

Max blinked and consulted his notes. He didn't let the new information throw him for long. "She may have been playing multiple parts or have been part of the choir."

"And her singing didn't line up very well with the show times," Adrien noted. His soulmate hadn't sung at all during the Paris university show, and only a couple times during the other show times. It was weird, and it made him question Max's methods just a bit.

He wasn't ever going to tell Max that, though. Adrien needed his help too much to risk offending him.

"Perhaps she's an understudy?" Max suggested. "She would have to know all of the songs but wouldn't be singing during the actual show unless she was needed."

Adrien groaned, barely resisting the urge to bang his head against the desk. He'd assumed that his soulmate was one of the actors out on stage. They had based their entire plan around that assumption, and Adrien wasn't sure how that plan would change if she continued to work as an understudy.

He would just have to hope that she would actually perform during the show in Mary Poppins.

"How are things going otherwise?" Max asked. "I just realized that all we ever talk about is your soulmate and while it's certainly a fascinating subject of conversation, I'm sure you have other things going on."

"Not much, since I can't really go out much, in case I start singing." Adrien thought back to the last time he had managed to get together with Nino and Alya, when his soulmate got on such a singing kick that they got booted out of the cafe they had gone to. Nino and Alya had found it hilarious, even joining Adrien in singing as they headed to Nino's family's apartment to spend the rest of the evening, but for Adrien it had been a reminder why he had to limit his outings. "I've had to start thinking about what classes I want to take next semester, which isn't going too well. There are a few things I'll have to attend in person, and there's no way to get out of them."

Max winced. "So we have a bit of a deadline, then? To find your soulmate by the end of the semester?"

"That would be nice, if it's possible." And yet again they had come right back around to the topic of his soulmate connection. It just showed how completely it was influencing his life. "But I've been paying attention to when I sing. It was mostly to plan when I could most likely do photoshoots without being interrupted, but it'll work for picking out what lab sections I take, too."

"To run the lowest risk of interruption," Max filled in, nodding. "Yes, that is quite smart. So what times-?"

It was Adrien's turn to wince. "Well, she doesn't like getting up early, I think," he admitted. Unfortunately, he also wasn't terribly fond of early morning wake-ups, but it was all he had to work with. "So all of the eight o'clock and nine o'clocks, basically."

Max patted him on the arm sympathetically. "Well, at least you'll be up and ready to go for the day?"

Adrien groaned, burying his face in his arms. "Yeah, sure, that would be fine if that was all I had to do- but if my father catches on that I chose those times because my soulmate won't be singing, then he'll have me up to do photoshoots crazy early nearly every day- and can you say sunrise shoot commercials instead of the sunset ones? I don't want to get up that early!"

"We'll find your soulmate," Max promised seriously. "We'll have to wait until her show runs, of course, but I'd say that the chances of us being successful are very high."

That put a grin on Adrien's face. "Well, I hope you're right," he told Max. "So, do you want to play some Mega Strike while you're here?"

"Sure!"

Adrien grinned when he spotted Marinette coming in through the front door of Alya's family's apartment. It had been too long since he had seen his friend, and he was eager to hear about how she was doing with her fashion degree.

"Sorry I've missed so many get-togethers," Marinette told them as she headed for the table. She exchanged hugs with Nino and Alya, and Adrien hopped up to get his own hug. Marinette's voice came out muffled as she talked into his chest. "It's just that work was going late recently."

"But it'll be back to normal for a bit now, right?" Nino asked as Adrien released Marinette from the hug. "You won't be working so late?"

"I won't have to, yeah." Marinette grinned, flopping down into an empty chair. "Which is good, since I have my own stuff I have to do for classes. I have three design sketches I have to clean up for one class, plus an outfit to finish sewing, and some studying for an exam, and an essay on the history of fashion in Russia, all to do before the end of next week."

Adrien let out a low whistle. "That's a lot. How close are you to finishing it all?"

"Well, I'm pretty close to done with the rough sketches, so all I have to do is figure out what I want to change," Marinette started out, pulling out her sketchbook. Adrien leaned forward to see the drawings, and- wow. Marinette had just grown more talented over the years, and while the designs were certainly practical, they also had a certain flair that would set them apart on the street.

He hoped that Marinette would get into men's fashion at some point, because he would love to wear something she designed.

Adrien listened as Marinette explained her designs and the things she was still struggling with, and then showed off her progress on her outfit for her techniques class. The draping was nothing short of gorgeous, and Adrien told her so.

"You'll wear that after it's done and graded, right?" Adrien asked, eyes skimming the lines of the top and skirt in the pictures Marinette showed him. "It'll look amazing on you."

Marinette looked pleased. "You think so?"

"I know so. Those lines will really compliment your figure." Not that much anything that was made well and thoughtfully wouldn't, since Marinette was slim and athletic, if maybe a little on the short side. But the draping would be really flattering, as long as Marinette was making it in her size.

"I'll try to wear it next time we meet up," Marinette promised. "Or the time after that, if my professor takes a while to inspect and grade everything. Sometimes she's really speedy at going through things, and other times it takes forever."

"Okay, enough chatter," Nino cut across before Adrien could say anything else. "Marinette, you promised that we would get to make that chocolate swirl bread, and I know that that takes, like, forever to rise. So let's get started!"

They swarmed into the kitchen and, under Marinette's instruction, started stirring up the sweet bread dough. Adrien kneaded the dough, then got it back into the bowl to rise. Across the kitchen, Nino and Alya started on their dinner, chopping spinach and getting rice started, and Adrien grinned.

Maybe a night in didn't sound that exciting to most people their age, but Adrien was glad that Alya and Nino had agreed to his request that they not go out in public again right away. He had told the two of them right after he arrived that he was well and truly exhausted of the soulmate talk- that was all that he ever seemed to discuss with Max, after all, and whenever he went in for a photoshoot, the first thing that the makeup artists and hair people and photographer asked him about was whether or not his soulmate had been active recently. As long as his soulmate didn't sing throughout the evening, maybe he could have a bit of a break from that for a change.

"So besides being busy, how's the job going, Marinette?" Alya asked after Nino finished telling them about some new music mixes he had done recently. "Are you enjoying it?"

"Most of the time, yeah," Marinette said, She had gotten the bread covered for its first rise and had joined Adrien in making a fruit salad for them to eat. "It's a lot of sewing and a lot of making sure everything stays organized, just like with last year. I've gotten the storage closets in much better shape than they were before, so everything is really easy to find."

"Oh, I remember you complaining about those before," Alya said, nodding. "The previous person wasn't very good at their job, were they?"

"The problem was that they just had random people putting things back before," Marinette explained. "And they would just stick stuff wherever there was space. But now it's easier to find stuff. The only problem is that I can't remember what's in there, just because there's so many different outfits."

Adrien listened, wracking his brain to try to remember if he had ever asked where Marinette worked. He really couldn't remember, and that was embarrassing. Even if he only infrequently saw Marinette now that their schedules seemed to conflict so much, she was one of his best friends and where she worked should have been something that he knew off of the top of his head, especially since she had been at the same place for over a year.

He wasn't going to ask her and admit that he had forgotten. Adrien made a mental note to ask Nino later, when the girls were distracted.

Even without knowing where Marinette worked, Adrien could get a pretty good picture of what she was doing. Somehow she must have managed to skip over a typical coffee-carrying internship to get a job in the sewing room and in the archives storage- or maybe she was working on organizing things behind the scenes in photoshoots, and was keeping the props room organized. He knew that his photographer often complained about the state of the Gabriel prop room, saying that it was impossible to find anything among the mountains of stuff that had accumulated over the years.

(Adrien had looked in there once, when a photoshoot in the building had been delayed due to a wardrobe malfunction and he had to kill some time. Younger him had gotten it into his head that maybe, if he did something about that particular problem, he would actually get some praise from his father.

He had taken one look into the room and the towering mountains of stuff and promptly decided that there was no way he was ever going to go anywhere near it. The shelves looked like they were either going to fall over or cause a landslide at any moment, and the other piles of stuff was no better. There had been signs of a recent topple only a few meters in. How anything found anything in there was beyond him.)

If that was indeed what Marinette had been organizing at her job, if it was anywhere as bad as Gabriel's, then Adrien had to hope that there had been someone keeping an eye on Marinette in case anything fell on her.

When their dinner went in the oven, Marinette returned to the bread to punch it back down, divide it, and roll it out. Adrien joined her, spreading the rounds with the chocolate spread that Marinette had brought with her. He was generous with the chocolate, and the small smile dancing around the corners of Marinette's mouth told him that it hadn't going unnoticed.

Adrien liked chocolate, so sue him. He would just go out on a run as Chat Noir tonight and work it all right back off, so it didn't matter what he ate.

"How is your degree going?" Marinette asked as they started to put the layers together. She adjusted a layer so it would line up more evenly, then gestured for Adrien to cover it in chocolate. "I just realized recently that I haven't heard about that in forever."

"It's going," Adrien said ruefully, spreading a generous amount of chocolate over the dough. "Still online, at the moment. I'm learning interesting stuff, but it's a lot of theories to memorize. Theories and biological processes and chemicals with strange names and..." He let out a long breath. "It's a lot. And since I'm doing everything online at the moment, I've been putting off all of my lab classes and whatnot, which is going to be a pain later." It was going to leave him with a huge load of courses in the later part of his degree, and if he didn't find his soulmate, then everything would have to be done right away in the morning. He was considering taking some courses over the summer just to spread them out a little bit more, but that would depend on how well the next semester went. "But I'm not having any trouble with understanding things, which is nice. It was something I worried about when I started taking the courses online."

"Well, you've always been smart." Marinette grinned over at him, and Adrien relished in the praise. "I'm not surprised that you would be able to adapt to other ways of learning."

"It's not as fun," Adrien admitted. "I hear these two talking about the friends they've made in their classes all the time, but it's hard to meet people online. I'll have a few things where I'll have to go in in-person next semester, though."

"Oh, nice!"

Adrien hummed a sort of agreement, wondering if perhaps Marinette hadn't heard how much trouble his soulmate bond had been giving him as of late. Maybe she thought that it was still like it had been at first, with only a few scattered songs now and then. Alya and Nino must not have told her about how their last get-together was interrupted.

He wasn't going to bring it up, not today. Not when he had had to push his lunch break off for three hours because his soulmate's singing had put them behind schedule and the manager for the photoshoot had insisted that everyone else take their break while he was still singing and unable to eat. Not when he had had enough talking about the bond.

"Dude, put in a little chocolate, will you?" Nino exclaimed, peering over Adrien's shoulder. "You know that you don't have to pile it on for us to taste it, right?"

Adrien grinned. "Yeah, but more chocolate is always good. And I need chocolate, with the marathon fittings I have tomorrow."

"I would have thought that you would want to have less chocolate, then, if you have a fitting!"

Adrien finished spreading on the last layer of the chocolate, then licked the knife off while holding eye contact with an amused Nino. Once it was clean, Adrien placed it back down on the counter. "Nope."

"Let the boy have his chocolate, Nino," Alya ordered jokingly. "And I approve of that amount of chocolate, by the way. It looks fabulous. I can't wait to eat it."

Adrien had to agree.

Despite her worries, Marinette finished her assignments with plenty of time and aced her midterm exam easily. With those out of the way, she threw herself into the second half of the semester and into her work in the theater. She got to meet up with her friends a few times, too, which she enjoyed while she could. She knew that once it got closer to the end of the semester, she would once again find herself with absolutely no free time.

But for now, everything was good, and Marinette could afford to relax a bit as she worked, adding trim to a dress for Mary Poppins. She could hear the rehearsal going on up on the stage from her backstage sewing area, bits of dialogue and the occasional song drifting back.

While the cast definitely weren't ready by any means- after all, the roles had only just been cast and rehearsals had only just started- she could already hear things starting to really improve, lines delivered with more emotion and conviction now that they weren't reading off of the scripts quite as much as they had at the start. Some of the actors were out on stage, while others- the understudies, and the main actors that weren't in the current scene- had split up, working through their scenes out in the hallway and in the nearby classrooms.

The cast weren't the only people there. Several people from other departments had been brought in to work on the special effects that were needed for some of the scenes. They already were hard at work with a projector and a screen, which would replace some of the painted sets for when the scenery had to change faster than the sets could be switched. From what Marinette could tell, they would project from behind the screen and the picture would show up bright so the audience could see it. There were still some bugs, of course- even though they had been brainstorming and working on their special effects even before the show was cast, the timing still had to be perfected and they had to find exactly where the projector had to be for the least distortion and brightest picture.

One of the special effects people had already shown Marinette what they had in store, and it was absolutely amazing, magical and spectacular and enough to entrance any kids that they got in the audience.

Of course, the play was a little less interesting in terms of costumes. There was very little design that Marinette could actually do, since the play took place in a very specific time period and she had to stick to that aesthetic. Marinette had been plagued by visions of having to make endless boring dresses and suits for an entire weekend before she dove into the costume closet and found plenty of outfits that would work perfectly for the play. Some would need altering, others would need mending, and a couple could do with some sprucing up, replacing trim and lace that had faded and discolored over time. She could add a bit of her own flair there, replacing dowdy lace with some that was actually attractive and making some other switches.

Not too much, though. She had to keep in mind how people dressed. This was a play, not a runway show, and most of the characters weren't exactly crazy rich and on the edge of fashion at the time. She could take some liberties with Madam Banks' costume, of course, and with the outfits for the fair scene, but otherwise?

Blah. Good-looking blah, but blah. She was a seamstress for this job more often than she was a designer, but she wasn't going to let that affect her enjoyment of the job.

"Are you already almost done with the outfits, Marinette?" Tikki asked in amazement as she watched Marinette finish attaching the trim and set the dress aside. "Wow! You'll have loads of extra time this time around!"

"Not exactly, Tikki," Marinette said with a laugh. "I need to make Jane and Michael's outfits, and once I assign dresses and suits, I'll have to do little alterations. There might be some drapes for the set, and then I might end up being recruited to help with scenery painting. And there's always other plays going on in the other stages that might need me to do some work on outfits for them."

"Or maybe you'll be doing special effects!" Tikki suggested excitedly. "Because you've made cool stuff like that before, right?"

"I don't even know where I would start with that," Marinette said with a laugh as she hung up the dress and rearranged the rack. "Besides, we have actual engineering students working on those things. No, if I have extra time, then I'll work on getting a good floor map of the storage rooms made so that I won't have to dig through everything in the future to find what I need. But only if other people can't use my help. And if I don't have any schoolwork that needs to get done."

Tikki giggled. "So organization is the last thing on your list?"

"Ugh. I know I did most of the work on that last year, but I'm still sick of it."

The little kwami only giggled harder.

As the director out on stage called for a scene re-start, Marinette returned her attention to the racks of outfits around her and the clipboard that Miss Bella had provided with all of the outfits needed. She started checking outfits off, counting dresses and suits and making notes on those that still needed some work before they could be used. There were enough outfits and then some- enough that in case something happened to one of the outfits, there would be backups.

"And now you label them, right?" Tikki asked as Marinette checked the last of the dresses. "So you know which of the pieces you're going to fit to each performer?"

"Right!" Marinette returned to her desk and started drawing out labels, cross-checking clothing sizes of the actors and actresses with what she had available and starting to scribble names on the labels. "Then I can start pulling people in here for fittings as soon as I get the last of the repairs done. We'll get more permanent labels on later on, ones that won't rip off as easily."

"I can make some!" Tikki volunteered, swooping down and grabbing a short bit of pencil. She paused, looking uncertain. "Uh..."

Marinette giggled. "I think I need to figure all of these out on my own. But could you go grab a few more pieces of paper from the first drawer in my desk? I don't think I have enough here."

While Tikki zipped off to grab more slips of paper, Marinette gathered up the labels she had so far and strapped her pincushion on her wrist, getting up to start putting them on the outfits she had assigned so far. If she could get those set aside, then it would be easier to see what all she had left to work with.

Outside the door, a prerecorded backing track started up and voices floated through the door as the cast started to sing. Marinette perked up and started to sing along as she pinned the labels to dresses and suits hanging on the rack, feeling more cheerful than she had even only moments before.

"Oh, it's a jolly holiday with Mary..."

#Miraculous Ladybug #My writing #A Musical Connection #Adrien Agreste #Marinette Dupain-Cheng

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masonjar828 · 6 years

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So this is in response to an ask me thing I reblogged. Thanks @kylorenpunk for once again making me do them all 😂 but I ain’t no quitter so let’s begin shall we.

1. Selfie; as seen above

2. What would you name your future kids?; If I could have sole control of naming my kids, I’d go with Zephyr for a girl and Red Nalloh for a boy. I always liked the word zephyr and I like the palindrome name that would come from naming my son that.

3. Do I miss anyone?; I recently moved to the west coast and left a lot of close friends behind so I miss each of them every day.

4. What am I looking forward to?; I recently interviewed for a job I’m pretty excited about so I’m really looking forward to hearing new news from them!

5. Is there anyone who can make me smile?; Legit anyone who ever says or does a kind thing to me I will think about from time to time with a little grin.

6. Is it hard for me to get over someone?; I don’t have too much experience needing to do so but I feel like it takes me a normal amount of time to get back on the level after being with someone 😂😅

7. What was my life like last year?; I was a senior in college man...life was a ball of stress and sleep deprevation for months.

8. Have I ever cried from annoyance?; Not really. It honestly takes a lot to make me cry usually. BUT! Show me something with heartwarming feels and a tear or two will always come.

9. Who did I last see in person?; My aunt while we were watching a movie.

10. Am I good at hiding my feelings?; Maybe? I feel like I am but I also know my poker face is garbage so I could be suckish at hiding my feelings too haha.

11. Am I listening to music right now?; Yes! The new Greatest Showman Reimagined album and it’s utterly amazing!

12. What is something I want right now?; I want more than anything rn to hear back from some job somewhere because I’m so in need of a post-college job 😂😅

13. How to I feel right now?; Bit of a headache and fairly tired but overall pretty happy! Listening to the rain outside helps.

14. When was the last time someone of the opposite sex hugged me?; About 20min ago when I said goodnight to my aunt lol.

15. Personality description; I feel the best way to describe my personality is a hyperactive ball of music and useless facts who usually does anything to help my friends, usually at the expense of my sanity at times 😂

16. Have I ever wanted to tell someone something but I didn’t?; There was a time where I desperately wanted to take a risk of telling one of my closest friends just how I truly felt about her but didn’t because I didn’t want to risk ruining the friendship that meant too much to me.

17. Opinion on insecurities; They are a thing everyone experiences and should never be judged on, but I do feel like the only way to truly become better as a person is to actively work to identify and try to work on overcoming or coming to terms with them.

18. Do I miss how things were a year ago?; The constant stress, absolutely not. The friends I got to see daily and never get to see and rarely talk to anymore, all the goddamn time.

19. Have I ever been to New York?; State, yes. City, also yes. Went this past summer to see Hamilton live and my god it was one of the best shows I’ve ever experienced! ☺️

20. Favorite song at the moment?; Hardest question in the world to ask me since I listen to and love so many so songs at once. The one currently stuck in my head is Zac Brown Bands version of From Now On from the Greatest Showman Reimagined soundtrack.

21. Age and birthday; 22 and August 28th

22. Description of crush; No crushes at the current moment but I usually like women a tad shorter than me, with amazing eyes, and a personality that is fun and nerdy so we can make stupid puns and jokes to each other.

23. Fears; Only one real one and it’ll always be snakes. Fuck those venomous and scaly bastards.

24. Height; Like 5’9”-5’10”ish I think?

25. Role model; My dad for sure. He is one of the most loving and caring people I know who can be outright terrifying if he needs to be.

26. Idols; I’m not really the type to idolize anyone tbh 😅 I feel like idolization can be a tad unhealthy.

27. Things I hate; The thing I hate most in the world (apart from snakes, fuck snakes) would have to be the sound of silence (not the song I love the song). Silence weirds me the hell out and I’m not about it.

28. I’ll love you if...; I’ll basically love you if you just show you genuinely care for me and have my best interest at heart. If you do that I’ll basically fight for you til the very end.

29. Favorite films; Star Wars for a series, Airplane! for a individual movie.

30. Favorite tv shows; Brooklynn 99 is my current binge. Others tend to be Star Trek: Next Generation, Cosmos (think this is considered tv), Friends, Avatar, The Last Airbender, etc lol.

31. 3 random facts; About me I’m guessing? I can solve a Rubik’s cube in about 30sec. I can sing the lyrics to literally each and every track from the Hamilton soundtrack. And I can bake recipe for cookies I’ve had friends literally fight over blindfolded if I have the ingredients all lined out first.

32. Are my friends mainly girls or guys?; Girls mostly. Guys tend to annoy the hell out of me most of the time. Even my best friend in the world can annoy the shit out of me fairly easily 😂😅

33. Something I want to learn; How to play literally any instrument. At all. I have wanted to learn for ages but I am just not good with instruments at all.

34. Most embarrassing moment; I tend to repress my embarrassing moments a lot so the first one that comes to mind is when I was talking shit about a professors godawful and stupid teaching method after being given a test he taught us like 30% of and turning around to see him 10ft away and definitely hearing what I said 😐

35. Favorite subject; Any math or chemistry really. #chemicalengineeringlife

36. 3 dreams I want to fulfill; Fairly easy I think. Find success in an area near my family so I can stay close with them after years of being unable to. Find a partner who I can be happy with the rest of my life. And be financially stable to never need to stress about living day to day.

37. Favorite actor/actress; Actor I think Chris Pratt. Actress Anna Kendrick.

38. Favorite comedian; John Mulaney without hesitation.

39. Favorite sport; Tennis. Can’t play it for years and not love it.

40. Favorite memory; Ooh hard one. I think it would have to be the time my family went camping to a place in the middle of Nowhere, Nevada when I was younger and I was able to see each and every star in the sky like I had never been able to before. It made me start to love space and science as a whole looking into that beautiful endless abyss.

41. Favorite book; Hate this because I love reading so so much and it’s like having to choose a favorite child. I think the one I most often reread would have to be The Hobbit though.

42. Favorite song ever; Bohemian Rhapsody I would guess counts the most since it’s the one I will always go back to and enjoy. (Also if you haven’t seen Bohemian Rhapsody the movie yet it’s insanely entertaining and I recommend it hard)

43. Age I get mistaken for; With the beard grown out some age definitely mid-20s, without the beard I’ve been called 18 or younger multiple occasions.

44. How I found out about my idol; See idol question above.

45. What my last text message says; “Goodnight”, sent to a friend I was talking to as they were very close to passing out.

46. Turn ons; If you’re able to engage with me on an intellectual level and be able to just be fun and goofy with me.

47. Turn offs; Trump supporters, Naxi sympathizers, and people who refuse to accept scientific evidence for things like vaccines and climate change.

48. Where I want to be right now; In bed, which luckily I am! 😝

49. Favorite picture of my idol; See idol question above.

50. Starsign; Virgo I believe.

51. Something I’m talented at; Random useless fact storage to be used at bar trivia nights.

52. 5 things that make me happy; Being with family, listening to good music, reading a good book, baking something delicious, and long drives with deep talks with friends.

53. Something worrying me at the moment; Not getting the nice job I interviewed for after the interview going as awesome as it did.

54. Tumblr friends; I have a few friends who have tumblrs like @kylorenpunk, @thepunmaster3000, and @be-inspirational-to-others. Though any mutuals I have I would love to become more friendly with so please feel free to send me a message sometime 😂😋

55. Favorite food; Probably chicken Alfredo I think.

56. Favorite animasl; Dolphins and tortoises 🐬🐢

57. Description of best friend; Tall dude with a short trimmed beard. Musically talented in basically any instrument I can think of. Movie lover to the point of almost insanity. Funny dude who also calls me out on my extremely dumb jokes and puns all the goddamn time.

58. Why I joined tumblr; I was told about it by a friend when I needed to vent a lot and she had me make one. Vented very rarely but enjoyed the weirdness of the site.

59. Ask me anything you want (I’m guessing for who asked me this); @kylorenpunk, why the hell do you make me always do all of these? 😂😅 I don’t mind but lord does it take forever to type all this junk out.

#ask post #lots of answers #selfie #for the first time on this site I think #mutuals #feel free to message me sometime #just not these questions again #😅

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surveys-at-your-service · 6 years

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Survey #177

“i get pretty just to fuck my face up.”

What’s your favorite flavor of ice pop? Strawberry or watermelon. Do you like animal print? What’s your favorite print? Not particularly, but I suppose jaguar. What do you think of foot tattoos? Surprisingly, not a big fan. It's gotta be cute, well-placed, and small. Did your senior class in high school have a class trip? Where did you go? Maybe? I don't remember. What do you normally order at Dunkin Donuts? Chocolate frosted. What do you drink with dinner? It varies. Can be soda, water, milk... Peanuts or sunflower seeds? I don't like either. What is your favorite grocery store to shop at, and how often do you shop for groceries? Sam's Club totally has the best deals, but I don't make the shopping calls here. Who is your favorite character from the last movie you watched? Uhhh the super paranoid lady whose actress is a legend. Where did you have your first kiss? What about your last kiss? His bed; airport. What is the last thing you spoke to your father about? Phone bill. Who do you feel you have the most in common with? Sara. Who in your life causes you the most stress or negative feelings? Myself. Have you ever apologized to someone, but didn’t mean it? I'm sure at some point. What is the one thing that you can’t resist? Reese's, I sometimes cannooooot tell myself no to a Mtn. Dew Voltage, wanting to pet an animal even if it's dangerous, and uhhh I'm sure there's more. Have you ever done another person's homework for money? No. If you could play any piece of music on an instrument, what would it be? Teach me the ending piece from WKM on the piano so I could ruin myself further than just listening to it already does. Have you ever treated someone like they were nothing? I don't believe so. If you could ask 5 questions and get an exact answer, what would you ask? Oh yikes, deep one. Um... 1.) what is the cure for cancer, 2.) cure for Alzheimer's/dementia, 3.) cure for HIV/AIDS, 4.) how can/is it even possible to obtain world peace, and 5.) will I be stable in the future are what come to mind first. Does it frighten you when animals get into fights? I GET VERY SCARED FOR THE ANIMALS. When you were little did you touch just about everything in the store? YUP YUP YUP. Do you ever leave your drinks out in the open at a party? N/A, but I absolutely would not. Ever suffered from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder? Yes. Who is someone you’ll always hate? No one I personally know. How many people do you trust 100 percent? Just one. I would include Mom, but I know she lies about Dad. Do you think you could survive a month of solitary confinement? NO, I really think I'd lose it and kill myself. Do you often start books, yet never finish them? I don't read, but I'd do that if I didn't like it. When was the last time you felt abandoned by someone? Idr. Does the sight of blood gross you out? No. Have you ever gone through a red light? No. Do you fail to stop for stop signs, sometimes? No. What is your favorite eye color in the opposite sex? Blue. When you are sad, do you cheer yourself up, or look to others? It depends, but I usually begin with the former. During which year of your life were you the most unhappy? 2016 can been damned by God themselves. Have you ever seen a bluejay in person? Yes. Have you ever eaten grass/leaves? Probably as a kid. Do you typically like green-colored candies? Yeah! Apple flavor is the bomb.com. Who is the most energetic and happy person you know of? Ryder, my nephew. Who makes you smile the most often? Sara Jane. :') How do you express your happiness? I'm louder, more talkative, goofier. When was the last time you did a good deed? Uhhh idk. It's a tiny thing, but I suppose you could count me getting my old man bub with arthritis up on the bed when he wanted up. What songs make you happy? Lots... Do you like to sing? Sometimes, but I'm not good at it. Where is somewhere that holds fond memories for you? Ummm the little pond behind the community college where we took our first prom photos. That whole day was just extremely magical, and passing it is a severe PTSD trigger so if for whatever reason we're driving past there, Mom goes around it. I did pass it a few months back when I was taking pictures of flowers around the college and I was okay, probably because I didn't even glance at it. What do you think of the gothic stereotype? # A E S T H E T I C Have you ever encountered a black widow? Yup. What scares you, more than anything else? Ending up alone/losing all those I love. Has an animal ever peed on you? Lol yeah... Pet rodents have multiple times when getting them accustomed to being held, a puppy probably has, and Venus (my snake) did once after I held her for like an hour, aha. Couldn't be mad at that angel, she was obviously so comfy. What would make a cool substitute color for the sun? Pink. Is purple a good color for a car? Sure. Do you prefer green or purple/red grapes? Purple; crisper. What is something you like that is sour? Warheads. What was the spiciest thing you’ve ever eaten? Some hot wings at BWW with one of the hottest sauces. When was the last time you had a real deep chat? Idk, I'm sure something with Sara. Who did you last see on webcam? I've no idea. Have you ever discovered something gross in your food at McDonalds? No. What’s your favorite flavor of Ramen? I only like the spicy chicken Yakisoba ones. Have you ever spent the night in jail? No. Name a really popular television show you never got into: Ha, a lot. Game of Thrones, for one, but I'd be willing to give it a second chance via more episodes and a different attitude and actually kinda want to. Sara, add that to our list. Do you listen to any unsigned bands/singers? Who? No, I don't believe so. I need to start listening to my old friend's band, though, because I really want to support them; they work so hard and are very serious about taking their band somewhere. Nova Mortis if you're interested and like heavy metal. What do you find really interesting? THE PARANORMAL, for one. Genetics, psychology, fossils, abandoned buildings and shacks, natural selection and evolution, outer space, differences in languages and cultures, and so much more. Who is your favorite video game character? Spyro! What kind of pictures do you post on Facebook/Instagram/Snapchat most frequently? I like never post pictures, but selfies on FB, then I have two photography Instagrams. Do you remember the first person you felt sexually attracted to? Seriously, Jason. Have you ever been on vacation with a significant other? No. Is there anything on your bucket list that you’re hoping to cross off soon? A lot of things, but. Probably won't be soon as many include travel. Of all of your friends’ significant others, who do you get along with best? And least? Sam's wife Kieley is an absolute doll; least, idk. What would your life be like if you had married your first love? HAHAHAHAHA I REEEEEAAAAALLY DON'T WANT TO PICTURE THAT KNOWING NOW HE DIDN'T/DOESN'T BELIEVE IN ME AND CAN'T COMMUNICATE FOR SHIT. What is the most difficult or time-consuming thing you’ve ever cooked? Would you make it again? N/A Have you ever had a platonic friend that everyone insisted you should be in a relationship with? Girt, hardcore. Eventually did, but we know how that went. Is there anything about a person’s sexual past that might stop you from wanting to date them? Yup: if they've assaulted someone, prostitution is involved, casual flings/one-night stands have happened, being/have been a porn star, cheated before. If someone asked your closest friends/family members what career path might suit you best, what do you think they would say? Like, everyone will answer that question with "vet." Have you ever considered “unplugging”/taking a significant period of time away from technology? lol nope I doubt I'd last a day with no technology. Do you use a photo editor? Lightroom, Photoshop, sometimes PhotoScape. Is your dad overweight? Quite the opposite. Ever been honked at? Yeah. Which do you prefer, doctor or dentist? Dentist; I'm never nervous for them. Name two things you put whipped cream on? I haaaate whipped cream. Texture thing. Favorite thing you’ve ever painted? Two meerkats grooming, done on a huge thing of burlap. What’s your favorite type of sushi? Never tried, never will. Have you ever had an ulcer? No. What’s the name of the most recent baby a friend has had? Scarlett. Have you ever taken medication to help you fall asleep faster? Yup. I had a long insomnia streak where I physically couldn't sleep without Melatonin. What is your current favorite song? I'm hooked on "The Bottom is a Rock" by Mother Mother rn. If you had to move to another country, where would you move? Canada. Do you have a balcony? No. Are you jealous of anyone, even mildly? If so, who? Yeah, my sisters, as well as some real successful friends. Have you ever done a craft you saw in a magazine? No. Have you ever made a recipe you found in a magazine? No. Who is a singer that has given you chills? Celine Dion, Loreena McKennitt, Sebastian Bach, David Draiman, and Amy Lee off the top of my head. What act would you perform in a talent show? I wouldn't, I got nothin'. What area are you the most gifted in, do you think? Um... writing, I guess? Which style of wedding dress is your favorite? BALLGOWN BITCH Do you enjoy editing videos? Ye! Do you enjoy editing photos? Yup. Who do you think is the most attractive actor? I see u Jason Momoa. Have you ever been caught doing something REAL embarrassing by your parents? I don't believe so. Do you believe in reincarnation? No. Do you have any of your neighbors as friends on Facebook? No. When was the last time you thought about sex, or sexual things? Ummm within the past few days probably, at least briefly? Are there any flowers planted outside your house? We have a tall bush that sprouts big, pink flowers, if that counts. Does anyone in your family smoke? Dad. What was the very first election you voted in? I haven't yet. Do you have a drone? No. Are you the type that’s too ashamed to ask for or use directions? No, rather too shy. Were you tired when you woke up this morning? YEAH. I slept like shit and had to get up early for a VR assessment. You overhear two people gossiping about you; what do you do? I feel like I'd say something sarcastic to them. Or be more mature about it and ask why. Or cry. Are you proud of who you are? Eh, only in certain areas... Is your vision good? I can barely read the line below the big "E." So no lmao. Are you a legal adult? Yeah but idk how. Has anyone ever called you a flirt? No. What was the last compliment your received? The assessment lady at VR loved my hair. Do you know any sign language? No. Who was the last person to give you a gift? Sara, on our anniversary. Do you trust the media? HAHAHAHAHAHAHA BITCH NO. If you could kill off one species of animal, which would it be? Can gnats like????? not???????? Idk if they have a single useful function????????? What kind of cookies are your favorite? Chocolate chip. Who’d you last say I love you to? My mom. What’s the most overpaid job in your opinion? I'm not educated on this enough to give you an informed answer. What’s the last thing you wrote down? Working out a math problem during the assessment. When’s the last time you didn’t sleep in your own bed? Over a month ago. When’s the last time you heard a gunshot? Idk. Who’d you get mad at last? Myself. What’s the last thing that annoyed you? Bentley wouldn't listen. When’s the last time you gave someone advice? I think yesterday? Do you think you’re lucky, unlucky, or neither? Neither. Who did you last disappoint? Myself. Do you enjoy learning? Of course!!!! I mean there're subjects I have no interest in and don't enjoy, but learning as a whole is great. People say you learn something new every day, so what did you learn today? Well it was nothing big, but that I could return Miku before she got hurt since Mitsu didn't appreciate a new "buddy." Yes or no: eyebrow piercings? They can look super badass or awful depending on your face and eyebrow thickness imo. When I say The Beatles, what is the first song that comes to mind? "Yellow Submarine" even tho I hate that song???? In your opinion, what is the very worst type of weather? Hot and humid, especially with no breeze. Just no. You can only listen to 1 band for the rest of your life, who do you pick? DON'T MAKE ME. What is something that you had to learn the hard way? DON'T. THINK. A RELATIONSHIP. IS WITHOUT A SINGLE CHANCE. OF. SOMEONE. LEAVING. EVEN. IN THE MOST "SECURE" ONES. When was the last time you felt like your heart was actually breaking? Ahhhh I'm not sure. Either something with Mom or Sara. Who was the last person you cried in front of? Mom. If your ex called you right now, would you answer? I don't have his number, so I wouldn't answer. Who was the last person you had a deep conversation with? Sara. Do you want your tongue pierced? It is. 10/10 recommend for cute factor, but 0/10 for the healing process and pain asjfawiwo. Mine's through the very tip of my tongue and because that area is so sensitive, it was so painful that I became immediately nauseous. Pain didn't entirely vanish for almost two weeks. BUT I have zero regrets, so worth it. Is there something that happened in your past you hate talking about? Yeah. What’s one thing in your life that you wish you could change? Financial position. Have you ever been in a perfect relationship? Ha, don't ever believe those exist. Do you still talk to the person who broke your heart the most? Nope. Have you ever done something sexual that you regret? Ummm I don't believe so. Well, I don't know if I'd take back going all the way or whatever the fuck that was, maybe I would. idk Ever had a person who was obsessed with you so much that it scared you? No. Can you drive, and if you can, do you like it? I'm capable, but I don't enjoy it at all. Have you ever said anything to the last person you kissed that you regret? Yeah, being in a shit mood and/or being impulsive with my words. Do you like french fries? Who the FUCK sayin no to this. Have you ever ate so much you puked? No. Do you care about what others think of your physical appearance? To some degree/in certain aspects. Would you rather eat cookies or brownies? Probs brownies. Have you ever played a drinking game? Which ones? No. Are you good with managing your finances? I don't. Not in that position yet. What is the closest pizza place to your house? Domino's. Do you have any silly nicknames or pet names? Hmmmm no. Are you any good at drawing? Some things. Is there anything unusual about your house? No. Can you maintain a text conversation or do you run out of things to say? I think I'm good at keeping *text* convos going, surprisingly. Do you find it hard to talk to strangers, even people who work in stores? YEAH!!!!!!! Have you ever tasted goat’s milk? No. Did you ever take classes for a musical instrument when you were younger? Yup. Band member all through middle school, stopped after my junior year of HS. Do you snore when you sleep? No, but I talk a loooot. Who is the first person who broke your heart? Dad. Do you know anyone who has fought in a war? Jason's dad was in the Navy. What religion are you? Theist, which basically just entails me believing there's a god/goddess/some sorta beginning deity, but hell if I know anything about them. I make my own guesses. Who is the last person you gave a ride to, and where did you take them? I don't have a license or my own car. What is the last thing you untruthfully denied? Hm. I'm not sure. Have you ever ridden on a real train? No. Name ONE good memory about your last ex? He's absolutely hilarious and I miss hanging out more! Would you consider yourself dishonest? Not gonna bullshit and claim I never am, but in general, no. Do you tend to let people break through your walls easily? HAHA YEAH RIGHT. What are you superstitious about? Nothing. What is the coolest thing you can do? Oh boy, hell if I know. I know from experience people are often surprised how even skittish animals/pets seem to be drawn to me; does that count? Is there anyone you want to hook up with that you haven’t? Not my thing.

#survey #quiz #questions #random

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vileart · 7 years

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Dramaturgy Now: Chris Davis @ Edfringe 2017

One-Man Apocalypse Now is a hilarious and dark adaptation of the iconic war film Apocalypse Now. Chris re-imagines some of cinemas' greatest characters like Marlon Brando as Colonel Kurtz and Dennis Hopper, but also delves into his own personal journey as an artist. While a faithful adaptation, One-Man Apocalypse Now explores the multiple comedic and dramatic layers that exist in the film, and in the re-creation of it.

One-Man Apocalypse Now

by Chris Davis

Sweet Venues - Grassmarket 3 - Venue 18

Aug 3 - 27

What was the inspiration for this performance?

Many years ago I bought the Apocalypse Now soundtrack on vinyl. I was surprised to discover that most of the soundtrack was dialogue from the actual movie. I jokingly suggested to the director Mary Tuomanen, a close friend of mine, that I could re-enact the entire movie but let the soundtrack speak for me.

She said I should do that but only mouth the words that Martin Sheen said. We laughed. The idea was mostly a joke and we both forgot about it. But in my mind I kept coming back to it time and time again, what if I tried to adapt the movie?

Last year I finally decided why not try to do the whole movie in under 60 min and title it One-Man Apocalypse Now. I figured it'd be funny and strange. We abandoned the idea of only using the soundtrack, and I wrote the adaptation late at night in two days during last year's Edinburgh Fringe Festival,

Is performance still a good space for the public discussion of ideas?

Definitely. The live event allows people to

transform and change. If anything it may be the last place you can really change a person's mind. You can get two people of totally disparate views, have them watch a show / participate, and they can become fast friends. Nothing like the online world.

How did you become interested in making performance?

I am an only child raised by a single mother. I say this because I spent a lot of time alone as a child. Honestly I was bored and I needed to entertain myself, and T.V. could only do so much. I started acting in front of mirrors around 5 or 6 just to pass time. Later in life I went to a small college that did not have enough men for a production of Curse of the Starving Class. They cast me. And after making my first entrance on stage, and blanking on all my lines, I was hooked. I thought, maybe I can do this.

Is there any particular approach to the making of the show?

I have done a lot of adaptations in the last few years, and I follow a few rules that some friends made when we first started.

1. Do not use any dialogue from the source material, and if you do it must be a very salient moment (I break this rule about 4 times in OMAN).

2. Modernize the work so it fits to contemporary times.

3. Make it under 60 min. I used these three rules for One-Man Apocalypse Now.

Does the show fit with your usual productions?

Yes. This is the fifth solo show I have brought to Edinburgh. (4 others in 3 years.) Not only did I write it in Edinburgh, but also after 3 years of watching great solo-work in Edinburgh and seeing what audiences are driven to, this is the first show that I feel finally uses all the tricks and aesthetics I've learned from performing in this fringe. At least I hope it does.

What do you hope that the audience will experience?

The idea of performing a movie like Apocalypse Now with one person is silly. That's a given. That being said, the play works on many levels. At times it is a faithful adaptation, but then veers off into my own personal history, while maintaining and living in the world of Apocalypse Now.

Robert Duvall can have a personal moment about his childhood, which is my childhood, but never break character, he is Robert Duvall, after all...

Because the adaptation is under 60 min events happen very quickly and there is something automatically comedic when plot advances rapidly. Audiences have laughed a lot during this show, however underneath the laughter is a sadness that deals with my own life as an artist and my relationship with my father.

Fortunately both of these themes are also found in the actual movie Apocalypse Now, specifically between Martin Sheen and Marlon Brando. I think the audience leaves with the knowledge that our lives ultimately are most successful when we confront ourselves and our relationships, and that all of us are on a journey up some river, where it goes, nobody may ever know...

What strategies did you consider towards shaping this audience experience?

I used all the solo-tricks I saw great shows do here in Edinburgh. There is a lot of 'meta-theater', there is self-referential post-modern whatever you call it, there are little techniques I stole from solo-performers on character introduction, there is minimalism in the set, the story has an arc that follows the movie and also follows a personal arc, I found that Edinburgh audiences and critics gravitated towards work that was both funny and carried an underlying depth that is very important.

I have tried to capture and explore that depth in this work, while keeping a highly comedic pace and having fun.

Pick of the Philadelphia Fringe

For the last three years Chris has been a mainstay of the free festival with solo theater shows Drunk Lion (★★★★★ - TV Bomb), Violence of the Lambs (★★★★★ - The Student Newspaper), Bortle 8(★★★★ "...a tour-de-force." - Three Weeks), and Chris Davis: Chinchilla Coats (★★★★ - Outlier Scotland). In addition to One-Man Apocalypse Now, Chris brings his fringe show The Last Emperor of Mexico to the Free Fringe Festival.

Chris is a writer and performer residing in Philadelphia, PA. Other projects Alias Ellis Mackenzie (Thaddeus Phillips), The Post-Show (Berserker Residents, Edinburgh Fringe).

http://ift.tt/2tU4hIq

Best Actor in Pittsburgh Fringe

Best Plays by a Professional Theater - DC Metro

from the vileblog http://ift.tt/2vgDDhm

#Theatre #Blogger #visual art #Edinburgh Fringe #Experimental Critique

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guardevoir · 6 years

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HEY FOLKS

Star Trek Online is running A Thing right now for a limited time, where creating a new character makes that character special and saves you an epic buttload of grinding (Seriously. The dude I created for the same thing back in 2015 is my fucking hero), AND there’s a new major expansion coming out soon.

So basically, if you want neat free-to-play Star Trek shenanigans, now’s the ideal time to get in on that. Summer event’s coming up in a few weeks, too, so you can also grab a free endgame ship at about the time you’d need it.

And now let me write an entire goddamned essay on why you totally should play this game, and what you can expect. No, it’s not sponsored by anyone (which is a damn shame, really), and afaik STO doesn’t even have a referral program. I’m really just that much of a nerd, who would like to drag some more poor suckers down into interactive Trekkie hell with them.

1) SPACE GOOD Flying around in space is surprisingly fun, feels reasonably intuitive after a while, and looks freaking awesome. They also struck a pretty good balance between 3D-movement and not confusing players. I mean, you’ll probably get lost a few times, but it’s nothing you can’t get used to. Space is also VERY PRETTY, and so are space ships.

^SPAAAAACE! All in all, this isn’t even a particularly favorable screenshot.

2) CHARACTER CREATOR GOOD ... or at least better than 99% of other games. There’s no way to completely avoid TEH BEWBS as a female character, but it’s all a lot less sexualized than usual. Male characters don’t have to be buff or tall either. There’s a HUGE variety of Rubber Forehead Alien Parts to choose from. Only bad thing? Almost all of the hairstyles are kind of fugly and didn’t age well. The team is aware of it, and have implied that they’d like to take care of it should they find the resources.

^Vulcan. Some of the ground textures didn’t age too well, but it still makes one hell of an impression.

3) IS STAR TREK The first time the Voyager and its crew showed up in a mission, I pretty much went to nerd heaven (And then you get to fly next to the Voyager, and as a Romulan with their HUGE-ASS SPACE BIRDS, that is deeply hilarious, because the Voyager is freaking tiny). There are SO MANY cameos from actors. A good part of the DS9 cast is coming back for the next expansion. Leonard Nimoy and Majel Barrett are doing narration and computer voices. And speaking of Nimoy... When Leonard Nimoy died, a HUGE amount of players went to Vulcan to pay their respects and reminisce. Some people go back there every year. He has a statue on Vulcan now. It was one of the most touching things I’ve ever seen in an online community. Granted, the game involves a lot more violence than a Star Trek game probably should, but it’s set in a point in the Star Trek timeline where shit hit the fan multiple times in relatively quick succession, which offers a pretty interesting perspective. The writing has some pretty low points, but is occasionally VERY good. So basically, it’s Star Trek. The Miranda-class ship model is the most gorgeous thing I have ever seen. It’s the ship Feds start off with, and I always haaaaate leaving it behind. There is a T6 endgame version, but getting there takes a while... and it’s technically not my kind of ship.

^I did do some light editing on this, but my point still stands: The Miranda model is an absolute marvel.

4) FREE TO PLAY ... and not even pay-to-win, unless you do PvP... which almost nobody does. You should expect to spend roughly 30$ for a great gaming experience* (wait for a sale, get one good ship and some QOL improvements), which seems like a fair price for what you’re getting, and there’s plenty of opportunity to throw money at Cryptic (which I occasionally do, because what the heck, it’s a great game)... but they’re generally pretty generous with the free stuff (I once got a free endgame ship for not playing the game**, and I’m still laughing about that), and you can technically do everything with free T5-ships, too, just not quite as efficiently or stylishly. There’s also the option of converting free currency to premium currency, so while somebody has to spend money eventually, it doesn’t have to be you.

^The Avenger-Class - a very solid pick for the One Endgame Ship (Fed-side) you’d probably want to get. It’s pretty stylish, too. The Romulan equivalent to this ship - the Morrigu - is excellent, too, as is the Klingon version. Most people just grab the bundle when it’s on sale.

5) FREEDOM The game has a surprisingly decent but linear storyline, but it also affords you a fuckton of freedom. Wanna take some time off and fuck around on Andoria? Sure. Want to go tag fuzzy little rodents for science on New Romulus? Yeah. Wanna spend a day down at Starfleet Academy in San Francisco or stay on your ship and walk around the decks and chill out in your quarters? Yup. Plus, as with most Cryptic games, invisible walls are almost unheard of. If you test the limits of the open-world-ness of STO, you’ll end up in really weird places A LOT... and half the time, there’s an achievement for it. My first captain spent an afternoon awkwardly humping mountains on New Romulus, trying to find the one rock formation that, upon being climbed, would give an achievent I was missing. It looked hilarious, and I could feel the devs cackling through time and space. I once died out-of-combat by walking off a light bridge, because I was CONVINCED there HAD to be an invisible wall there. No such thing. Also, there are huge-ass support beams in Earth Space Dock, which no reasonable player being would ever think to try and climb. I’m not a reasonable player. There are in-universe safety warnings up there, fyi, and the view is pretty sweet.

^Those free-standing beams supporting the walkway? Yeah, those.

6) HELPFUL TIPS Join the Romulan faction for the best story experience and backstory... and arguably some of the prettiest ships. You’ll get to pick a secondary allegiance later on: Rom-Fed and Rom-KDF are both fun in their own ways. Join the Klingons for a truly unique Star Trek experience. They also always need more love and more players. KDF folks tend to be awesome, I swear, but they tend to get the short end of the stick content-wise, because there are so few of them. So, go against the tide and play Klingon! It’s amazing! Join the Federation if you’re boring or are really into canon. I personally think their ships are too clunky to be truly fun to fly, but then again, I’m a die-hard Romulan player. (Seriously, though: Fed is a decent choice, but do play the storylines of the other factions, at least - they’re great, and you’re missing out if you ignore them) Join the subreddit. I know reddit has a terrible reputation around here, but many of the more specialized subreddits are really easy-going and quite welcoming... and the STO subreddit is a lot better moderated and more peaceful (pessimist griping about changes to the game aside, because the community feels VERY STRONGLY about EVERYTHING) than tumblr could ever hope to be.

^That up there is my Morrigu with reputation gear - aka the worst fucking month-long grind of all time. Finally getting that done was so satisfying. (Unfortunately, the Morrigu is very big and very flat and doesn’t screenshot well)

*Or roughly 70$ for all three factions if you’re clever and patient... but if you play all three factions extensively enough to need more than the free stuff, you might want to slow down anyway. **Went on hiatus and eventually got lured back with the promise of a sweet, sweet free T6 ship. I think it was the Valiant...? Full account unlock, too. I (... my wallet, more likely, but hey) felt very appreciated

#guardy talks about stuff #guardy plays sto #long post cw #I've logged over 700 hrs via Steam alone #and probably a hundred or more via the standalone launcher #and I still like it

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maritzaerwin · 4 years

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Print Vs. Digital Resumes: How to Have the Best of Both Worlds?

As a serious job seeker, you’ve likely spent a lot of time creating and polishing your resume. Whether you choose to go with a traditional print, visual presentation, or video format, the goals of any resume are the same: to showcase your skills and suitability for the job and make a memorable impression among a sea of applicants.

That’s why it can be a major bonus to take those goals a step further by creating a resume that combines both physical and digital elements. Think of it as your own Augmented Reality job application — and though it sounds like science fiction, it’s actually super easy to do.

Adding a QR Code is the easiest way to digitize a physical resume. And depending on the type of Code you choose, you can use it to speed up the selection process for hiring managers, simplify networking, and show off your personal brand and unique skill set.

Remind Me Again: Why Are Resumes Important?

According to some estimates, hiring managers to take a mere 7 seconds to screen a resume before deciding whether to shortlist an applicant for a pre-screen interview or not — and sometimes even less. Jobs listings can receive hundreds of applications and only a few are selected for interviews.

Memorable resumes take time to create and can involve hours of rewrites. It requires carefully researching the company and the specific job requirements so that your resume matches the job description. Your writing style, tone, and list of skills should all be adapted to fit the role. It should also have a pleasant visual appearance and a professional tone.

So why put in all this effort into a single resume?

The only way for a company to gauge whether or not you are a good candidate for their job opening is by first looking at your resume. With only seconds to do so, it’s important that you spend the time creating the most eye-catching resume possible.

7 Benefits of a Digitized Resume With QR Codes

In line with the current trend of digitalization, resumes have gone digital as well. Many businesspeople already consider LinkedIn or Xing profiles to be a form of a digital resume.

Nonetheless, hiring managers often need more than the LinkedIn profile to understand a candidate’s skills.

LinkedIn may be a start, but traditional resume formats are still required for many job applications. Whether you choose a traditional text format or go for more modern alternatives, such as visual or infographic, there is a way to easily digitize any type of resume: put a QR Code on it.

Arguably the easiest way to integrate a digital element into your printed document or visual presentation is to include a QR Code that leads to a downloadable PDF. This means that for anything from business cards, paper resumes, Powerpoint, video, or graphic material, you can add a QR Code that links to a more detailed document.

For more complex requirements, such as giving a visual or audio demonstration, providing additional references or linking to a complete online portfolio, the chances are good that, yes, there’s a Code for that. Below are some of the more surprising benefits of using QR Codes on a resume and tips for choosing the right one for the job.

Benefit #1 — Promote Your Digital Savviness

While it won’t make up for sloppy or disorganized writing, having a QR Code on your resume instantly piques a recruiter’s interest because it shows you are tech-savvy and at ease in an increasingly digital world. It also makes it easier for them to find you online and forward your details to themselves or colleagues.

Think about it — in a typical hiring process, the application is often printed out multiple times and shared in its physical form with all the members on the hiring committee.

Not only is this unsustainable if you’re trying to look out for the environment and reduce paper waste, but it’s also often completely unnecessary. With one printed resume and a cleverly designed QR Code, you make it easy for the hiring committee to access and share your resume on their tablet or smartphone.

Benefit #2 — Showcase Your Language Skills or Direct to an Online Video or Portfolio

A big advantage of digital resumes is that you can add to the limited space of print materials by essentially adding a digital button to showcase additional skills. Instead of simply writing “highly proficient in Spanish,” for example, you can add hard evidence of your foreign language knowledge with an MP3 QR Code. When scanned, the Code opens up to an audio file featuring your personal introduction en español.

Alternatively, you can take it a step further by directing the hiring committee to a personal introduction video with a Video QR Code. That way, you can put your best foot forward and they get a first impression of your personality without anyone having to leave their chair.

To provide another example: Artists, photographers or videographers, actors or anyone else whose professional background contains a lot of visual elements can benefit from using an Image Gallery QR Code. This can guide recruiters instantly to an online portfolio, image gallery, professional headshots, or graphic collection. This saves on resources, time and money and is much quicker than sending in a USB stick or CD, typing in a cumbersome URL, or sorting through printed images.

Benefit #3 —stand Out from Other Applicants

While it may save time when candidates are creating their resumes, using run-of-the-mill templates can result in less individualization when a hiring manager reads through them. And although it’s perfectly fine to use professional templates for writing your resume, it’s usually best to view them as a starting point and customize them to fit your needs.

Since QR Codes are still considered a novelty in most western countries (as opposed to China), adding the right one to your resume is a good way to differentiate yourself from other applicants. A QR Code shows you went the extra mile to simplify things for the hiring manager, as well as adding to the overall appearance of the resume with a bit of your own personality.

Benefit #4 — Build a Personal Brand With Customizable Designs

When creating your digital resume, don’t settle for the black-and-white. Make sure you choose a QR code generator that offers a wide variety of customization options you can use to build your personal brand. You can create QR Codes with specific colors, custom frames, and edges, add a logo or other image in the middle, as well as include a CTA (call to action), such as “Scan to view my portfolio” so that hiring managers to understand its purpose.

What’s more, as long as you use a software that offers dynamic, or changeable, QR Codes, you can edit and update your QR Code information without changing its original appearance. This is ideal for candidates who have different resumes per type of job or want to update the resume later on.

Furthermore, the appearance of the screen that loads once the QR Code is scanned (e.g., the landing page) should also be completely customizable.

Here again, you can add colors that match your resume and QR Code, creating a unified look that supports your personal brand. Be sure to write a short introduction, a description of yourself and give an image preview of the PDF.

Benefit #5 — Simplify Networking

QR Codes and digital resumes have a big advantage for candidates when it comes to job fairs, networking meetings and conferences. At these types of events, it’s common for applicants to bring business cards and paper resumes along to apply directly. But for hiring managers, that often means a huge stack of papers to go through later on.

Rather than get lost in this chaos, have the hiring manager scan your QR Code on your business card or resume and send them your digital resume automatically. This way, you know it won’t get lost in the paper stack and you’re one step closer to getting hired than everyone else!

Benefit #6 — Track When & Where the QR Code Was Scanned

Searching for a job sometimes means sending dozens of applications before you find the right fit. You can keep track of which applications had their QR Code scanned with professional scan tracking information, such as from QR-Code-Generator.com. For all Dynamic QR Codes, you can view insights such as total scans, time scanned, and location scanned. This lets you know which types of resumes with QR Codes are having the most success.

Benefit #7 — Easier for Hiring Managers to Access Links

Remember the rule of resume writing, that it should be no more than two pages in length? A big advantage of digital resumes is that you can bypass the limited space of print materials and fit in more information by adding what is essentially a complete online portal. This makes it easier for hiring managers to find you on professional networking sites such as LinkedIn, on social media, or any other URL you might want them to access. If you don’t want them to find a disreputable Facebook profile from someone else with the same name as you, make sure they have the direct link to the correct profile!

Image Source

5 Top Tips and Tricks for a Digitized Resume

Time to get started on your new digitally enhanced resume! We’ve collected a few suggestions to help you leave a lasting impression and land your dream job.

1) Highlight the Most Relevant & Recent Positions First

The purpose of a resume is not to list every single job you’ve ever had (unless you’re just starting out). For many of us, it should be a summary of the most recent jobs that are relevant to the specific job listing. An odd job from ten years ago is most likely just taking up space, while a prominent managerial position should be at the top of the list.

2) Keep Descriptions Brief & Organized

Bullet points are now your best friend. Organize different job descriptions in a brief manner written with active verbs such as “managed xxx responsibility,” and choose a professional font. Times New Roman is considered old school, so search for a font that is easily readable but also helps your resume stand out a bit more.

How QR Codes can help — If you need to attach additional elements to your resumes like a digital portfolio, your LinkedIn profile, or other types of digital files, add a QR Code to make it easy to access without clogging up your resume with long, ugly links.

3) Match Resume Keywords to That of Job Listings

Your descriptions should include only the relevant information for a particular job listing. When you look through a job listing, they often include their own bullet point list of requirements for that particular job. When writing your job descriptions, make sure that your keywords used match theirs for as many of them as possible. In addition, you might want to review your skillset and add the particularly relevant skills as a summary at the top of the resume.

4) Try the Skim Test

Resumes are definitely not the place to write out your life story. Keep them to two pages maximum and make sure they’re easy to read (this is again where bullet points help). To put your resume’s readability to the test, ask another person to skim your resume in 10 seconds and summarize its main points. Were they able to understand the concept of your work history at that time? Then you passed. If not, it’s time to edit further.

5) Customize Styling

It was already mentioned above that there is a downside to templates. While templates can definitely give your resume a great structure and help you get started, you need to spend time customizing it. Otherwise, it will look the same as everyone else’s, which you want to avoid if you want to be hired.

How QR Codes can help — If you’ve opted for a QR Code to make your resume digital, match the QR Code to your chosen colors and style. Use matching colors across your resume and keep your written sections and graphics clear. Make sure your QR Code is the appropriate size and doesn’t detract from other graphic elements on the page.

6) Consider Adding Reviews or References

If you’ve kept a record of reviews or would like to showcase references from previous work, adding them to your resume can increase your likelihood of getting hired. You may even want to add their contact information so that hiring managers can double-check. This is particularly relevant for freelancers or those that work on a project basis with clients, as reviews can convey your level of trustworthiness and be the factor that convinces a new client.

How QR Codes can help — Particularly if you have reviews on your website or other public review sites and are applying for projects, you can also link these with QR Codes. For your own website, you can link to a review page or portfolio, while public review sites like LinkedIn can be linked with a Social Media QR Code that directs the scanner to a custom landing page where they can select their favorite social media channel.

The post Print Vs. Digital Resumes: How to Have the Best of Both Worlds? appeared first on CareerMetis.com.

Print Vs. Digital Resumes: How to Have the Best of Both Worlds? published first on https://skillsireweb.tumblr.com/

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thatsnotcanonpodcasts · 5 years

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Shang Chi, Small-Time Game Devs & Small Horned Dinosaur

Welcome back once again for another episode from the wacky Nerds. This week we review the speculation of the latest offering from Marvel. Discuss issues confronting small game developers and some proposed solutions, and we also have a horny dinosaur. Sound exciting, it is, so strap in and come along for the ride.

So, Marvel have announced the release of a new hero, and it is a Chinese character and speculation has been rife on who it is going to be. There are suggestions of a couple of Chinese heritage actors and everyone seems to be loving it. Even Buck is sounding kind of impressed. There are concerns about the back story of this character, but the hippies will certainly find something to complain about.

Next we have the information about the struggles faced by small game developers trying to generate traction in today’s market place. Independent game developers are producing some interesting content back due to the market place they struggle to survive and remain in the market place. We also ask our resident developer about his experiences and how he dealt with them.

Then we take a moment to learn about a horny dinosaur from China. Oops, sorry, a horned dinosaur from China, called the Auroraceratops, cousin of the Triceratops. Perfect for the individual in the market for a pet that is a little bit different. This beautiful little creature is adorable and a herbivore, with currently eighty examples having been found. We talk about the different possibilities of how it looks and found examples that are very different, including examples that have feathers.

This will be followed by the usual discussions of games we are playing, shout outs, remembrances, birthdays, and events of interest. We have lots of fun and laughter while recording this episode, and we hope you have just as much fun listening to it. As always remember to look after yourselves and look out for each other and stay hydrated.

EPISODE NOTES:

Speculation on Shang Chi - https://www.scmp.com/news/china/society/article/3018696/asian-movie-fans-rave-speculation-marvel-will-cast-chinese-actor

How small-time game devs make it - https://news3lv.com/around-the-web/making-it-as-the-little-guy-how-indie-game-developers-find-success-in-a-crowded-market

Small horned dinosaur from China - https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/07/190712174056.htm

Games currently playing

Buck

– Mafia 3 - https://store.steampowered.com/app/360430/Mafia_III/

Professor

- Crypt of the Necro Dancer - https://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/crypt-of-the-necrodancer-nintendo-switch-edition/

- Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War - Game of the Year Edition - https://store.steampowered.com/app/4570/Warhammer_40000_Dawn_of_War__Game_of_the_Year_Edition/