#I loved when productions enhance these aspects of these characters

[longagoitwastuesday]

Do you have favorite actors for the various roles in "Cyrano de Bergerac"? I would love to hear your thoughts!

I do! I actually rambled a lot about this while I was watching the different productions I could get my hands on (I tagged it "Cyrano de Bergerac" and "I talk too much").

My favorite productions are the one with José Ferrer and the one with Benoit Solès, and those actors make the best Cyranos in my opinion. Though that's probably something in part beyond the actors' choice, their dynamic with their respective Roxane and Christian are the best ones, I think, and I find how Cyrano moves around these two particular characters at the core of a good Cyrano characterisation.

José Ferrer's use of his voice, which is arguably Cyrano's true most characteristic feature, is unmatched imo (although McAvoy does a very good job with this too), and he manauvers very well several of the different aspects of the character, such as his playfulness, his shittiness and longing. By the end of the play you believe he is the most beautiful man on Earth. Cyrano, however, is a bit pathetic (not just in a "pathos" way), and I'd say Ferrer gives off an air full of dignity very fitting of many scenes, but that eats almost entirely this aspect of Cyrano; Benoit Solès manages this very well, while also playing well with some of the other ones, such as the playfulness, the longing, the pain and the despair. Both Ferrer and Solès are hilarious, tender, a bit shitty, vulnerable, playful and sad. Albeit neither of them portrays 100% what Cyrano is, I think both come pretty close in slightly different flavours, and by the end of the play one ends up being terribly fond of them.

My favourite Roxane is Clara Huet in the production with Benoit Solès, but Mala Powers in the 1950 film is a close second. I think they portray wonderfully Roxane's spunk, and her mix of honest playful cheerfulness and her haughtiness, her intelligence and wit, and how much like Cyrano she is.

I've not come to love for now any Christian as much as I've loved Ferrer, Solès, Huet and Powers, but again I think the Christians in the 1950 film and the Solès productions are very very good. I love the dynamic they have with their Cyranos, especially the one Christian and Cyrano have in the 1950 film, enhanced positively by the added scenes (they actually work so well in showing their developing as friends, their deep love and care for each other!). I don't want to expand too much on this to avoid spoilers (beyond the already known 'Christian dies' ones I mean), but some things they do with both these Christians are a thing of genius, and both feel vulnerable, kind, ready to fight and truly desperate at times; I like when they do that.

There's an Italian production which has a Cyrano I truly enjoy as well, despite how they dumbify him more than I usually like my Christians. His mix of anger and deep pain when he discovers Cyrano's feelings for Roxane were so well made, and his physical presence makes you identify who Christian is even before the play starts.

The Podalydès production has two different Christians. The one in the version on youtube isn't bad, but @ride-a-dromedary likes Éric Ruf a lot. I actually adore him based on the clips and gifs she's posted of him, but I haven't been able to find the version with him online, so I can't know. But he truly seems one of the best. Based on what little I've seen, I love his intense gazes and subtle gestures.

I'm not entirely sold on any Le Bret, De Guiche or Ragueneau yet.

I think the German musical has a decent Ragueneau in vibes, and the 1990 French film does as well. I found his poem made song for what I think is a Spanish production (I'm not sure if it's a fan creation based on the Spanish production), and while I've not been able to find that production online, the song works well in vibes too I think.

The German musical's Le Bret in vibes is very good. He encompasses well his deep love and worry for Cyrano while also being done with his shit. They truly feel like close friends. The 1950 film kind of combines Gaston de Castel-Jaloux and Le Bret into one character, which sadly changes Le Bret's dynamic with Cyrano a bit, but that's a very good Le Bret as well. The one in Solès' production is pretty good too. He has my favourite delivery of the scene in which Le Bret chastises Cyrano for risking his life sending letters.

De Guiche is complicated. I think productions often make him too pathetic and laughable or too bad, so bad it makes the last act kind of not make sense. The 1950 one, the 1990 French one, the Kevin Kline one and the Solès one are all good, but I am not passionate for any of them either.

And basically that's it!

#I'm sorry for such a long reply‚ it wasn't my intention. In fact I tried to keep it short but oops #As an extra I'll say that the Japanese film based on Cyrano‚ Life of an Expert Swordsman‚ has a quite good main trio #The Christian character is pretty‚ noble and kind. The Roxane character is smart and well-versed in poetry and a writer in her own right #I loved when productions enhance these aspects of these characters #Kline isn't a bad Cyrano‚ but he is a bit too unbelievable to me. He is too pretty being too old. I already don't like these characters #being old because it makes it lose some sense (they're idiots in part because they are young) but he is so fit for a ~60yo which is like... #Really? The nose? A young man with the same traits is more believable to be self-conscious and think himself unlovable I'd say #I like that Kline comes off at times as a bit cruel and violent and I think it works well with how he is a lot of fun #But at times he is so much fun it ruins the mood‚ although this is a problem of the production in general and of it being based #on Burgess' translation‚ which is something I could ramble about on its own and that makes me kinda mad #I think Depardieu on the other hand falls short on being fun. He tries so hard it isn't funny and it often feels a bit pathetic to me #but not in the way Cyrano is meant to be. On the other hand‚ I felt Depardieu was too full of himself in this film and was too aware #of being he protagonist. The thing about Cyrano is that he doesn't think he is #All in all‚ the more I watch this film the less I like it and his portrayal of Cyrano. I also don't like their Christian and Roxane #(although she isn't as bad as the Klein production of Roxane‚ who is for me among the worst) #I'm not sold at all on the 2021 Roxane either‚ and this Cyrano is so much the dashing tragic hero that he isn't funny #which is one of Cyrano's main characteristics. So I don't like the 2021 Cyrano a lot either. But that's not due to the acting‚ #but because the musical does a poor work at being an adaptation of the play and its characters I'd say #The worst Cyrano out of the ones I've seen is perhaps the one in the Italian production I've mentioned that had a Christian I liked #Their Roxane was awful too but iirc Le Bret was good and Ragueneau was decent #I'm not into the Podalydès Cyrano at all. One of the Cyranos I enjoy the least I must admit. But at least he isn't that Italian one #I conclusion‚ and I always feel kinda sectarian‚ everyone should watch the Benoit Solès version #The José Ferrer film is popular enough not to mention #I talk too much #Cyrano de Bergerac

[cerastes]

Bro any time I think about Valkyria Chronicles I laugh my nipples off, the game is fundamentally flawed gameplaywise but, simultaneously, it's stupidly fun, which is the recipe for any club banger, it has a story that weaves flawlessly between "that's pretty poignant" and "this is some goofy goober shit", it's got the horrors of war but also this fucking pig piece of shit mascot, Hans,

It's an amalgam of white and black without any gray: It exists on extremes, and it never intersects, it's playing two parallel lines and coming to terms with the fact that you'll never see cohesion but that somehow enhances the end product in ways evidently no one intended. You have narrative comparisons with the persecution of jews and, at the same time, the game ends with the bad guy getting German Suplexed.

But I think the funniest aspect of Valkyria Chronicles The First is that the main character is the farthest thing from a war hero they could possibly muster with the expertise of a stoic Japanese swordsmith from the mountains crafting a god-cleaving blade: Welkin.

This Scout From TF2 Put Through An Anime Filter looking mother fucker was chilling in his hometown talking about how much he wanted to be a teacher and showing people his really good sketches of animals because he's also a gifted artist, when suddenly, the Dudes attack, and his reaction to the Dudes attacking is "hang on, I recall my dad hiding his actual service tank in the shed in the back" so he goes and, yeah, his dad's tank from a previous war is just there, chilling, so he takes it for a joy ride while the town baker, Alicia, armed with a rifle and infinite action economy due to the afore mentioned flawed gameplay, sweeps the entire god damn platoon of heavily armed machine gun troops.

The entire game is Welkin using his love for nature and his baker love interest to inflict insane personnel and materiel damage to an entire empire: Welkin and Alicia will come across a heavily fortified bridge, and the dialogue will go something like

"Welkin! They will pulverize us with the heaviest machine guns known to man if we step one foot in that bridge! They practically developed wooden low-orbit bombardment stations! What's the plan!"

"Well... Look at that duck over there. It's flying from the east to the west, right? Well, YOU SEE, that duck is known as a Balkunese Socioduck, and those, during this season, migrate from west to east, and they only exhibit this irregular flight path if a Matrisgel Weasel family is molting by the juniper berry bushes, their favorite food. Matrisgel Weasels only ever molt if they are put under the exact amount of stress caused to them by the sound of distant tank threads on the road, and they are known to hide in sturdy, stable soil."

"Welkin, SIR, what the fuck does this all mean?"

"If we follow the smoldering shrieking of the molting weasels, we'll find a SECRET PATH that will, as always, let us ambush, flank, and surprise our foes! Alicia, you know what to do."

"Ogggeyyyyy"

and then, invariably, no matter the level, thanks to Welkin's impressive knowledge of fauna and flora, and Alicia's literally infinite action economy in a game that wasn't properly beta tested in-house during development, they combine their powers like a piss poor Captain Planet and kill the absolute shit out of an entire Empire's worth of dudes, and it's legitimately one of the most fun and charming games you'll ever touch if you remember to not take it too seriously. I fucking hate Hans but I love this game.

#valkyria chronicles

[aaronpullinteeth]

There are a few people who are confused or shocked that NJPW has given Eddie Kingston a title before AEW have. I get the confusion but I think it comes down to one main aspect above all else. The focus of the company. I don't mean in terms of people, I mean in terms of product.

Let me explain; We all know WWE is a "Sports Entertainment" company first and a wrestling company second. Meaning, WWE focus on the soap opera, over the top characters and storytelling more than the wrestling itself. The wrestling is a device used to deliver the story and characters. NJPW is a wrestling company first. They do tell stories and have over the top characters but the stories and the characters are the device used to enhance the wrestling. But the wrestling is focus, the main attraction of the product. AEW sits somewhere in the middle.

NJPW have put a belt on Eddie as soon as possible because he puts on amazing matches that fit the Japanese style and the audience, regardless of location, love him. AEW is taking a more WWE pace with Eddie. They are doing a slow build because that's a better story to them. Eddie doesn't look like a conventional wrestler. He isn't the poster boy. He said it himself, he's just a street kid. He's AEW's Mick Foley, their late 00s Jeff Hardy, he's their underdog who, on paper, shouldn't be sniffing the title scene. But he is anyway, he's too good to ignore. So he fights and he fights and he fights, staying 100% true to who he is and when he finally gets that title win, it'll feel all the better for it. They have a track record with this sort of story already (Hangman), it's a similar vibe.

So to sum up, New Japan put a belt on Eddie right away because of his wrestling. AEW are taking their time because of his storytelling.

This is all my personal take on it, anyway. I could be wrong but that's who I see it.

#aew #njpw #eddie kingston

[thekatea]

One Day Off

Watched: 2023.06.01

“It’s not about getting better. The next stage just comes...

Then comes another stage, followed by more stages to go”.

I don’t think I have ever watched a show that introduces so many interesting topics to think about in such a light and heartwarming manner. The episodes might have been only 24 minutes long, but the impact lasted for hours, making me reflect on my opinions, thoughts and behaviors.

From the opening till the end - it felt both realistic and strangely eccentric and dream-like. Following Ha Jyung on the trips allowed me to take a moment to just relax and enjoy the views and the scenery. The straightforward and honest personality of our female lead added to the charm. I also appreciated how real her character was - a normal person in normal circumstances, taking a break from the busy and overstimulated world.

The wide range of topics tackled in the show included, but was not limited to: reflecting on our past goals and dreams, the role of an educator, adults' involvement in creating certain paths for children, focusing on their future rather than the current happiness, the disagreements and different perceptions generations have, where we always villainize the other side, not seeing the flaws in our own thinking and behavior.

We were faced with questions like: is striving for success correct, or should we just focus on doing what we love, even if it does not bear fruits? Why is it so hard to show interest towards another person and since when saying “I love you” or even “I like you” becomes so hard, that we found new ways to convey exactly the same emotions?

This is not all, and I’m sure each and every person would focus on different aspects, different scenes and different lines - seeing their own unique version of what’s presented in the drama.

Lee Na Young was such a perfect casting choice to portrayal Ha Kyung. On one hand her character was truly relatable, on the other hand she had her own charms and quirks that not many people possess. Creating a character that is both unique, but also relatable is not an easy job.

The production was stellar. All episodes were filmed, directed and edited in a similar fashion, but at the same time, all had specific tricks that enhanced whatever story was told in each episode. Be it adding more blur and slightly distorted shots to create these dream-like sequences, or using first person perspective to make viewers connect to the scene and potential feelings the characters are experiencing. The soundtrack was the cherry on top, making me want to drop whatever I was doing and set on a trip myself.

Overall, I feel like no matter how much time I would spend on writing this review, it would be impossible for me to truly convey how much I love One Day Off. It's a rare clean 10 for me.

#one day off #kdrama #kdrama review

[differenzeartistiche]

Gavin Creel is 47 today!

It’s my yearly tradition to bring back this old post of ranked performances to celebrate the birthday of this wonderful performer, so here we go! Updated this year with Into the Woods!

Gavin Creel, 16 performances, ranked!

16. Nick Piazza in Fame

This show has some merits, although it’s definitely not one of my favorites. It’s Gavin’s professional debut, and I can forgive him some naïveté in an otherwise competent, beautifully sung performance. His rendition of “I wanna make magic” is lovely.

15. Charles Darnay in A Tale of Two Cities

Ok, so this was a concert performance, so it’s not really fair to compare it to the others, but I’ll just throw it in here. Mainly because it’s such an unusual show for Gavin. It’s something that tries very hard to be on the level of Les Miserables, without much success, and Gavin is not a huge fan of that kind of show. That said, it’s a nicely sung performance of a classic romantic hero role. Nice, nothing more.

14. Jean-Michel in La Cage Aux Folles

Great show, poor but still competent production. The role is easily the most boring in the whole play, but he gets to sing the cute “With Anne on my arm” and he nails it.

13. Troy in American Horror Stories

Oh this was a fun one, Gavin playing outside his comfort zone, far removed from his preferred genre and into an over-the-top, sexy role that is rather unique in his career. I wish the material he had to work with was better, but his scenes with Aaron Tveit were superb.

12. Hollis Bessemer in Bounce

Sadly a lesser show by Sondheim, I still love some aspects of it, and Gavin’s wide-eyed artistically-inclined dreamer is one of them. His big solo “Talent” is the best song of the show and touches me on a very personal level.

11. Matthews in Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure

Gavin voicing a Disney villain! A Disney villain with a secret! A Disney villain with a French accent! Talk about playing against type. There’s something of Kodaly here, and of Lumiere and of Pepé Le Pew. You can tell he had a blast recording this role, and the design is exquisite.

10. Cinderella’s Prince / The Wolf in Into the Woods

This is Gavin at his hammiest, and I’m here fot it. He obviously has loads of fun with the Wolf, oozing sleaziness from every pore, and as the Prince he’s perfectly balanced between superficial, phony and clueless, you can really believe that this candy-colors clothed fool was “raised to be charming, not sincere.”

9. Bill in Eloise at the Plaza / Eloise at Christmastime

Effortlessly hilarious on screen as he is on stage, he goes full-on old-time Hollywood star in the Christmas-themed sequel and I love it. A mix of Dick Powell and Fred Astaire.

8. Dr. Pomatter in Waitress

Sara Bareilles’ little gem of a musical often finds its strength in the absolute realness of its characters, flawed human beings looking for a little sparkle of happiness. Drew Gehling’s Dr. Pomatter was awkward and fun and sad-eyed, but I think Gavin wins infusing the character with tenderness and truly lived-in melancholy. A few weeks in a well-worn musical could be seen as a footnote in a great career, but it’s such a lovely performance, enhanced by the incredible chemistry he has with Bareilles.

7. Bert in Mary Poppins

My introduction to Gavin and since then I’ve come to appreciate him as heir to impossibly gangly male leads like Dick Van Dyke, so this feels like such a natural fit. I find the show a little bloated, but watch him defying gravity in that “walking on air” scene: it’s irresistible.

6. Ugly in Honk!

Having him play the ugly duckling ALSO feels like a natural fit. Gavin’s at his best when he plays lost and confused dreamers, and the fairy tale touch with the surreal setting makes for a wonderful variation on that theme.

5. Steven Kodaly in She Loves Me

Easily the odd man out of the list. The evil, scheming, suave and self-centered Kodaly is a delightful departure from all the romantic leads and clueless buffoons of Gavin’s career. The showstopper “Ilona” brings out all the manipulative nature of the character, a snake that always finds a way out and always gets what he wants. A remarkable performance that makes me want to see him branch out into even more strange territories.

4. Jimmy Smith in Thoroughly Modern Millie

Again with the old-time charm and humor. Millie is a show dominated by women, and Gavin’s male romantic lead manages not to be swallowed whole by them by being so wonderfully easy-going, hilariously aloof and occasionally sassy. It does also help that in “What do I need with love” he has one of the catchiest numbers of the show.

3. Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly!

PUDDING. That alone deserved the Tony. It’s an overwhelmingly funny turn that makes the best of the original, almost vaudevillian nature of the show. So full of tricks and ticks and winks to the audience, deliciously aware of its own absurdity, it’s the kind of scene-stealing performance that not every actor can pull off. And oh my god, has anyone ever sung Jerry Herman’s beautiful tunes so gorgeously? You almost wish he could have sung “Put on your Sunday clothes” in its entirety.

2. Elder Price in The Book of Mormon

Somewhere between the rubber-faced humor of Jim Carrey, the earnest straight man hilarity of Jack Lemmon and the physicality of Dick Van Dyke. A perfect combination that captures the sarcastic, yet disarmingly sweet nature of the show, with its hints of meanness and self-devouring doubt.

1. Claude Hooper Bukowski in Hair

Unquestionably the masterpiece of Gavin’s career. A towering performance that starts with the iconicity of the role and the visuals associated with it and finds the core of Claude’s humanity: a scared, earnest, sometimes self-centered, mostly clueless young man that has to face something so much bigger than himself, something that is so far from the made-up world of fake accents and films in space that he has created for himself and that will eventually consume him. Moments like “Where do I go” and “The Flesh Failures” are moving and brutally honest.

#gavin creel #broadway #into the woods #american horror stories #rapunzel tangled adventures #eloise at christmastime #hair #the book of mormon #waitress

[fearsmagazine]

LORD OF MISRULE - Review

DISTRIBUTOR: Magnet Releasing

SYNOPSIS: Rebecca Holland, along with her husband, Henry, and their 9-year-old daughter, Grace, has now spent a full year in their new home, the small British village of Berrow, where Rebecca is the vicar of the local church. Berrow’s annual four-day autumn festival approaches, a time when villagers dress up in strange costumes and a masked figure known as the Lord of Misrule leads them in casting out the evil spirit Gallowgog. For this year’s reenactment Grace has been chosen to play the Harvest Angel. As dusk falls, Rebecca loses track of Grace in the throng of villagers in a ceremonial field where bonfires burn. Rebecca searches for her in vain, but Grace has disappeared. A desperate search begins and Rebecca uncovers secrets from the town’s dark past. Soon, she must decide how much she is willing to sacrifice to rescue her daughter from the grip of the evil that dwells in Berrow.

REVIEW: The director of “The Devil Inside,” “The Boy,” and “Orphan: First Kill,” comes a haunting folk tale of a secluded community in the British isles that practices a pagan ritual steeped in a horrific truth. The film is an excellent marriage of narrative and visuals to craft a terrifying tale.

I love Tom DeVille’s narrative. He does a superb job of mixing this pagan tale with contemporary themes and adds in a supernatural element with an evil spirit, Gallowgog, to create a horrifying fairy tale that is every parent’s worst nightmare. The Lord of Misrule is a tale that is found in European cultures, with its origin being traced back to the Roman celebration of Saturnalia, that took place from the 17th to 23rd December. In the film, De Ville anchor’s the legend as part of a harvest celebration. He brings in some of the background of how the Catholic Church and the Church of England forced their religion onto the local people and replaced their festivals with Christian ones. Clearly there is a troubled past brewing at the Holland household. Rebecca and Henry are having issues, and when we first meet Grace we get an idea that something is wrong. Is that a result of the darkness that resides in the town or something the family is trying to escape. Rebecca tightly holds onto her beliefs as she is confronted by the town’s grim history; she demonstrates a strength through her logic that leaves the viewer feeling she might survive this encounter. There is just so much here for the sophisticated genre fan to sink their teeth into given everything DeVille weaves into the story.

Filmmaker William Brent Bell, as with several of his previous films but more so here, has an excellent location that permits him the opportunity to create a visually arresting fairy tale nightmare for De Ville’s story to play out in. Add to that excellent productions designs, costume designs, with arresting visual and special effects that make for a hypnotic tale. He does an excellent job of pacing the film as to allow the viewer to feel Rebecca’s becoming disoriented in the horrors that develop without slowing the film down. Brett Detar’s score adds so much to the film. There is a particular moment in the film when the town folks show up with food and start setting up for dinner where the score underpins Rebecca’s mental state and the insanity of everything that is going on around them. Itadds depth to the visuals and enhances the build ups of terror and suspense.

LORD OF MISRULE features an exceptional ensemble cast. There is an aspect to the supporting cast that I found reminiscent of Rosemary Woodhouse’s neighbors in Polanski’s film. I loved actor Ralph Ineson’s performance as Jocelyn Abney. It is grounded more in a character that feels lifted from today’s news feeds like a Brexiteer or Maga Republican. It makes for a new kind of sinister. Evie Templeton does not have much screen time as Grace, but what she delivers is enchanting and horrifying at times. Tuppence Middleton is someone who you’ll know that you’ve seen before, and clearly her performance here demonstrates why she has appeared in so many projects, from episodic shows to big studio features. Her portrayal of Rebecca is an emotional rollercoaster ride that conveys the intense emotional journey of the character as she navigates this cinematic nightmare.

Filmmaker William Brent Bell and screenwriter Tom DeVille, along with a marvelous cast headed by Tuppence Middleton and Ralph Ineson, tell a rich and haunting tale that is as much an epic horror tale as it is social commentary. This spellbinding cinematic tale is a complex visual and narrative experience that feels like it could be based on a bestselling novel from a master of the genre. LORD OF MISRULE is a film worth going to the cinema to experience. Bell and DeVille are an impressive team who I’d welcome an opportunity to take in something they might again unite on.

CAST: Tuppence Middleton, Ralph Ineson, Matt Stokoe, Evie Templeton, Rosalind March, Jane Wood, Luc Ineson, & David Langham. CREW: Director - William Brent Bell; Screenplay - Tom DeVille; Producers - Nik Bower, Deepak Nayar, Jason Newmark, Laurie Cook, William Brent Bell, James Tomlinson, &Alison Brister; Cinematographer - Simon Rowling; Score - Brett Detar; Editor - Andrew Leven; Production Designer - Alison Butler; Costume Designer - Libby Irwin; Hair & Make-up Designer - Haelwyn Adams; SFX Supervisior - Sean Harland; Visual Effects - KOALA FX; Character Design & Illustrator - Zsombor Huszka; Special Effects - Matter FX. OFFICIAL: N.A. FACEBOOK: N.A. TWITTER: N.A. TRAILER: https://youtu.be/j8MqDwHEPxA?si=6WZFLifU_JUXIGBz RELEASE DATE: In theaters and on VOD December 8th, 2023

**Until we can all head back into the theaters our “COVID Reel Value” will be similar to how you rate a film on digital platforms - 👍 (Like), 👌 (It’s just okay), or 👎 (Dislike)

Reviewed by Joseph B Mauceri

#film review #movie review #lord of misrule #Magnet Releasing #william brent bell #Tom DeVille #tuppence middleton #Ralph Ineson #horror #folk tale #demonic #joseph b mauceri #joseph mauceri

[chronicleofleo]

吴磊 奔向旷野 | Cover Story L'Official Hommes

In Nothing But You, Wu Lei who portrays Song Sanchuan, once expressed that tennis is a romantic sport, intricately entwined with the four seasons and weather; so as the wind, sunshine, rain, and snow where each game embodies a unique encounter. As an actor, he experiences the beauty of various seasons while filming: from the vibrant flowers of winter to the delicate snowflakes of summer. Although the seasons may be fictional in the productions, the emotions and moments of each character are genuine and irreplaceable.

Having embarked on his career at the age of 5, Wu Lei has always aspired to become an intelligent actor. He has mentioned in interviews that being referred to as a new actor is a great thing because newcomers carry such enthusiasm and yearning for this profession. After many years in the industry, he dreads the possibility of becoming complacent in his career and, more importantly, developing detrimental acting habits as habits tend to become deeply ingrained over time and make change arduous.

Therefore, he approaches every performance with a fresh perspective and leaves the past behind. As an actor who reflects on the pursuit of wisdom and has dedicated himself unwaveringly for two decades in the acting industry, his love for art and sincerity shine even more brilliantly.

Wu Lei enjoys cycling and horseback riding in his free time, and there are fascinating tales of fans meeting him during his cycling expedition to Xinjiang. In his Fly To The Ground VLOG, he shared with his fans the scenic views of ice glaciers, starry nights, and sunrise journeys in temperatures as frigid as -30°C. Riding horses across the expansive wilderness, he radiates both the unexpected romance of a poet and the youthful vigor of a young man.

In both Amidst a Snowstorm of Love and Nothing But You, Wu Lei portrayed protagonists who also happened to be athletes. The demands and brilliance of competitive sports, combined with years of training, have been lessons that Wu Lei has continuously learned from.

“Sports provide me with the most direct experiences: health and freedom. Of course, sports come with challenges, and conquering these challenges is fascinating. However, it's an entirely different experience for professional athletes; they face peaks and low seasons and can be susceptible to injuries. Therefore, it's crucial to delve into their mindset, techniques, and expressions in competitions. These aspects play a pivotal role in shaping a character and ensuring the audience's ongoing engagement. It's quite a formidable task.”

Upon receiving the script for Nothing But You, Wu Lei felt that the line “We are all hot-blooded idiots;” perfectly encapsulated his character, Song Sanchuan. “Song Sanchuan is someone who approaches his career and relationships with sincerity, boundaries, and balance. I wanted viewers to grasp that immediately. Back then, if people could know at first glance that he's an athlete, that means I've already achieved half of my goal.”

When preparing to portray Song Sanchuan, Wu Lei understood the importance of capturing the essence of tennis; that's why he conducted private studies of Rafael Nadal's matches and playing style as he considered Nadal to be a resilient player. Given Song Sanchuan's late transition from badminton to tennis in his athletic career, marked by numerous setbacks and comebacks, it was evident that the same level of resilience was indispensable.

Then, when working on Amidst A Snowstorm of Love and taking on the role of snooker player Lin Yiyang, Wu Lei conducted in-depth research by studying contemporary snooker players; specifically Ronnie O'Sullivan and Mark Selby, both of whom he regarded as prominent figures in their time. By identifying and incorporating these crucial elements into his character portrayal, Wu Lei aimed to enhance the authenticity and vibrancy of his performance.

Samuel Johnson once stated in The Idler that to fully commit to any endeavor, one must first have a love for life. Wu Lei consistently absorbs the details and stories of the places he films. He shared an anecdote, saying, “During my time in Finland, the weather wasn't exceptionally cold, and I observed many locals enjoying open-air seaside pools. I decided to give it a try, but within seconds, I hastily retreated – it was unbearably cold. However, the most profound memory I have from that experience was witnessing the Northern Lights; it was truly awe-inspiring.”

Despite spending years on set and in the spotlight, it didn't cause him to lose his sensitivity to real-life emotions. At its core, acting involves the study of people, interactions with others, introspection, listening to others' stories, and portraying one's character with authenticity.

While playing the role of Lu Xiaobei in Crossfire, Wu Lei observed a person in an elevator using crutches because of a broken foot. He noticed how they shifted their weight away from the injured foot and incorporated this detail into Lu Xiaobei's character, thereby enhancing the authenticity of his actions.

In the highly acclaimed film Love Like The Galaxy, there is a scene in which Wu Lei's character, Ling Buyi, swiftly grabs his weapon and seamlessly mounts a horse in one fluid motion. Netizens have commented that the young general from the novel, described as "whose silver saddle shines on the white horse and who runs at shooting-star speed," now has a face, bringing Li Bai's poem to life.

This natural ease on camera was the product of rigorous training behind the scenes. While shooting My Country, My Parents, he fell off the horse because he needed to hold the gun and shoot with both hands. Yet, he calmly distanced himself from the horse's hooves and assured the director that he was unharmed. His willingness to remount the horse and continue galloping after such a fall is a testament to his bravery.

The film All Ears, in which Wu Lei plays one of the main characters, is set to be released on September 9th. The movie explores a unique profession – eulogists, with Wen Shan, portrayed by Hu Ge, at the center. It tells the story of someone who straddles the line between the departed and the living, offering comfort to others while seeking warmth within themselves. This marks the third collaboration between Wu Lei and Hu Ge. In the film, Wu Lei takes on the role of Xiao Yin, a character who exists and yet doesn't, encompassing both his individuality and serving as a projection of Wen Shan.

Wu Lei possesses a profound understanding of this role: “Xiao Yin is a truly unique character. I must convey my individuality while also capturing Wen Shan's traits. Xiao Yin and Wen Shan share a conflicting yet harmonious relationship, making this approach to acting innovative and demanding. Each time I delve into understanding these characters and interpreting their stories, it offers me new life experiences. The journey I embark on with these characters provides fresh insights into both myself and life.”

The movie Dwelling By The West Lake completed filming in 2022. It's the second film in director Gu Xiaogang's Shanshui painting series, following Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains, which was the closing film at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival's Critics' Week and earned Gu Xiaogang the Best Director award at the 13th Youth Film Festival.

As a native of Hangzhou, Wu Lei feels a deep connection to his hometown, which significantly influences Gu Xiaogang's work. The English title of the new film is "Dwelling by the West Lake," and its narrative centers around West Lake, a renowned landmark in Hangzhou. In the film, Wu Lei plays a character named Mu Lian, and by combining this with the classic folk tale of "Mu Lian Saving His Mother," one can infer that the movie's theme revolves around redemption between mother and child.

From Wu Lei's perspective, Hangzhou is a very poetic, beautiful city enveloped by greenery and filled with stories. His experiences working with director Gu Xiaogang differ significantly from his previous collaborations. “Collaborating with Director Gu brings a more spontaneous experience. Often, you must depend on instinctive physiological responses to enhance your performance because he excels at crafting an authentic environment for actors. This distinguishes him from other directors I've had the privilege to work with. For instance, Director Fei (Fei Zhenxiang) brings a cheerful demeanor and knows how to ease the tension on set.”

“While filming Love Like The Galaxy, I faced considerable pressure, and it was quite challenging. Director Gu had a knack for helping me relax. He invests significant time in addressing the 'unseen' elements, striving to enrich the emotional journey for both us actors and our characters. His efforts, often behind the camera, have proven immensely valuable, providing me with a fresh and enriching learning experience.”

Nietzsche once said, "What matters is not eternal life, but eternal vitality." Observing Wu Lei is akin to witnessing a vibrant tree. Although he may not have reached the sky yet, he is already flourishing. Bathed in sunlight, the signs of his growth remain hidden beneath the lush foliage, and, like a tree, he continues to firmly anchor himself in the soil while fearlessly growing upward without forsaking his roots.

#leo: interview #leo: genrp

[filmmakersvision]

Chup Review

November 27, 2022

by Inakshi Chandra-Mohanty

Many films have been made on the film industry. Films that show the intricacies of the process through the eyes of an artist integrated within it. But few have shed light on the tumultuous relationship between a filmmaker and a film critic. The two professions are constantly at loggerheads. It’s a never-ending battle due to the refusal of each to understand the job of the other. Chup uses a fictional tale of a serial killer that targets film critics to comment on the filmmaker-critic relation. This psychological thriller relies less on suspense and more on the interesting characters and passionate story that attempts to burn bridges between the opposing professions.

The strongest aspect of Chup is the intrigue. The buildup of how these four characters and two parallel stories will converge. And the way in which the contrasting elements of the multiple narratives lead to an exhilarating climax. This is further enhanced by its passion for the art of cinema. Writer-Director R. Balki made this film out of a pure love for the process of filmmaking. It is an ode to classic cinema with many references to the art behind old school romance. It specifically pays homage to Guru Dutt and his classic film, Kaagaz Ke Phool, and focuses on the relevance of that film in the filmmaker-critic debate.

Though the film is a multi-starrer, Dulquer Salmaan is the star of the show. Elaborating on the details of his performance would reveal too much of the mystery, but his ability to transfer between the different shades of his character is brilliant. While the remaining actors do well in their respective roles, much of the film’s impact rests on his shoulders.

Where Chup falters, is in its investigative suspense. While the police chase of this brutal criminal is smart, the characters pursuing the case have barely any background or emotional depth. Despite having considerable screen space, Sunny Deol has little to do in the film. Though he and Pooja Bhatt do well in the roles written, they have little impact due to the lack of characterization. Their characters are nothing more than props in the investigation.

Despite these minimal flaws, Chup stands out due to the themes it explores, albeit in a jumbled state.

It is natural for a filmmaker to feel disheartened on reading a scathing review. However, it is also important all types of reviews to exist. Otherwise, there will never be a standard for good cinema, filmmakers will be stuck in the land of mediocrity and no one will aspire for any better. 

As a filmmaker and a film critic, someone who has seen both the blood and sweat that goes into the simplest details in a scene and someone who has watched countless films forming strong opinions on them, this divide is something I have witnessed myself. This is a battle I am constantly fighting within. That is why Chup resonates so deeply with me. It is a confused film, one which mirrors my constant confusion between the two worlds. Chup is the product of an artist and a critic, one that cannot differentiate between the two. That’s why the messaging of Chup is so muddled. Because on one hand it puts out valid points in the defense of film criticism and on the other hand romanticizes the life of an artist engulfed by the world of cinema and pained by the words of critics. 

Through its confused state, it is not clear whether Chup has a defined message. The struggle between art and criticism will continue to remain. But somewhere in the midst of all the craziness, there is a sense of peace. A calm that sets in only on the union of the critic and the artist. Chup is at its best when the two are together, making their monotonous moments come to life with their common passion for cinema. And that may be the message that the filmmakers strive to convey. That just like Chup reaches its highest peak through the bonding of the critic and the artist, cinema will reach greater heights through a combined effort. Both the critic and the artist are necessary to make great cinema, and neither works without the other.

#bollywoodreviews #chup #dulquer salmaan #sunny deol #shreya dhanwanthary #pooja bhatt #R Balki #zee5 #bollywood #Hindi films #indian cinema

[jorrmungandr]

Just for Fun: My Extremely Late Take on Durability in Breath of the Wild

I posted this on my cohost account, but I figured I might as well post it here too, since I took the time to write it all up. It's funny, I've been writing there more than I ever have here, it feels more... private, I guess

---

I didn't like it, but it wasn't really a dealbreaker. Just a bit of an annoyance.

What's interesting to me is that it doesn't really bother me in other games, when weapons have a little durability meter. I think the thing that irks me, and many other players, is not necessarily the idea that weapons have durability and can break, but rather that they are disposable.

When my weapon breaks in Dark Souls 2, I just go back to the bonfire and then it's fine. It isn't gone forever. But weapons in Breath of the Wild just shatter into pieces and are gone forever. There's no getting them back, they are designed to be used and then discarded.

It speaks to the fundamentally different nature of the two games. In Dark Souls 2 (and indeed, all Souls games and their ilk) you are incrementally improving your character over time, at the same time as you improve your skills and understanding of the game and its systems. The world is inherently hostile, and you're carving out a niche.

That is what the game is designed around. Slowly digging yourself out of a hole, essentially. This mirrors the idealized vision of the capitalist society, the good ol' "American Dream", where you can succeed by just keepin' at it, year after year. If you work hard, you will make progress and gain resources and skills that will continue to help you succeed more and more.

On the other hand, the disposable weapons of BotW mirror one of the constant frustrations of this capitalist world we live in. It irritates the anxiety of living in a world that obsessed with scarcity. What if your weapon breaks but you're surrounded by combat? That weapon you like so much could disappear forever with the next attack!

In terms of game design, to my view the aim is twofold: enhance the experience of being a scavenger, living in a hostile world (see also: survival crafting games), and making the Master Sword more desirable when you eventually get your hands on it.

Consider: you're playing a version of BotW that doesn't have durability at all. You find a claymore, love it, and never use anything else. Or you get one of those cool glowing ancient weapons, and just use that forever. Master Sword who? I've got this cool techno-sword! Why would I care about some boring old cruciform garbage?

You literally see this in action in Ocarina of Time, where many players end up using the Big Goron Sword or the Megaton Hammer as their primary weapon instead of the Master Sword. But, in BotW, that sword becomes a reliable companion in a world of garbage. It's special because it's well-built, it will always be there when you need it, a shard of divine power that defies the laws that govern the rest of the world. It's patently obvious why you would want it.

The other aspect, enhancing the feel of being a scavenger in a broken world, is aesthetic and mechanical. It encourages the player to use the other tools at their disposal, the sheikah slate abilities, rather than just whacking every stray bokoblin with a sword. It's part of the larger project of shaking the old school players out of their old habits.

Aesthetically, it imparts the idea that this world is harsh, and it's hard to survive. Tying into the old Tolkien stuff, the time of Hylians is passed, they're only barely hanging on. Civilization has collapsed, so the products of civilization are also decayed and worthless.

Now, for the reason I didn't like it.

Part of it is that I live in a capitalist world, and am constantly in that scarcity mindset, so seeing it replicated in a game annoys me. It's a fundamental limitation that cannot be overcome, no matter how far into the game you get, no matter how many hearts and stamina wheels you get. Even the Master Sword breaks and needs to recharge. There's nothing permanent about your combat abilities.

What I often like in games is a tension that gets relieved. In Souls games, to keep our comparison going, this is best embodied by the estus flask. Early on, you only have a few charges, so every time you get hit and have to drink is painful. By the end of the game, your flask is so powerful and you have so many charges that this is no longer a concern. As long as you don't die instantly, you have a chance to recover. The early tension is eased.

In BotW, that tension is never eased. I never feel like I can use that ancient sword, those wizzrobe wands, totally freely. It's the old megalixir effect: what if I need it later!? That's the scarcity thinking coming into play.

The other part of it is that I hate having limitations on the way that I interact with a game's combat systems. I want to use a claymore, but then I always have the anxiety of that claymore breaking and me being out of claymores.

I'll explain this by way of two other games: Nioh 2, which I love, and Dead Cells, which I dislike. In the former, you pick a weapon at the start of the game and you can use only that weapon for the rest of your time with the game, no problem. There is absolutely zero friction, you get to know that sword and you can keep using it forever. Sure, you'll swap out the specific sword, but the controls, the way you interact, is the same, always (if you want! I always end up swapping primary weapons many times in a playthrough).

Meanwhile, in Dead Cells, you get a random weapon at the start of the game, every run. I hate that so much. I don't want a random weapon, I want the one I want! I want to put the time in and develop my skills through practice, and that's tough when I don't always get the opportunity to do so.

This is probably also an anxiety imported from everyday life, where the ability to have time to myself is something I have always preciously guarded. We're all forced to sell our time and energy to make a living, so being left to the sway of arbitrary lack of choice in leisure time is galling.

But, again, specifically only with regards to controls and method of interaction! I loooooooove games like Spelunky, where you are subject to the whims of the RNG in many different ways. But you always have your whip and can jump!

The reason this interaction thing is less of a dealbreaker in Breath of the Wild is simple: there's so much other shit to do. Combat is not a large part of the game, it's mostly about wandering around and taking in the sights. Also, you do always have access to your sheikah slate powers, including remote bombs.

So like... overall, it's not a game system I enjoy, though I do understand why they did it, and think it fits into their overall vision for the game. And, because of the way the game is constructed, it's not a dealbreaker, by any means.

#botw #game design #zelda #Breath of the Wild #weapon durability #pext toast

[joons]

more little mermaid (2023) hot takes

i didn't like "wild, uncharted waters" much. i don't know why he sounded so much like bastille? lol. it wasn't an improvement on "her voice" from the musical. it served a fine purpose, but it was my least favorite new song because it was just there. if it had been given more of a broadway treatment, i would have enjoyed it more, i think. the production of it was just odd. "her voice" also emphasizes the mad, obsessive aspect in the music, with minor key resolutions and repetitive, WAVELIKE instrumentation.

"for the first time" was pretty cute and a definite improvement on "beyond my wildest dreams," which is probably one of my least favorite glenn slater songs (!!!). i like the caribbean flavor, i like ariel expressing doubt and embarrassment and frustration mixed with clear excitement. it does a lot more with "look at this new stuff!" than "beyond my wildest dreams," which is just glenn slater listing things, constantly, forever.

"the scuttlebutt," i am sorry to say, slaps. i don't want to explain how much i've been listening to it, lmao. for that matter, awkwafina as scuttle slapped. scuttle was the best adapted character with an incredible design and a fun update of being a diving bird. but i'm a scuttle girl. i'm a "positoovity" stan. i'm insane.

hated that sebastian wasn't a composer in this. i always liked how sebastian is a snob who kind of only gets involved in ariel's life because she ruined his day and he couldn't keep his mouth shut. it's ALMOST as an equal that triton asks him to keep an eye on ariel. obviously he's a subject and does have to take orders from the king, but it's not like actually his job description to advise the king. that's what makes it funny when he's constantly advising the king, unasked for, and then ends up having to put his money where his mouth is and prove that ariel can be controlled. making him the official adviser is so boring.

i am still trying to get my head around some of the changes to ursula's deal. i feel like they have a huge impact, but the movie doesn't necessarily realize that. something about the way mermaids and humans are seen as genuinely conflicting species in this, the way ursula just assumes that without a sweet, mermaid voice, ariel has no chance of captivating eric... it becomes more of an interspecies conflict instead of a gender war, you know? ursula still has a very low view of men, so i almost feel like taking out the "holds her tongue" verse was a missed opportunity to give her mistaken views more relevance. like she's just scuttling her way into telling ariel how love on the surface works. and that should feed into the "our species have misunderstood each other for so long" thing. that it prevents meaningful relationships between species, between genders, between fathers and daughters. and i feel like that theme could have been enhanced by making ursula a bullshitter who delights in SOWING DISCORD and creating these pressure points of misunderstandings. i got the definite vibe, though it was never directly stated, that ursula is the reason ariel's mom died in this version, that she created all the conflicts in the film. so rejecting her worldview is part of the generational healing process. so the more we can dwell on that worldview and knock it down, the better!

i also missed my ditzy sisters! they were too competent!

#the little mermaid #basically comparing it to the musical #i saw someone saying 'they should have used some of the musical songs glenn slater is a great lyricist' and i was like 'LET'S not go crazy' #glenn slater h8 blog #but he does edge out some of the new songs #Youtube

[tailsrevane]

[webseries review] dimension 20: fantasy high (2018-19)

watching other people play dungeons & dragons pretty much always ends up being more fun than it sounds like it should be. it helps when they’re wildly entertaining people in basically any context, and i was already used to seeing a lot of these faces on various dropout improv shows. it probably should have occurred to me that seeing them play a game i love would fucking rule, actually, but it kinda didn’t and consequently i was just blown away by how great this is.

i was hardly surprised that brennan is such a fantastic dungeon master, but he still actually exceeded my wildest expectations. i absolutely love how he plays all his npcs. he fleshes them out with such loving detail that they contribute at least as much as the pcs. i particularly enjoy how all of the pcs’ parents are either the absolute best or the absolute worst? (or, in gilear’s case, somehow both simultaneously?) he’s also just so, so good at “yes, and”ing all his players’ ridiculous antics.

in addition to their fearless dm, i think i knew 2 of the 6 players from other stuff, but i quickly fell in love with almost all of them and their characters. i feel genuinely invested in all of their stories and their relationships. i want the best for all of them.

obviously the things i’ve already talked about are the most essential aspects of what makes the show so great, but i was also floored by the production values of the show. from what little i’ve seen of other actual-plays, i was expecting either a “theater of the mind” or at most printed maps and miniatures. instead, all of the setpiece battles in this campaign get gorgeously detailed miniatures and physical sets instead of maps. it really enhances the experience so much. as does the music and other little flourishes like hp bars and sound effects.

i am absolutely blown away by how good this series is. i cannot recommend it highly enough. dimension 20 in general has basically become the thing we turn on every night if we don’t have other plans, but i think they nailed it right out of the gates with the first season.

#dimension 20 #d20 #fantasy high #d20 fantasy high #dungeons & dragons #webseries #webseries review

[longagoitwastuesday]

Troisième acte scène XIV, Cyrano de Bergerac (Théâtre 14, mise-en-scène d'Henri Lazarini)

#Cyrano #Roxane #Christian #Cyrano de Bergerac #Edmond Rostand #I talk too much #About books #It was hard to leave out his delivery of 'Dire qu'il croit me faire énormément de peine!' #I love the moment in which Cyrano and Christian stand there just watching the regiment leaving #perhaps as if already contemplating their own deaths #I wasn't convinced by the choice the 1st time I watched this but now I love how they played with the somewhat fun potential of this exchange #and I think I came to love it so due to the detail of the lingering hands reaching for each other in the dark #The way this production dances around the tragic and comedic aspects of the play‚ often dwelling precisely in the line between them‚ #is fantastic in my opinion. I think they usually manage it very well‚ and that it works with Cyrano as a character #even in the narrative inside the narrative ('Et pendant quatorze ans‚ il a joué ce rôle / D'être le vieil ami qui vient pour être drôle!')‚ #as well as working metanarratively with the motifs of the play #I love that they included a sort of goodbye between Roxane and Cyrano as well‚ a goodbye as two people who care deeply about each other #and have a hard time leaving the other. I think the gesture makes a very good job at evoking that feeling of having to say goodbye #to someone well loved‚ uncertain of when you'll be able to see them again but knowing it wouldn't be soon #The fact that it's done in the dark enhances that feeling even more I think #I truly love the detail. It's actually the reason why I saved this fragment

[onlygamemedia]

Pet Store Tycoon Codes January 2024

Are you a fan of Pet Store Tycoon? If so, you're in for a treat! In this blog post, we'll be delving into the world of Pet Store Tycoon Codes. Not only that, but we'll also be discussing how you can unlock even more thrilling elements of the game by using special codes. Throughout January 2024, players can take advantage of these codes to obtain exclusive rewards and benefits - and we're here to show you how. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting, there are plenty of tips and tricks for maximizing your code usage to get the most out of your Pet Store Tycoon experience. So, if you're ready to take your pet store to the next level and stay updated with all the January 2024 promo codes, keep reading to find out everything you need to know.

Introduction to Pet Store Tycoon

Welcome to the exciting world of Pet Store Tycoon, a thrilling simulation game where you can build and manage your very own pet store. In this game, you have the opportunity to create a unique and thriving business, catering to all kinds of adorable animals and their loving owners. As the owner of your pet store, you will be responsible for everything from selecting the perfect location for your shop to managing inventory and keeping your customers happy. Get ready to embark on a fun and challenging adventure that will test your business skills and creativity! One of the most appealing aspects of Pet Store Tycoon is the freedom and flexibility it offers. You have the ability to design and customize every aspect of your pet store, from the layout and decor to the types of pets and products you offer. Whether you prefer a cozy boutique with a focus on specialty breeds or a bustling store with a wide variety of pets and supplies, the choice is yours. With so many options available, you can truly make your pet store a reflection of your own unique style and vision. As you build and expand your pet store empire, you'll have the opportunity to interact with a diverse and colorful cast of characters, including loyal customers, fellow business owners, and helpful employees. You'll need to carefully manage your resources, make strategic decisions, and adapt to the ever-changing needs and demands of your growing business. And with each new challenge and success, you'll earn rewards and unlock even more exciting features and opportunities. So, whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out in the world of business management games, Pet Store Tycoon has something to offer everyone. Get ready to unleash your creativity, test your business savvy, and experience the joy of building your very own pet store from the ground up!

Unlock Exciting Features with Codes

Are you looking to enhance your gaming experience in Pet Store Tycoon? Look no further than using codes to unlock exciting features and rewards. By utilizing codes, players can gain access to exclusive items, pets, and upgrades that will help them progress in the game. One of the best parts about using codes in Pet Store Tycoon is that they can be redeemed for free, without any purchase required. This means that players have the opportunity to access premium content without spending any real money, making it a win-win situation for all. In addition to unlocking new features, using codes can also add an element of surprise and excitement to the game. Players never know what they might receive when they redeem a code, adding an extra layer of fun and anticipation to the gaming experience. So, if you're ready to take your gaming to the next level, be sure to stay updated with the latest codes for Pet Store Tycoon. By doing so, you can unlock a world of exciting features and rewards that will enhance your gameplay and keep you coming back for more.

How to Obtain Pet Store Tycoon Codes

Are you looking to enhance your experience in Pet Store Tycoon by unlocking exclusive features and rewards? One way to do this is by obtaining codes that can be redeemed for various in-game benefits. In this blog post, we will discuss strategies for obtaining Pet Store Tycoon codes to take your gameplay to the next level. One of the most common ways to obtain codes for Pet Store Tycoon is by following the official social media accounts and joining the game's community forums. Developers often release codes as part of promotional events or as a way to reward dedicated players. By staying active on these platforms, you can stay informed about the latest code releases and ensure that you don't miss out on any opportunities. In addition to monitoring official channels, you can also keep an eye out for partnerships and collaborations with other brands or games. Oftentimes, Pet Store Tycoon will team up with other entities to offer special codes that can be redeemed for unique items or bonuses. By being aware of these collaborations, you can gain access to codes that may not be available through traditional channels. Lastly, consider subscribing to newsletters or email notifications from the game developers. Many companies use these platforms to distribute exclusive codes and announcements to their loyal player base. By opting in to these communications, you can ensure that you are always in the loop when it comes to new code releases and limited-time offers.

Benefits of Using Codes in January 2024

As a dedicated player of Pet Store Tycoon, you may already be aware of the potential benefits of using codes in the game. However, with the arrival of January 2024, there are even more exclusive advantages to gain from utilizing the available codes. These benefits can significantly enhance your gaming experience and help you progress faster in the game. One of the key benefits of using codes in January 2024 is the access to exclusive rewards. By redeeming the latest codes, players can unlock special items, pets, and currency that are not available through regular gameplay. These rewards can give you a competitive edge and make your gameplay more enjoyable and rewarding. In addition, utilizing codes in January 2024 can also enhance your gaming experience by providing you with access to new features, items, and pets that are not available to non-code users. This can make the game more interesting and exciting, as you have the opportunity to discover and experience content that other players may not have access to. Furthermore, using codes in January 2024 can be strategic for maximizing progress in the game. With the right codes, players can obtain valuable resources, currency, and items that can be used to improve their pet store, expand their business, and ultimately advance further in the game.

Tips for Maximizing Code Usage

When playing Pet Store Tycoon, it's important to make the most out of the codes available to you. These codes can give you access to exclusive rewards, extra in-game currency, or even unlock exciting features. To maximize your code usage, it's crucial to stay updated with the latest codes and use them strategically. One tip for maximizing code usage is to regularly check the official social media accounts and the game's website for any new promo codes. These codes are often released during special events or holidays, so keeping an eye out for announcements can help you stay ahead of the game. Another tip is to join the community forums or Discord groups dedicated to Pet Store Tycoon. Oftentimes, players share codes they've discovered or discuss strategies for using them effectively. Engaging with the community can open up opportunities to learn about codes you may have missed. Additionally, don't forget to redeem any codes as soon as possible. Some codes have expiration dates or limited uses, so it's best to claim them promptly to avoid missing out on any rewards.

Codes For Pet Store Tycoon (January 2024)

Check the all Roblox Redeem codes! Active codes 70KLIKES - This code credits your account with 250 Coins. Expired Codes PUPPY - This code credits your account with 250 Coins. EPIC - This code credits your account with 250 Coins. FOLLOWER - This code credits your account with 250 Coins. AWESOME - This code credits your account with 250 Coins.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pet Store Tycoon? Pet Store Tycoon is a virtual game where players can run their own pet store, take care of animals, and manage the business aspect of the store. How can players unlock exciting features with codes? By entering specific codes in the game, players can unlock new features, items, or bonuses, enhancing their gameplay experience. Where can I obtain Pet Store Tycoon codes? You can obtain Pet Store Tycoon codes from official social media accounts, game forums, or by participating in in-game events and promotions. What are the benefits of using codes in January 2024? Using codes in January 2024 may provide players with exclusive rewards, discounts on in-game purchases, or access to limited-time content. Are there exclusive rewards for players who use codes? Yes, players who use codes may receive exclusive rewards such as unique pets, decorative items, or in-game currency. Do you have any tips for maximizing code usage in Pet Store Tycoon? To maximize code usage, stay updated with the latest codes, redeem them promptly, and take advantage of special events or promotions tied to the codes. How can I stay updated with January 2024 promo codes? To stay updated with January 2024 promo codes, follow the official social media accounts of Pet Store Tycoon, join the game's community forums, and participate in in-game events and announcements. Roblox main website Read the full article

#PetStoreTycoon #PetStoreTycoonCode #PetStoreTycoonCodes #PetStoreTycoonCodes2023 #PetStoreTycoonCodes2024 #PetStoreTycoonCodesdecember #PetStoreTycoonCodesdecember2023 #PetStoreTycoonCodesjanuary #PetStoreTycoonCodesjanuary2024 #roblox #robloxredeemcode #robloxredeemcode2023 #robloxredeemcode2024 #robloxredeemcodejanuary #robloxredeemcodejanuary2024

[blog-cael3016]

Final Project Proposal

Concept

‘Life looks better on super 8’

This video has a documentary-style with a romantic theme, primarily shot in super 8mm film format and the footage would be creatively edited. The purpose of this short film is to capture romantic moments in life. I am passionate about vlogging because it allows me to document beautiful moments, helping me uncover the beauty and joy in life. This is not a vlog, nor is it a simple life recording. Unlike straightforward documentation, this project focuses on discovering the beautiful moments in life. It's not akin to taking a photo; it captures genuine, unscripted moments. The key idea here is that if you perceive your life as beautiful and filled with love, it will manifest as such. Thus, I aim to find and celebrate the romantic and loving aspects of my life.

Film Techniques

Additive

Rotoscoping

Rotoscoping is the technique of meticulously modifying film footage frame by frame. Animator Max Fleischer introduced it in 1915 to enhance the realism and fluidity of animated characters' movements. Vox. (2020). The trick that made animation realistic [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IS1hCSsmH1E

Subsequent Disney productions, such as Cinderella and Alice in Wonderland, employed a simplified version of the rotoscoping method. Instead of the traditional projection and tracing, animators directly observed live-action scenes to study body movements and facial expressions.

Cinderella (1950), https://www.intofilm.org/films/2770

Stop-motion

Stop motion animation represents an evolved version of the flipbook-style animation, characterized by the process of photographing and physically manipulating objects within the frame. When these frames are played sequentially, it produces the illusion of an object moving on its own. Science Filmmaking Tips. (2018). How to Make Stop Motion Videos [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ppedXZHhE0

Techniques Application

Rotoscoping➕Additive This can help my character in the film showcase various expressions, adding interest to the video. I will incorporate hand-drawn elements into the footage, transforming the character into a hand-drawn cartoon. Additionally, I plan to blend original footage with a silhouette effect. Stop-motion➕ Super 8 I will utilize super 8 to capture the images frame by frame, giving the visuals a less cohesive yet more intriguing look. I'll freeze the movements of the people in the video while maintaining some continuity. This approach can effectively convey our happiness.

Reference

Sam Newton

‘I create cinematic travel videos, and make music. It doesn't make a lot of sense but just roll with it.‘ Newton, S. (2020). If We All Die Tomorrow | SUPER 8 Travel Film [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXszGgAOAfg&t=2s

- color matching

- reality recording

- beautiful moment catching

unknown

capture not only the character's moments but also the empty scenes that evoke a sense of romance Youtube (2020). you.[Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=qXszGgAOAfg&t=2s 

Adam Settle

Settle, A. (2022). Kodak Ektachrome Super 8 Film | Canon 1014 [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=yfzeS1SWCaE

- Transitions

- Quick lens switching

Soundtrack

The soundtrack differs from the example. I'll incorporate lively music to set the tone. The concert aligns with the themes of freedom, travel, and happiness, featuring powerful drum beats. I intend to capture some of the soundtrack while filming with super 8. Additionally, I'll invite my friend, who will appear in the film, to sing songs, even if it's not perfect, as it adds authenticity to the project. There will be a sudden pause in the music to emphasize our authentic sounds, synchronized with specific scenes in the film. I'll also use the guitar to complement the sound and rhythm. The music will have its ups and downs, building to a peak to enhance the film's focus and captivate the audience. My choice of music will enhance the atmosphere, convey my current emotions, and spread a sense of love.

Resource Requirements

- Super 8

- found footage

- scratch/additive tools

- lights

Phase

[kyonoc]

REALLY LONG WALL OF TEXT ABOUT COMICS (?)

I love it when everyone show their love to Stepmother's Marchen 😭😭😭😭

I love the story a little bit too much. The author did their research on designing the dresses; their art is professionally done, they got a good gasp of color theory, anatomy & draw different character's feature really well, even how those dresses with those crinolines would bend/fold (?) when one sit down is accurate too. The original story/plot is really good, the pacing is nice and I havent seen a plot hole so far (or I just love it too much and overlooked it), the character's settings and personalities are well executed.

Everything is neatly taken care of, 11/10 there is absolutely nothing to complain about.

On that note

I don't really like a lot of Manhwa since, well, the market is oversaturated with the same old recycled "villaness fem lead" (those recycled plots are not even executed well), and I'm picky with the artstyle.

From my viewpoint, one of the more special thing about Manhwa/Manhua is the availability of color usage. The colors/palettes could have enhanced the mood so much yet I barely ever see any manhwa artist make use of it, save for Stepmother's and maybe Secret Lady. All I see is just spammed pre-brushes for anything from accessories to dresses and NPCs, using tools and 3D models without any polishing/refining afterwards, and with idk 100 overlay bling bling layer mode on top of the base color.

Now, I'm not complaining if the artist use a lil bit of help to make their life easier, as the deadline of 1 chap per week is extremely unreasonable and unrealistic. What I'm implying is that those elements are just... rushed.

It's so rough, so raw and there is zero effort behind to make it blend together with the art, the artist really slapped in some random layer modes, brushes and 3D models and call it done without any further work. It is, what would the culture in my homeplace call it, "instant noodles" - some rushed commercial product for a quick cash grab, only good for short term entertainment.

Not to mention the plot sometimes (which is 90% of the time) is just straight up ridiculous and unbearable. One can tell the original writer did zero research and put in zero effort to try and make it logically, let alone historical accurate. I have literally read one manhwa where the fem lead is a legitimate queen of a(n) country/empire, but then she got ridiculed by a head maid and got bullied by the others 🤦‍♀️ Regardless of whether or not does the king truly loves her, or if they only married for political benefits, the queen is still THE queen, and she is within every rights of her to (publicly) execute those maids for disrespecting the royal family. I'm not a historical nerd, heck, i barely know anything about political or even how monarchy works, yet I know that much.

Not to mention the other side of Manhwa is mainly BL (I have seen a few GL), then the rest is just overly sexualized woman with super enhanced bewbs and buct for those corny KR guys 🤷‍♀️ Hot take: I can literally pick up two random ass Manhua I know and its artstyle will still be better than half of the Manhwa section: My idol emperor and Song of the sky walkers (I love twin tails/pig tails characters sm aaaaa)

Or maybe I'm an arrogance self righteous b who barely read anything outside of the romance section. I have heard mixed opinions about Solo Leveling, and Wind Breaker artstyle atm is pretty fire ngl, but idk. Was really disappointed by the previous manhwa choices i read so I'm kinda skeptical now. "The way to protect female lead's brother" have some good artstyle but the plot is, uh. "The Villainess Reverse the Hourglass" have some potential too, at least the artstyle is logical to some aspect (Aria's feature growth) and the plot is decent. I dropped midway tho, might revisit later on.

Speaking of, let's bring manga to the discussion too. Now it's 5AM over here, and my eyes is dying to rest, so I suppose i will leave a list of my favs manga here and comeback to elaborate further tmr ig (it's not like I don't enjoy manhwas, This Witch of Mine is a good read, Mother's Contract Marriage seems to be interesting. The market is just over saturated idk sleppy)

Kasane (Matsuura Daruma): i have absolutely nothing to complain. The author carried off the whole plot so well, the storytelling is amazing and I actually grown to be fond of stage acting/drama/theater art because of it too 😭😭😭 I also really liked their artstyle and how the manga's cover/illustration were made. The ending is really satisfying and it's the best solution possible, I wouldnt have it any other way. Izana & Sukeyo's back story were tragic, but it didn't overshadowed nor overpowered their two girl's one, Kasane and Nogiku's story is just as equally as good.

Jibaku Shounen Hanako-kun: The plot thickens so fast I was almost shocked because I half expected it to be a quick read shoujo comedy, rom com sth 😭😭 But the clock keeper arc turned everything upside down. Once I learnt about the existence of Hanako-kun 2014 & Dear my Living Dead, I know I'm in for a good time (i really wanted to play their Half Baked Snowwhite, but sadly EN trans have been taken down and my JP ver won't run bc of technical issues). Iro's writing is splendid and Aida's inking style/artstyle in general is lovely and iconic (lowkey wanted to gatekeep that ngl)

I can see why people may find themselves uncomfortable with some ships like AoiAoi and No6Sumi, but ngl find myself enjoying every ship's dynamic in here. I don't think I'd need to elaborate on HanaYashi because they are so cute together 😭😭😭😭 It's their relationship yet I was the first to be swept off my feet ughhh.

I'd like to think of Akane's obsession over Aoi is purely exaggerated for comedic purposes. Since they are childhood friends, I think they should be comfortable around the other enough to joke like that. Anyhow, chapter 69 broke my heart and then melted it. I find myself relating to Aoi to a surprising degree, always doubting myself of worthy of love and adoration or not, always looking down on others, always keeping my cards close to my heart and refuse to rely on anyone. So Akane's words really touched my heart 😭😭😭 The follow up chapter is heart wrenching too, if HanaNene is my sanity pills for staying a hopeless romantice despite being not very romantic myself, AoiAoi is my relationship goal.

TBHK section is pretty long now so I'll just summarize that I like how No 6 was built, he was never confirmed to understand Sumire's feelings - true to his character, let alone liking her back. I'd like to view them as one sided puppy-crush dynamic rather than a true ship ngl. I like Sumire's character a lot too oeoeoe.

Koko wa ima kara rinri desu: 11/10, something i have reread so many times and still not get bored, learn something new every time. It's a really good story about morals/enthics with touches of philosophy - how moral plays a part in one life, what is right and so what is wrong, from when does benevolent starts, where does malice ends? and such.

It kind of shaped this "all-time neutral viewpoint" of mine later on in life ngl, it helped a lot in making me considering all aspects of a problem before judging, viewing life in a more objective manner.

Kimetsu no Yaiba. I suppose. It's not exceptionally amazing as those mentioned above but is still a good read and decent manga for me. The plot is decent, the character is well executed and well taken care of. Of course, the running joke of "Only female writers/mangaka could portray a nice and accurate female character".

Personally, I do find myself thinking that the ending have a lot of potential - the final moments of the story is the protagonist being coaxed into becoming the next antagonist, and he was pulled back into reality by everyone he have met on the journey. I think it's a really nice way to finalizes the story, to recounts everything Tanjiro have went through and to honor everyone, every sacrifices, that was made. Sadly, Gotouge had to rush the ending because of her personal family issues. I believe if she was given more time the ending could have been really satisfying and more acceptable, but unfortunately that wasn't the case.

The ending should have been just be one of two options:

Either is to kill Tanjiro right there and then, and the story ends. It's also a nice way to end the series, since putting a stop to a demon that has plagued humanity for at least half a millennium should be no easy feat. It shouldn't be something like "omg cool the main character is here, now the problem is automatically solved without needing any efforts or any catch".

The way that chapter 12x (123 I believe?) ended on a cliffhanger made everyone believe Tanjiro is the sacrifice - the catch, the cost, the price - needed to end this nightmare. I'd say it's a fair game, Tanjiro fought on the frontline along with other pillars, yet more than half of said pillars died. Having Tanjiro survive that would mean telling the viewers "main character can't die", or in other words, plot armor. Tanjiro was such a perfect protagonist with logical settings and nice character building before: He is kind and gentle, but his kindness is not a weakness; he is not strong and experienced as the pillars, but his quick thinking and observation/analyzing skills made up to it, enabling him to hold his ground in battles (though you can see him struggle to keep up the pace in the battle and don't instantly have good reflexes); and many other little details I can list but this paragraph is getting really long-

Anyhow, that plot armor completely destroyed everything that Gotouge have built for him, reducing him to the classic tasteless "plot armored buffed MC" all over again.

Or, Gotouge shouldn't have killed Muzan's physically just yet and not have Tanjiro stopped breathing like that. That scene could have changed to Muzan grabbing Tanjiro for some last hope instead of trying to hide from the sun, trying to take over Tanjiro's body and mind, praying he can conquer the sun like Nezuko. Tanjiro would be suffering from the halfway-done transformation whilst fighting for control from Muzan. Everyone is afraid to step in because they don't want to hurt Tanjiro, they have suffered so much sacrifice already, That would be where Nezuko and Kanao's given potion came in, and the scene inside Tanjiro's consciousness finally happen.

I can tell Gotouge have already got plans for the ending beforehand, judging from how Nezuko was mentioned running towards her brother waaay before the last scene, so it's not something that was made up on the spot. I'm just sad it was so poorly executed, and it single-handedly destroyed every previous work and progress that was made for the story.

Boy Abyss. I like how it explored the character's mentality and all, the storyline is good too. I'm just a sucker for any psychological genre stuff rlly

Maria no Danzai maybe, the story is interesting but it's not even half way done so cant judge for sure

Screaming Lessons is pretty good as I remember? i think i will revist it later

KK.

Ps: came back to finish this

Ps2: Woooo boy finally done with my mini thesis

[519magazine]