#Jon was why too but i’m really bad showing emotion in my art

[galadrail]

I had seen a good références on pinterest and needed to do that in super sons so here a little fanart of them

#drawing #digital art #digital fanart #art #damian and jon #jonathan kent #jon and damian #jondami #damian wayne #my art #supersons #let forgot the comic #let them being Happy please #i just love them so much #damian wayne al ghul #Damian touch Jon #they are so cute #Jon was why too but i’m really bad showing emotion in my art #yeah i know that bad but i still Like it #digital drawing #jonathan samuel kent

[elareine]

I had a thought for a prompt: What if Tim had a Costco membership, for getting groceries for Titans Tower right? But what if he got himself a Costco sized tin of those Danish Butter cookies (you know the ones that everyone’s grandma uses the tin for sewing supplies?) for his and Jay’s apartment. Que every single one of their siblings, friends, and Bruce sneaking into their apartment to steal some. Because Alfred DOES NOT let them into the manor for reasons.

That is a hilarious prompt, thank you, love!

(Also thanks to @atasteforsuicidal for explaining what exactly Costco does XD)

It started with Dick. 

Which, okay, not too weird. Tim and Dick were close, and if you asked Jason under torture, he would admit that the two of them managed just fine these days, as well. So Dick was a regular visitor these days, and with his metabolism, him sneaking some cookies from the big tins wasn’t too surprising. 

“Eat something real,” was Jason’s only reply, and then he made Dick some pasta because no one in this family could feed themselves.  

Stephanie was a lot less subtle about it. She marched in with a fervent: “God bless your kitchen” and ate everything in sight. Nothing unusual about that. 

Duke was next, though Jason only retroactively added him to the list. That kid was just charming as fuck, dropping by to ask for some opinions and making such a show of stealing Jason’s quesadillas that Jason never noticed him going for the cookies. 

The problem really started when Damian broke into their kitchen. 

Jason didn’t even figure it out until after it happened, which bugged the hell out of him. Apparently, the hellspawn was willing to do the song-and-dance of slipping through their alarm system but didn’t care about being recorded. Possibly because nothing Damian was all that bad, as far as Jason could see. He went through a few of their assorted tins and boxes, ate a few things, crammed some cookies into his bag, and… left. Maybe the kid had just been hungry on patrol? 

(Jason still replaced all of Tim’s coffee, just in case.) 

Only that wasn’t the last break-in. No, they had nightly visits by two speedsters. Two. Jason was amazed they had any food left at this rate. This was why Tim had become a Costco member; they would be broke otherwise, inheritance or not. Damian broke in again. The second time, he even brought Jon. 

Jason just wished he knew why their kitchen had turned into midnight-snack central. When he complained, Tim just laughed at him.

It didn’t click until Roy fell upon the tin with a cry of delight. “Oh, Jaybird, you bought the good stuff!” 

“They’re just cookies.” 

“Yeah, but the good ones.” For some reason, Roy looked… disappointed with him? “You really don’t appreciate the finer things in life, do you?” 

Normally, Jason would’ve taken that as the starting point for a rant about quality in food and art in these modern times. Right now, he was too busy experiencing an epiphany. “Is that why fucking everyone is trying to burgle our kitchen?” 

Roy patted him on the shoulder sympathetically and inhaled another cookie. 

Sadly, Jason didn’t feel any better about the madness just because he now had an explanation. They still had the nightly visitors, and more daytime ones than ever, too. Even Damian stopped pretending and just invited himself over for lunch. 

One night, Jason switched on the kitchen light, saw Bruce standing there, and switched it right back off. 

“Barbara is now my favorite sibling,” he declared upon returning to the bedroom. 

Tim didn’t look up from whatever he was typing. “Does she really count as a sibling? She does have a dad.” 

“Half sibling, half future sister-in-law, then.” Jason would feel more awkward about that sentence if he wasn’t literally sliding under a blanket with Tim. In their bed. In their apartment. Sooo. No stones to throw here. “Anyway. She’s my favorite.” 

“Any specific reason?” 

“She didn’t yet try to steal those fucking cookies.” 

The typing stopped. 

Jason groaned. “…seriously?” 

He must’ve sounded truly pathetic because Tim actually put the laptop on the nightstand and scooted his way over into Jason’s arms. “She stopped by when you were out with the outlaws yesterday.” 

“And there goes my last hope,” Jason sighed. 

Tim showed his sympathy by cuddling in closer, which Jason appreciated, but he wasn’t done with this whole thing yet. 

“It tells me I need to start baking again,” he grumbled into Tim’s hair. “If ya’ll are going that crazy for some fucking butter cookies, you should try my mom’s recipe.” 

“Yeah, but if you make them, Alfred will love them.” 

“What does Alfred have to do with this?” 

“He forbade those cookie tins from the manor years ago. No one wants to cross him, but… the lure of the forbidden…” 

“So we’re in some sort of reverse psychology experiment?” Jason chuckled. That. That actually explained a lot. Except—“Wait. If you knew—why did you buy it in the first place?” 

Tim mumbled something unintelligible. When Jason poked him, he raised his voice, but not by much. “It’s kinda nice, isn’t it?” 

“Oh.” Jason cupped Tim’s jaw, gently tipped his head so they were looking at each other. “Sweetheart, you know they would visit with or without the cookies, right?” 

Tim just looked at him. “Kinda?”

They had done this for long enough that Jason just asked: “You want logical or emotional reassurance?” 

And Tim knew he could reply: “…both.” 

“Literally every single one of them has a trust fund. They can afford all the Danish butter cookies in the world. Dames could just break into Cosco—and you know he would, cause it’s a corporation, so ‘stealing is ethical.’” Jason allowed that to sink in. Then he leaned forward and pressed a kiss to Tim’s temple. “And they love you very much.” Just like I do. 

When he thought that Tim got it, he nodded and let go, allowing his boyfriend to hide his face in Jason’s neck again. That turned out to be a mistake, for Tim chose that moment to strike: “You know the same goes for you, too?” 

Jason took a moment to blink. “…Nah. It’s definitely the cookies.” 

“Sure, Jay.” Tim pressed a kiss to the side of his neck. “Keep telling yourself that.” 

Jason hummed. A peaceful quiet settled over their bedroom. 

He waited until Tim was just settled in, his breathing starting to slow down, to say: “By the way, Bruce is in our kitchen.” 

“I’m gonna pretend I didn’t hear that.” 

#elareine writes #batfamily #jaytim

[red-hood-redemption]

SO I know I’m like, super late to the party, but I finally got my hands on Robin 2021 and there is literally no one for me to talk to about it so now I’m just screaming my thoughts into the void ✌

First off, before i even bought the first two issues, I read through a lot of other people’s opinions on it to kinda get an idea of where it was going characterization-wise for Damian, and because of all the mixed reactions, I figured I should just read it myself and find out. Now I am the FURTHEST thing from a comic book authority, so like, this is truly just an opinion piece but if it convinces anyone to give the run a chance, then yay!!! Honestly, I’m really glad I gave it a shot because I’m genuinely hooked! I’m actually excited about this series (and it scares me lol)!!!

I'm gonna separate my thoughts into two sections: characters, and story, mainly for my own ease, but also if anyone cares more about one thing or the other it's easier to distinguish. But,  the line is a little blurry so if I end up getting a little too much into the characterization in the story section, just bear with me lmao. OH and I'm going to try and keep this as un-spoilery as possible but we'll just have to see. SOOOOOOOO

Characters

I think it goes without saying that Melnikov's art is absolutely gorgeous, and really does show how much Damian has grown up. It makes me want to sob its so beautiful, everyone is so pretty, even the guy that looks like a washed up, high as fuck Tony Stark lmao. But moving on to the actual characters,

Rose Wilson

I honestly don't know too much about Rose, I haven't read enough about her to say anything about her characterization and how it compares to her other appearances, or whether or not she is OOC, but so far, I'm enjoying her taking up the "big sis" role, like, immediately lmao.

I don't know how much I trust her yet, but I definitely get the vibe that even if she does betray Dami in any way, she's probably gonna stick her neck out for Dami again and he's probably gonna do the same.

I'm really intrigued about her motivations for being here. Obviously, Respawn has something to do with it, but I want to know what's up with that. I've seen a lot of theories and I'm so excited. Also side note, that Black Swan chick is hot, and I can't wait to see more of her in action!!!

I feel like Ravager knows a WHOLE lot more than Dami does about the interesting things going on on the island, mainly because she's been doing a lot more sitting and waiting than he has as of yet, but I'm hoping to see more of the two of them doing detective-y sleuthing together. We love a mysteryyyy

Flatline

Okay but real talk, why does she look like a character straight out of Monster High

Honestly tho, I dig it. It's cute! She's cute! She isn't annoying (yet) but I don't know if I care too much about her other than she would make a cute friend for Dami.

I think the problem with DC is that they know people LOVE Harley Quinn and they try so hard to make characters just like her but it always falls short, so honestly I am a little wary of her character development in this run, but I'm willing to give her a shot since her little coffin purse on the cover of the second issue is so damn cute. I'm a slut for character design, okay?

Oh speaking of Flatline and Dami, I don't ship it and I don't want them to force a romantic relationship into Damian's "coming of age"/"soul-searching" moment okay? Because that's what this run is about, at least to me! More on that in the story section!

They're literally 13/14 years old. That's 8th-9th grade, babes lets think about that for a minute

Also let's stop the whole "lets introduce a female character just to make her a love interest!" bullshit okay?

Basically, Flatline is interesting, or at least has the potential to be, but I don't want to get my hopes up because DC is notorious for disservicing their female characters 😕

I think the mixed reaction to her is valid, I don't think she's had much time to make a solid impression yet, so I guess you'd have to read it for yourself. Personally, I don't understand why people immediately hate her, especially because she's like, 14, and what kid that age isn't annoying? like at least a little bit lmao! But, yeah. I don't trust her either but literally everyone on this island is sketchy at least and a murderer at best, so hey 🤷‍♀️

Damian

His new outfit lmaoooo at first I was like "WHaT is this child wearing? You'd think Dick would have rubbed off on him and taught him what good taste looks like" but then I saw the later outfit, with the gold patterning and those sleeeevessssss ugh and I take it all back. A Fashion Icon TM. Truly stunning. A sight to behold. So proud, look at him go 😪

I think there's a lot of different opinions on Damian's characterization in this run, and I can definitely see where its coming from, but I disagree with the notion that Damian has been done dirty and reverted to a blood-thirsty, feral child.  And I have a LOT of opinions on the whole "feral" thing regarding Damian period (but that's for another time).

I don't think of Dami's rampage as a regression for his character. He's letting of emotions right then and I think its very similar to him venting. Its just not verbal, its physical and he knows he's not going to have to grapple with the consequences of his actions on the first kill. He knows he's technically not doing anything wrong.

He is clearly upset at Bruce and his failure to protect Alfred, and while Dami and Bruce are really often described as being very similar personality-wise, they are still distinctly different individuals who came to their current moral codes in vastly different ways. Bruce came to his "no killing" rule on his own; he made that decision for himself. It wasn't taught to him, it was a moment-of-truth kind of situation. Damian, on the other hand is in a vastly different situation.

Dami is, I think, at the beginning of the climb to his own moment-of-truth. He is in his rebellious phase like Dick, where he's gone off to spread his wings. It's not his conscious intention (at least that's not the vibe I got from reading the first two issues), but its directly underlying his "mission".

Damian is growing out of the expectations of his parents and into his own person. We all know he's been thrown from one moral code to another, both drastically different from each other. I don't think its a regression for him to lose his way a little, because realistically, he's going to have to in order to find it, specifically a moral compass that he forged on his own. He's just what? 14? Like hell a kid his age wants to listen to any form of authority. He's as stubborn as it comes. Damian needs to come to his decision regarding the path he takes in life on his own. It can't be made for him. He's seen and lived both sides of the coin, and I don't think he should be forced just yet to choose a side or pave a middle ground, but I do think that he should get the opportunity to see and experience all the gray areas on his own.

I think I'll transition from characterization to story here, because let's face it, this story is about Damian dealing with his confused emotions right now, in the wake of losing Alfred, a man that kind of acted like a grounding presence, a voice of reason, or a moral compass for him (and honestly Bruce and the rest of the bat crew if we're honest).

Story

So there's a lottttt going on in the story that is really enticing and exciting, and I'm really interested to see how it all plays out.

All the rules to the tournament are so, sketchy? Like they don't sound like they are meant to be sketchy, its basic safety and guidelines or whatever but with all the glowy green shit and the stakes of the tournament? Yeah, you can bet your ass its the "no fighting at night" and other shit is gonna be broken, and that's likely when the fun begins *insert evil laughter*😈

I was slightly put off by the whole "let me teach you to have fun" thing with Rose, because it's not like Dick, Steph, Jon, and like the Titans haven't done that with him too, but eh, not something I'm too concerned about. It's definitely just a segway to get us introduced to more characters that might become Damian's friends which will be interesting considering what Mother Soul said about fraternizing.

And that's another thing! I want Damian to make some friends! I know he already has some, but here's the thing: I think he's already been struggling with belonging, and he's definitely been feeling the disconnect between his life and other kids', whether they're supers/vigilantes or not. I think it'd be nice to see Dami have the experience of meeting people who he at first thinks are just like him!! and then realizing that maybe he doesn't really fit in here either, and that it's okay to feel like you don't belong, as isolating as it may feel at times. It just means you have a set of values. I want him to realize that its not always a bad thing, and you learn more about yourself and your own heart this way.

And from there,,, lets talk about the thing that stuck out to me the most in these two issues! GUILT!! It's mentioned SOO many times already, and I think its going to be a really fun, heartbreaking, and interesting aspect to explore about Damian. Is it guilt about his actions? Leaving behind family? Not being able to save Alfred? Not being a perfect example of Robin? He may call himself Robin but he doesn't sport the OG look or symbol like before. I love that his guilt takes on the form of Alfred though, or at least his conscious. I think it'd be really interesting to see this conscious disappear when Dami strays too far from his center, and when he finds it again, it reappears.

I really think that seeing Damian's actions in this run as a failure of character development is an unfair assessment, though. You can't do everything right in order to grow! You have to screw up, lose your way, experiment with life to find your fit, right?

Something tells me he doesn’t care for the tournament itself, but the end result, and the people behind it and more about WHY it was hidden from him. I mean he finds out the tournament TRULY begins once everyone has died once and tHEN he kill everyone? Felt to me less like a “killing spree” as everyone put it to a calculated decision to get the tournament going. He literally cuts Mother Soul off in the middle of her speaking to start fighting at the beginning

Anyway, just my thoughts lol. I do have some issues with the past two issues, and I might make a separate post about that, but honestly not enough for me to dislike Robin 2021 so far. I mean, besides the very obvious white-washing in the second issue, because DC can absolutely do better. And they should. It’s like they thought we wouldn’t notice???? But besides that, story and characterization-wise I’m looking forward to more. Here’s to hoping it stays that way, just with a better colorist!

#dc comics #robin 2021 #damian wayne #robin

[solarianvoidthearoace]

Excerpt#5 from my JonGerry AU WiP

CN/TW: misunderstanding, relationship miscommunication, jealousy

By the time they left to pick up Martin, only five minutes later than planned, they were back to their playful banter. Laughing while walking through the evening air, feeling like teens when they had snuck out at night to talk for hours.

When they first met with Martin, he looked like he very strongly wanted to comment on their appearance, but nonetheless he kept quiet.

Only after they had arrived at the art show, Gerry walking off to find Gertrude after putting on his lanyard marking them as an assistant, Martin and Jon got a moment to themselves.

“You look stunning”, Martin finally mumbled. Gerry had done a good job, picking Jon’s outfit. He wore wide ‘Marlene’-pants, almost passing for an ankle-skirt. Combined with a blouse similar to the one Jon had worn on the party but floatier while patterned in a colourful paisley.

Smiling a bit flustered, Jon brushed his hair back,

“Thank you. You as well.” Before offering his hand and interlacing their fingers.

Gerry got his share of compliments from Sasha.

“Damn, I didn’t know you could look this classy”, she nudged his shoulder when they left the final briefing with Gertrude. Gerry barely stopped himself from scratching at their head. Jon had spend about half an hour, as soon as their hair was dry enough, to put it into a decent hairdo. What Gerry ended up with, was a crown braid. Obviously Jon had left the broad strands framing their face to fall loose, but a few centimetres back sat the rather thick braid atop Gerry’s head like a hair circlet. After putting the attention to that part of the style, Jon had simply continued the two halves of the crown braid as French braids. Positioning them to run along the back of Gerry’s head without really looking like they were one. Instead, after there was no more space to French braid, Jon had tucked just the tail ends underneath. The rest-length of the braids that would hang loose was pinned underneath the circlet in the back. In a way so it covered the entire back of Gerry’s head, from the nape up to the main braid.

Instead they fidgeted with one of the loose strands, smiling a bit sheepishly,

“I feel like that compliment goes to Jon, actually. He put the work in. And you don’t look half bad yourself. As always.” Sasha grinned them. Her dark skin did contrast nicely with the airy lime-green blouse she had donned for the night. The fabric shifting gently but extensively as she shrugged,

“Still, it’s you looking good in it. And now go, I know you don’t want to abandon your date.” Gently pushing him back to the area around the entrance, she turned towards the growing crowd of guests.

As Gerry made their way back to Martin and Jon, he got stopped twice with a question about the paintings on sale. Politely explaining he was the one with in-depth knowledge about the themes, art style and technique, the talks ended rather quickly. As per usual, people looking to buy art weren’t exactly interested in knowing the actual interpretation or any technical specifics about the paintings.

When they caught up with the two men again, the two were seemingly discussing a painting they stood in front of. Smirking, Gerry just waited, admittedly trying to listen in. For someone who had proclaimed to not know anything about art, Jon actually had a good feeling for what the painting was not only illustrating but also the subtler, more in-depth interpretation of it. When Martin continued to look doubtful, he made his entrance.

“If I may help the gentlemen. I’m here as the expert on the artist’s technique as well as how to interpret the works in regards to their individual themes”, he even threw in a slight bow for good measure.

After a slight shove from Jon, the evening continued more or less as anticipated. The two of them looked around, Gerry easily explained the paintings they asked them about.

It even lead to some more people approaching him, suddenly interested in more than just the looks of the art works.

After one such presentation of a painting, Gertrude approached them. Jon and Martin had wandered into the next part of the gallery, leaving Gerry to their task.

“I don’t know what you did, Delano, but we have already had more definite sales as we usually have this early into a gallery show. People didn’t just reserve specific works, they actually wanted to set up paperwork.” Gerry snorted,

“Apparently I should bring someone with more often. As soon as I was talking, people around us got interested and asked to have other paintings explained as well. Sure, almost nobody asked about technique anything, but the themes seem to make an impact.” Gertrude had to stretch, considering they wore 6 inch platform-heels, against her wishes, and pushed at 2 metres as it was. Still, she patted him on the shoulder,

“You’re good at what you do. And you knew how to sell yourself even before I got to refine that. This is exactly why I want you on these shows, once you get talking you draw people in.”

She drew her hand back to wag a finger at them,

“Don’t let that get to your head, though.”

Gerry made a face, trying his very best not to laugh,

“Trudie, if I remember correctly…”, they raised a hand placatingly,

“Of course, you handle the finance and management side of things, without you I never would have made it this far. But it’s still a fact that the both of us have been making good money for years now. I think”, he finally did grin,

“I am somewhat allowed to have a bit of an ego.” She huffed, lightly slapping their still raised hand out of the air. Shaking her head in exasperation, she put her hands on her hips,

“You are a nuisance, I stand by that. But, you are also worth more than the time and work I put out to build you up. I’m proud of you, Gerard… Gerry.” He blinked. This was far from the first time Gertrude openly praised them but it always was a rare and far in-between thing, elegantly framed by reprimands to not slack off.

“Now, don’t get all soft and emotional with me. The evening isn’t over!”

Jon and Martin had sat down on one of the padded benches. Just sitting together for a moment, taking in the art they were surrounded by. Martin was more interested in paintings and other forms of art, while Jon didn’t really care to know much about it. Or so he had thought. Tonight had proved him wrong, when Jon’s guess at several pieces’ interpretation had been confirmed by Gerry themself. It was nothing Gerry had praised him for, nothing Jon had gotten smug about. But it was something Martin had noticed as distinct nonetheless.

He tried to make the best of the evening with Jon while Gerry was occupied with their job. After all, Martin had wanted to take Jon to an art exhibit at the museum or something similar, so he wanted to not miss out on that. But for now they just sat together, chatting politely and lightly, not even particularly about the art.

It was nice, amiable.

Jon drew back his arm from around Martin, again reaching to interlace their fingers. The smile blooming on his face made Martin trail off, instead looking at Jon in adoration. Cautiously, as he was so attentive to always treat Jon, Martin lifted their hands. He was about to press a kiss to Jons fingers, when he noticed something.

“Huh”, leaning back, to instead inspect the fingers, he looked at Jon,

“Did something happen before you came here? Your nails are tinged.” Jon blinked, pulling his hand back to take a look for himself. Judging by the colour of it, he had a pretty tangible idea what had happened. Shaking his head, he was more laughing to himself about it, really. At Martin’s still questioning look, his giggle turned into a smile,

“Gerry felt the need to put semi-permanent purple over the black hair colour I helped him with.” Martin smiled, a bit reserved, still,

“Oh, so you helped them again?” Jon shook his head, feeling the heat creeping onto his cheeks to accompany his giddy smile with a blush. “No, well…”, he ducked his head,

“We showered together before we got ready.” Clasping his hands in his lap, he pressed his lips together, trying to suppress a new grin.

“Oh”, Martin sounded off, somehow,

“That’s nice. I guess.” Jon blinked, looking up at his boyfriend. His expression rapidly becoming quizzical, brows creasing,

“Is something wrong?”

“No”, Martin answered a bit too quickly,

“No, no. It’s fine. Of course there is nothing wrong”, he waved the idea away, huffing a bit,

“It’s fine, really, Jon.”

Jon slowly became concerned, Martin was definitely upset, despite denying it so insistently. But before he got another chance to ask, Martin’s gaze flickered up, over Jon’s shoulder. The man’s posture stiffening even more. Now actively listening for it, Jon heard Gerry’s heels drawing closer. When they came to a stop behind him, he didn’t turn, keeping his eyes on Martin.

He looked… bristly. Not exactly irritated, per se. But something was upsetting him in a way that made him withdraw. Clam up and shut Jon out.

“Looks like the night is drawing to a close”, Gerry began. Instead of sitting down like a sensible adult, he leaned forward, resting his arms on Jon’s shoulders, looking over his head.

“Are you ready to get going for that dinner we had planned?” Martin stood abruptly, distancing himself from where Gerry and Jon were. Clearing his throat, he took a deep breath,

“I… I think I should go”, his voice returning to its usual softness, tentativeness,

“I don’t want to… to intrude on your evening. A-any more, that is.” And without so much as a proper goodbye, he walked out on them.

After a moment, having stood up again, Gerry softly clicked his tongue,

“Okaaaaaay… what did I miss?” Jon sighed, shoulders slumping as he finally turned towards them,

“Same thing I don’t understand, apparently.”

#jongerry #fanfic #TMA fanfic #my writing #wip #my wip #Jon sims #Gerry Keay #Gerry Delano #JonMartin mention #au fanfiction #tma au #Gerry Keay lives #Gerry Keay uses he/they #he/they character #non binary gerry keay #writer is asexual #nonbinary headcanon #gnc jon sims #gnc character #long post #long text #long text post #writer is aromantic #writer is genderqueer

[selkiewife]

I know i’m late on this but I wanted to talk about The Dragon Demands videos based on the Game of Thrones Season 8 blue ray commentary and the original archived scripts for Game of Thrones, Season 8.

Basically, YouTuber, The Dragon Demands went to the Writer’s Guild Library where he was able to see the archived scripts of Season 8 of Game of Thrones. Both the archive scripts and commentary on the blue ray confirms that most of the destruction in King’s Landing was originally supposed to be caused by the caches of wild fire left by Aerys being accidentally set off by Drogon and not because Daenerys herself “went mad.” The script says that civilians being used as human shields are caught in the crossfire as Daenerys is targeting Lannister soldiers in a strategical maneuver right before she heads to the Red Keep to enact revenge on Cersei. However, Daenerys is never described as specifically targeting innocent civilians needlessly.

My thoughts under the cut:

I have to say, that this makes me feel slightly better in a strange way. I mean, it doesn’t erase the bad writing, the ridiculous way the war against the white walkers ended, the misogyny, the inconsistency, etc etc ETC... but this crucial plot point was the one I just couldn’t let go of because it was just baffling to me. With other controversial plot points, I would disagree with them, but I could at least understand what they were going for and what the motivations of the characters were. But Daenerys turning on innocent civilians was truly baffling to me because it comes out of nowhere, is entirely out of character, her motivations are incredibly unclear, and was not set up at all. But with all the fandom discourse, I had really started to think that maybe I am lacking comprehension skills or something. But no, there is actually a reason it made no sense. The “madness” plot line was added later. Emilia Clarke was never given the opportunity to portray Daenerys as mentally unstable. Emilia was portraying grief and revenge on Cersei (as the original script and directors told her to do) in contrast to D&D’s final editing which was portraying the “mad queen.” No wonder it came across as completely false and bewildering- before we even get into the discussion of whether or not this is in character or not.

I think this is definitely more than just a theory that the script was changed pretty late in development because of all the evidence- it is confirmed by Emilia’s commentary, the Visual Effects team member’s commentary, and also the original concept art. But even if there wasn’t all that evidence, there is also the fact that the original ending makes so many other confusing things in Season 8 suddenly make SENSE.

For example, when Jon confronts Daenerys in the throne room and he talks about the women and children that were burned, Daenerys responds with “She used their innocence as a weapon against me.” Which makes total sense for Daenerys to say if she thinks she is talking about civilians that were used as human shields that died in the crossfire. But it doesn’t make any sense if she carpet bombed the city- although it does make her seem delusional, which is probably why Dave and Dan kept those lines in- hoping it would make her appear “mad,” since Emilia was never actually given the opportunity to portray Daenerys as mentally unstable.

There is also the scene where Jon asks Tyrion, “Was it right?” to assassinate Daenerys and Tyrion responds, “Ask me again in ten years.” There is really no reason for them to have that dialogue if Daenerys really did target and massacre innocent civilians. That is the kind of dialogue they would have if they were discussing someone who had done something more morally ambiguous.

Then there are the lines that are out of place in the final version but that would have made complete sense in the original wild fire version, such as Jon saying “now and always” as he stabs Daenerys. “Now and always” as any Theon fan will tell you, is a phrase that belongs to Theon and Robb and what they said to each other when Theon was pledging loyalty to Robb. Having Jon say this to Dany as he is killing Daenerys represents the ultimate betrayal but also calls back to Theon’s struggle and how difficult it is to chose between loyalties- between families. In this case, Jon is choosing the Starks over the Targaryens. Kit Harrington even says that this is motivation in an interview he gave with winteriscoming.net. But given the fact that in the final edit, Daenerys massacred innocent children and civilians on purpose, Kit’s motivation for Jon seems like a relic of an earlier script:

Kit Harrington: “Jon essentially sees it as Daenerys or Sansa and Arya, and that makes his mind up for him. He choose blood over, well, his other blood. But he chooses the people he has grown up with, the people his roots are with, the North. That’s where his loyalties lie in the end. That’s when he puts the knife in.”

And Yara Greyjoy’s lines. She surprisingly remains completely loyal to Daenerys, despite the fact that she massacred the entire city for no reason:

Yara Greyjoy: I swore to follow Daenerys Targaryen.

Sansa Stark: You swore to follow a tyrant.

Yara Greyjoy: She freed us from a tyrant. Cersei is gone because of her, and Jon Snow put a knife in her heart. Let the Unsullied give him what he deserves.

This kind of conversation only seems plausible if they are discussing Daenerys taking out Cersei after she had surrendered and killing human shields in the process, something I can see Yara completely defending- since she was always in favor of attacking King’s Landing as seen during her war counsel scenes in Season 7.

There is also the Emilia Clarke quote in the behind the scenes video HBO put out after the episode where she explains that Dany was targeting Cersei herself:

Emilia Clarke: “It’s just... grief. It’s hurt. And she has this ability to make that hurt a little bit less just for a minute. And here she is, sitting on this ridge and there’s the emotion and there’s the feeling and the feeling is to fucking kill her.”

Note that she does not say “the feeling is to fucking massacre the city,” or “the feeling is to target innocent civilians.” She says “the feeling is to kill her” as in Cersei Lannister- who is responsible for the death of her dragon and Missandei- and who massacred countless innocents herself when she blew up the goddamn sept lol.

Not to mention all of the set up lines between Cersei, Tyrion, and Varys about Cersei using “human shields” which never came to fruition in the final edit, now make complete sense:

Cersei: Keep the gates open. If she wants to take the castle she’ll have to murder thousands of innocents first.

Varys: Tens of thousands of innocents will die. That is why Cersei is bringing them into the Red Keep

And yet, lol, we never actually SEE Daenerys attacking the Red Keep. We never see innocent civilians inside the Red Keep. We only see civilians being massacred in the streets.

I also remember people who had seen the post Season 8 Game of Thrones Live Concert saying that Ramin switched to footage of the other wildfire scenes in past Game of Thrones seasons during his Bells sequence, instead of showing the massacre of innocent civilians by dragon fire. I use to think he did that because Daenerys was his favorite character. But given what we now know about the original ending, he probably chose to show the wildfire scenes because that was what he had specifically written music for before it was changed- the destruction of Kings Landing by wildfire.

I really wish they had kept the original script the way it was. It still would have been an incredibly controversial ending. Daenerys still goes after soldiers and a Queen who is surrendering- and that action unintentionally leads to the destruction of the entire city. Jon Snow still assassinates his lover and betrays one part of his family for the other. But, it would have at least made logical sense. People would have gone back and forth over whether it was in character or whether it was a good ending. But it would have been something people would be able to actually debate on an intellectual level- the way we debate Daenerys crucifying the slavers (who themselves crucified children) or Jon Snow executing Olly... It is a very grey and tragic ending with a lot of moral questions. It still might have gone over like a lead balloon. But... the ending we have is so much worst because it’s nonsensical.

The only reason I can think that they changed it was to make Jon and Tyrion appear less morally grey for plotting Daenerys’ assassination. They probably knew that the ending would be very problematic and were trying to smooth that over by turning Daenerys into a super villain. Yet they did this too late in the process after already showing Daenerys to be heroic in fighting with the north and then having Emilia Clarke finish her filming still believing she was playing a complex and at times ruthless character but not “mad” or “evil.” And then, there is also the intensely problematic issue with them conflating mental illness with mass murdering super villain. Even if it had been clear throughout the entire season that Daenerys was losing her grip on reality and becoming more and more mentally unstable, it still would have been incredibly controversial and I am not entirely sure it would have made the men look any better anyway.

Even though it is tragic af, at least with the original wildfire ending, all of the characters are incredibly complex and morally grey and you can understand the motivations for everything they do, even if you don’t agree with them. For example, if Daenerys attacks Cersei after she surrendered, it is wrong, but it is also completely understandable. And in my opinion, it’s even more understandable when you remember that Cersei cannot be trusted. She can’t be trusted to send her armies to the north- why should Daenerys trust her to surrender in good faith? This kind of ending would also have said something very powerful about unintended consequences. Even though Daenerys did not intend for so many people to die needlessly, they did because war is horrific. And that message becomes even more powerful if her motivations are understandable. But yeah, this kind of ending would have still been hated and debated but... at least the debates would have been more about the story itself rather than everyone trying (and failing) to make sense of what the story even is.

#anti got #anti d&d #daenerys targaryen #game of thrones original ending #game of thrones #sorry for the double post #the original one wasn't posting #but now they are both in the tags #sorry!

[bigdaddib]

Promise pt.3

It was the second time she had ignored him and his tactics hadn’t changed. He called her, he knocked at her window, he waited outside her door, but she wasn’t ready. She wasn’t ready to look at him, she wasn’t ready to forgive him. At least not until she stopped thinking about touching him, until she stopped being hurt that he broke his promise. Maybe then she would open her door, answer her phone, but not before.

 And that might’ve worked. If he’d waited until she was ready before talking to her. Maybe she could’ve told him that, a simple “I can’t right now, but maybe later.” None of that happened, instead Gendry snuck into her room when Arya was out dropping Bran and Rickon off at summer school.

 He was waiting on her bed, knee bobbing up and down, and that alone weakened Arya. If only that wasn’t the very thing she was trying to fight against, if only that feeling didn’t spur her anger on further. “Get out Gendry,” she demanded.

 “No,” he snapped back. “No, you’re being ridiculous Arya,” he seemed just as angry as she was and she wanted to know what gave him the right.

 She was brimming with anger and frustrations she couldn’t fit into words. Looking at him, all she saw was the boy who had facetimed her everyday at dance camp. He was casual, in bed, telling her nothing exciting could happen when she wasn’t there. But he had been lying, he had been partying, something he had sworn he would never do without her, if he did at all. He was always too scared he would turn into his father, and he couldn’t share that experience with her, he hid it from her, and that wasn’t what best friends did. That wasn’t what family did. But that’s what he did, which meant he didn’t think of her as family. “How could you keep this from me?” she asked as lowly as she was able, determined not to scream.

 “I didn’t want anyone to know! I didn’t—”

 “I’m not supposed to be anyone Gendry! I’m supposed to be your favorite! I’m supposed to be your best friend. Or were all your promises complete bullshit?!”

 Gendry’s eyes flared something dark, “You didn’t just ask me that.”

 “I guess we’re both surprising each other,” it was in her right.

 “I only went to that fucking party because—” he cut himself off, tugging harshly at his hair.

 Arya’s brows came together in a curious line, “Yes? Please continue!”

 “Because you went off to that camp! I asked you not to go, I asked you to promise not to go and you—”

 “Why the fuck wouldn’t I go?! How is that anywhere near—”

 “You damn well know why Arya. That Jaqen is no good, and being alone with him in the middle of nowhere—”

  “What does that have anything to do with you keeping secrets from me?!”

 “Are you mad because I kept a secret from you, or are you made because I fucked someone before I fucked you?” he said, knowing exactly what he was doing.

 Arya saw red. She picked up her lamp and threw at him, and when he dodged she threw the alarm clock, then a text book, and when there was nothing left on her nightstand she pulled her drawer out and threw that too.

 “How dare you!” she shouted. “How fucking dare you!” the corner of her drawer clipped the high point of his cheek which soon started bleeding.

 He didn’t seem to notice it, “If you can’t look passed your own damn emotions to see what that night did to me, then maybe you’re right. Maybe you’re not my fucking favorite after all.”

 It was in that moment Jon decided to bust in, “What the fuck is going on in here?” he asked, breathless.

 Arya was desperately fighting off tears, “Ask him, he’s your best friend,” she left the room to find something to eat.

  The next time she returned to her room it was empty. She told herself that was a good thing. It was still a mess, her nightstand droppings littered all over the floor, but that probably wasn’t going to change until her mother couldn’t stand it anymore.

 But on her bed was a folded up piece of paper, opening it she saw every promise Gendry had her make.

 -promise to never notice Joffrey

 -promise to always stay close during family get togethers

 -promise to always eat lunch with me at school

 -promise to never tell Joffrey where I keep my secret stuff

 -promise not to like any of the Lannisters more than me

 -promise not to fall in love with Jaquen

 -promise to always tell me when your recitals are

 -promise to wait for me before traveling the world

 -promise to always keep Saturdays for you and me

 -promise to let me pick the movies sometimes

 -promise to never pity me

 -promise to stop losing all my fucking clothes

 -promise to not come to my house when you’re drunk. Go home, I’ll come to you.

 -promise to take me with you

 -promise not to abandon me

 At the end of the list, written and red, were the words, NEVER MIND.

 Arya was quiet during the week. She ate, she went to ballet, she went to archery, sometimes she tried to box, but her and Gendry usually did that together so it was hard. She was always teetering between hot anger and numbed sadness. She laid in bed, wondering which would win in the end.

 She missed him terribly. The longest they went without each other was for that one promise, the promise that started so much trouble from the beginning. She should’ve revoked that promise years ago, the second she understood the implications she should’ve went to him and said, “Never mind.”

 Never mind.

 Never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mine never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind never mind.

 That’s really what was going on in her head. On and on, those two words. Everything he had ever asked of her, their entire relationship, never mind.

 Fine, then never mind it was. Never mind all of it, never mind all his pathetic abandonment issue bullshit, it wasn’t her fucking problem anymore. He wasn’t her fucking problem anymore. And she…she wasn’t his. So…never mind.  

 Arya was making a sandwich when Jon walked in. He stared for a while, leaning against the wall. Arya paid him no mind.

 “What are you doing?” he eventually asked.

 “Making a sandwich,” she thought it had been obvious.

 “With Gendry.”  “I’m not doing anything with Gendry.”

 “Honestly Arya, how long is this thing going to last?”

 “It’s not gonna last. It’s over.”

 “Years of friendship—”

 “If that’s what you wanna call it.”

 “And what do you wanna call it?”  “A waste of time,” she said and tried to force herself to mean it.

 Jon huffed, “You can’t keep this up, Arya. It’s killing you both.”

 “Talked to him, have you?”

 “I’ve tried, he doesn’t say much nowadays.”

 Arya shrugged.

 “Look, I’m not gonna act like I know what happened. But if this has anything to do with you two being in love with each other—”

 “Excuse me?!” Arya abandoned her sandwich to stare at her brother in shock.

 “Seven hells, Arya, enough is enough. Stop torturing yourselves and talk to each other, and this time say what you really wanna say, how about that?” Jon took her sandwich before leaving and Arya threw a loaf of bread at his back.

   They would’ve been long gone by now. Deep in some pub or hotel, enjoying the summer of just them, the summer they had planned three years ago. Now, it was a month in and they’ve only seen each other about three times. Gendry going into Jon’s room, Arya into hers. Gendry picking up Jon and Rob for something Arya wasn’t told about. Well, she was, but she stopped listening when Gendry’s named was mentioned now, it hurt too much and she wasn’t supposed to hurt at the thought of him anymore. He didn’t matter, he was never minded.

 She spent time with Hot Pie, but it was odd without Gendry around, so she only did so when everything was a bit too much. She spent lots of time with Sansa, who surprisingly became quite helpful.

 “They never turn out how you want them to,” she’d say, not even really talking about Arya’s situation at all, these were just things she said. It was nice, to hear it that way, as a universal truth and not a personal epiphany. “One second, they’re sweet and considerate, the next they’re popping off your dolls heads and use their stuffing to lead you to their dead bodies,” she commented, almost nonchalantly. “I say you’ve got it figured out, not to bother with them. Most of them are gay anyway, at least the pretty ones are.”

 This would make Arya laugh. These days it was only Sansa who could manage it out of her. She started to invite Arya to more intimate, underground parties, various school events, all in all things Gendry never had any interest in. Honestly, Arya didn’t have any either, but it was nice for Sansa to show Arya off proudly. It was so different from when they were kids, it told Arya not all change was bad. This was good, being with Sansa was good. Just because she liked to talk about boys and dresses and preferred sewing and art didn’t mean she was stupid. It just meant they could teach each other things, offer different perspectives, and that’s what Arya needed in that month. She needed different.

 “You know, lots of boys are starting to ask about you,” Sansa told Arya as they were lounging in Sansa’s room. They were watching the Princess Bride which Arya was surprisingly enjoying a fair amount.

 “If it’s Westley tell him to ask whatever he wants,” it was the first time Arya had started to say any of these types of things out loud without feeling silly and outside herself. It was okay to feel these things, it didn’t mean she was any less than who she was.

 “I’ll have to fight you for that one. But really, they’re getting curious.”

 Arya peaked at her sister, “Who?”

 “Poderick, for one. I think he’d be the best for you right now, you’ve heard the rumors, haven’t you?”

 Arya nodded, “The one with him and the three strippers?”

 “Yes, I think he’s just the one to get your mind off of Gendry.”

 Arya stiffened all over. The best part about Sansa is that she made no mentions of him, not even the slightest of hints. She avoided the topic and put no pressure on Arya to either. It was easy to pretend there was nothing about him to talk about. She turned back toward the movie, feeling again that shift between anger and sadness.

 She still missed him. Obviously, she still missed him. She missed boxing with him, she missed Saturdays with him, she missed sneaking through his window when it was dark, she missed falling asleep on facetime with him, she missed hiking with him, she missed falling asleep on him, she missed how big his clothes were on her, she missed making him laugh, she missed him making her laugh, she missed him picking her up from ballet, she missed making him blush, she missed…

 See, this is why you couldn’t mention him around her. She started making lists, lists like the one he had left her. The one severing all long-term connections they’d ever made.

 “Arya,” Sansa paused the movie. Arya’s jaw clenched as everything in her tensed into a hard knot. “Listen, you do whatever you have to do. If you want to stay in here and watch movies with me, great. If you want to go punch the shit out of some stuffed animals, I have many Joffrey spared. If you want to talk about it, I’m all ears. If you want to forget about it, I think Pod would be a great start. But, simply ignoring it until it goes away…Arya, you’re not getting any happier.”

 Arya loosened up a bit, managing to meet Sansa’s understanding eye. “We can all do something sometime…I guess…” she was supposed to be with Gendry right now, in the middle of nowhere, in his truck, lots of blankets…

 Sansa offered a small, sad smile, “It’ll work out,” she promised, then played what was quickly becoming Arya’s favorite movie.

#arya x gendry #gendrya #gendryaau #gendrya ff #Arya Stark #Gendry Waters #gendrya fanfiction #pt.3 #gendryafluff #gendryaseries #friends to lovers

[thattimdrakeguy]

Toxicity, gaslighting, hypocrisy, an overall just bad fandom folks on twitter.

I’m glad I’m not involved with twitter comic fandom cuz the amount of people trying  to make Tim look bad like throwing a fit cuz he’s under too much pressure or like-- not being a saint. While calling characters that constantly murder people or violate human rights “baby” is way too high.

Even just the minor lies are nutty, acting like the 90s edgy art style at the time shows Tim is twisted cuz he looks scary in it-- when it’s just dated art

But then-- complain when people say things out of context for other characters-- when the context doesn't make it better. I really can’t process those people. they confuse me.

Also one of them apparently said Tim being a rich white kid makes him a power fantasy? Which is superficial at best  when applied to Tim given when you read 90s Robin-- (Which I assume they’re complaining about, cuz he still lives away from Bruce then-- cuz otherwise Jason would technically count as a rich kid) Tim is just this dorky kid, who’s scared on  the inside, putting on a brave face and fighting crime and his insecurity problem. He’s not some masculine power fantasy, he’s a relateable kid, his wealth besides being able to spend money in his first mini was even portrayed negatively if any thing sometimes with his dad as having been away for a lot of his childhood and leaving Tim without proper social development and being pretty socially clueless to the point it‘s a problem he has no street smarts.

So pretty much just gaslighting and strawman arguments.

You’re racist if you don’t like Damian.

You hate poor people if you don’t like Jason.

You’re sexist if you don’t like Stephanie.

But I’m someone who still likes Jason a lot even if I don’t like any thing in the Red Hood era not done by Winnick (and even then there’s a scene in Lost Days  that creeps me out), and used to like Damian and Steph, I just stopped liking them because I just found myself realizing I don’t particularly like a lot of their writing.

At the same time as well, isn’t it just more reasonable that people don’t like them cuz of simple taste or their character actions?

Damian does kidnap people and violates people’s human rights currently, and did chemically paralyze and trigger Jon in their first meeting, as well as smacks him for freaking out later on that miniseries.

If you made Steph a dude, more people would be very likely to call Steph a sexual harasser for flirting with Tim past  what he’s comfortable with, even with the knowledge he has a girlfriend. Plus she has shown dangerous cynicism in nearly letting criminals die, and even tendencies found in emotional abusers given her gaslighting, ill-trust, and attempts to go behind Tim's back, and even throwing crap at him while refusing to talk as he’s trying to apologize for some thing he didn’t actually do.

Not even to say Tim is a saint, he’s shown to be insensitive, and condescending, but if you start with his origin and not Red Robin, in my experience it ‘s more likely you’ll read him as a socially oblivious boy scout-esque kid rather than an angsty jerk. Doesn’t make what he did not bad, but just more interesting, because if a character is a saint it‘s boring, and Tim's actual original character makes what he does less offending to people. He has gotten incredibly pissed off at his friends, but ... he’s a literal kid that has to lead other kids with super powers. It‘s bad that he threw fits, but it ‘s never done in a way that makes it feel like “Oh i must hate this character”. Damian is also a kid, but what he does is way more notably offending to some people. He has a bad backstory but it is fiction, people have different standards with specific actions depending on how they feel about it. It‘s not illogical to be fine with a socially oblivious kid being insensitive but not be fine with a character  that consistently does bad things even after they’re aware it‘s bad. 

(Heck, Tim even cheated on his girlfriend, but given how that whole storyline chunk was written, it‘s more out of character and an example of bad writing than anything else, given how Tim feels on the topic of cheating before and after, as well as how much he cared about Ari. It was inconsistent and even the writing breezes past reality with how Ari suddenly agrees to mutually break up. I don’t  believe the story actually treats it fully as cheating either, making it feel like they knew. So it feels more like bad writing than a thing to judge Tim on, because that‘s just something people use to criticize bad writing, quite commonly even with many shows or movies. I can still get why people don’t care. It‘s more of a writing complaint. Like Jason being a serial killer is. It‘s inconsistent, doesn't add up, and isn’t a good reflection of the character.)

If you are fine with it is some thing else, cuz that‘s a matter of tastes.

I actually started calling Tim “baby” cuz Damian fans called Damian baby-- which I find a bit more odd (sometimes honestly just worried given the crap he does in the images they say that to some of the time), cuz while I’m aware Damian is younger obviously, he’s only cute in pandering moments that‘d I’d actually deem ooc, using basic standards that it isn’t consistent with anything before and after, as well as not fitting who the character is or even built up properly if they even try. (Also cuz Aunt May called Peter and friends babies and  thought it was charming). My blog as well is about 90s Tim Drake as well, where’d he’d be a year off of the same age as Damian mainly, I may call him baby past that age, but that‘s just cuz it‘s s tuck in my head now. I really can’t picture calling RR Tim baby in fandom usage of the word (which is  the only way I use it) if that was the only way he’s ever been.

Like with characters I start from the beginning (besides Dick and Bruce cuz gosh that’d take forever) and judge what ‘s in-character from there and read, while noticing development as well as things they’ve done. i didn’t read Red Robin first, I read Robin first. I didn’t read Batgirl first I read her Robin appearances first. When I studied Jason I wen t with his post-crisis Robin run (I deem pre-crisis Jason a different character given so much is different the same way i do with the New 52 teen titans core four generally speaking besides comparing to pre-New 52 versions). When I went to study Damian for stuff I read his first appearances forward much the same. And at one point in time I liked all these characters, I judged them based off of reading them.

So I’m not someone with just a bias-- I’m aware some of my friends do, but I’m not my friends if that wasn’t obvious. I’m friends with some people that like vastly different things than me even.

All I can say in the end is that it bugs me that toxic people have convinced themselves they are some victim while spreading harassment, lies, and gaslighting, because other people just enjoy different things or read things differently.

A lot of these people bother me especially because they frame themselves or the character  they like as some victim they have to defend, and even target specific people over, when they themselves are the ones showing basic toxic behavior. they are the toxic ones yet believe they’re the victim-- cuz someone read a comic differently or didn’t like the same character as them.

That is nuts to me

I’ve even had to deal with similar people since I gotten called a racist for not liking Damian-- when I’ve even mentioned that I’ve liked Damian previously, and explained I simply didn’t like his comic or his writing enough to reasonably like him. Meaning I guess the action of not liking Damian-- in of itself-- is racist, which is gaslighting at best. I’m sure someone out there even hates Damian because they’re racist, but why treat everyone (or at least some notable chunk to be worth talking about) that doesn't like him as if they’re that person?

They’d rather believe that people that don’t like what they do must be terrible people of some kind rather than treat them as normal people.

They’ve even showed hypocritical behavior, by complaining of others not  giving context-- while doing the same thing to other characters.

As I said, I’m not on comic book twitter, I have not even interacted with these people. I’ve just seen it, and it‘s just so toxic to me. It‘s a bad thing to see over fiction.

#tim drake #Robin #DC Comics #fandom toxicity #discourse

[aion-rsa]

Future State is the Next Evolution for DC’s Legion of Super-Heroes

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J

This article contains spoilers for Future State: Legion of Super-Heroes #1

Never let it be said that Brian Michael Bendis doesn’t know how to keep busy. The prolific writer has had his hands full since coming to DC in 2018. Arriving with much fanfare on both Superman and Action Comics, Bendis also relaunched Young Justice, co-created a new DC mainstay in Naomi, wrote the excellent Batman: Universe, shepherded the Event Leviathan mini, and more. All of these books introduced new characters, re-tooled existing ones (such as aging up young Jonathan Kent to his mid-teens), and set various wheels in motion throughout the DC Universe.

And in the midst of that he also rebooted the team with the largest roster in all of comics, the one that brings with it the most complex web of continuity, the one that requires the most amount of worldbuilding by virtue of its 31st century setting. I am, of course, talking about the Legion of Super-Heroes.

It’s been a little over a year since the launch of Bendis and Ryan Sook’s ongoing Legion of Super-Heroes book, which kicked off in the Superman titles, brought the now Legion-aged Jon Kent along (any good Legion needs a Superboy…it’s the law), showcased some truly spectacular new character designs in Sook’s art (new costumes and regular redesigns for Legionnaires may as well be the law, too) and established what the 31st century of the current DC Universe looks like these days. In true Legion fashion…well, it’s a lot.

The book seemed to reach a stopping point with its twelfth issue, taking a brief hiatus. But not too brief, because as part of DC’s Future State initiative, which offers tantalizing glimpses of the DC Universe to come across the entire line, Bendis returns to the 31st century with the two-part Future State: Legion of Super-Heroes, this time aided and abetted by Riley Rossmo on art. And like Sook before him, Rossmo followed one of those unspoken Legion laws and gave a bunch of the Legionnaires new looks. Great new looks.

But…isn’t Legion of Super-Heroes by its very nature ALREADY a Future State book? Not exactly, and fans of the recent series will find plenty of surprises even as it picks up on story threads from the main series. Oh, and if the roster wasn’t big enough already, there are some Legionnaires you haven’t seen yet, and some fan favorites everyone has been waiting for. Bendis told us all about it…

(This interview has been edited for length)

Den of Geek: Future State: Legion of Super-Heroes #1 kicks off with a time jump from where we last saw the team in Legion of Super-Heroes #12. What can you tell us about that time jump?

Brian Michael Bendis: We were going to do a time jump after the first 12 issues, regardless. That was the plan because it’s in the DNA of Legion where you don’t have to, if you don’t want to, there’s no reason to stay [in one time period]. You don’t have to do monthly, to monthly, to monthly, like you would on Superman or Batman because it’s a shared universe and anything that happens in one book affects all the other books.

Whereas Legion, because it’s a thousand years in the future, you can do five years later. You can jump and bounce around and show the story from different perspectives. So the jump was always on the list of things to do with Legion. And then DC called and said, “Hey, Future State!” And I’m like, “Oh, great. Already in my notes.” It was all already planned. It’s the future, of the future. I liked that, so I leaned into it hard.

The issue isn’t clear about how much of a time jump it is, though.

No. The hint I will give is that it’s not as big of a time jump as people might think, considering the dramatic changes that have happened around them.

Is that time jump, and whatever it is that happened, tied to the “Great Darkness” that was being teased in the latter part of the main run? Or is this a separate event?

It is a separate event, but it doesn’t stop the momentum where they’re headed. They’re concerned that this is The Great Darkness. They’re like, “Oh, this is The Great Darkness. We can deal with it.” And then they go, “Oh, shit. This wasn’t The Great Darkness. This was just a mild case of darkness.” As bad as the event was, there’s something else coming. They live in almost…not fear, but in dread of what this Great Darkness is, how it may manifest itself, and whether they’ll be ready for it when it comes.

It’s funny, when I spoke to you before the launch of the book, I had asked you about the potential to touch on existing Legion stories. At the time, you were like, “No, we don’t want to do that,” and you specifically mentioned The Great Darkness Saga as one where “people know what’s going to happen.” And clearly you’ve found a way around that.

I think when we brought back Secret War or other things at Marvel, you want to find something that fits the label, but elevates. You don’t want to just repeat the beats of something people have already seen. I personally like it when, if you don’t know anything about the history of the Legion, it completely works. But if you know everything about Legion, we’ve got something for you. That’s been my goal from the get go.

You had said that the time jump was already probably going to be baked into the book anyway.

It was. It was like my third note when I was making my notes for Legion. It was like, “oh, and we don’t have to follow a linear timeframe.” We can tell stories from anywhere in this period, even going to prequel stories and then stories that go before they were all gathered as well.

How much of the specifics of that were in place before it became Future State? Was Riley Rossmo on art already on the table? Or did that happen later?

No. I’m very happy to report that Riley was the first name requested, and he immediately said yes. I had worked with Riley on a couple of things. There’s something about his work that very deeply speaks to me. I just was like, I would like to see more Legion with him.

I said, “This is a grand opportunity. Just go nuts.” That’s what you want for someone like Riley, to give him an excuse just to use all his tools and all his imagination. He took it from there.

And the script was really like… sometimes you write scripts, and they’re emotional, and sometimes they almost take on a list of drawing prompts. I was just prompting him to go as crazy as he wanted to go, and I would then take the ideas from there.

How did you settle on which Legionnaires would be part of this? Did Riley have input into that as well?

I 100% said to Riley, “Who do you want to draw?” I do this with anybody I can. If there’s any space in which we can meet. I’m like, “What would you like to draw?” I’ve learned through many years and many collaborations that just asking brings a level of craft and quality to the finished product that everyone gets excited about. When an artist points to something and says, “I want to draw that,” they’re telling you, “I’m going to draw the hell out of it and this is going to be amazing.” So I always try to make it work.

He had a list of characters, some of which I already knew he was going to pick from our past work together. I was able to use most of them. Also, I told him what the hook of the story was, so it was easy to cast. There were some character needs we had, like Saturn Girl, but he had already picked them.

One of my favorite things about the Legion in general, and then particularly about this run of it, it’s always about how the characters evolve and how the costumes get redesigned on a regular basis. This was the first opportunity since Ryan Sook did the designs in the main run for that to happen. Did you discuss any of Riley’s designs beforehand?

I told him “Here’s what’s happened to them, here’s who did it, here’s why, and make your choices. Here’s what’s motivating the character.” And then sometimes he came to me with designs where I went, “Oh, I can write a whole of stuff about that.” So, yeah, it was a nice mix.

It’s nice to see the Duo Damsel change happen.

See, I agree with you and I hated it at the same time. One of my favorite storylines of all time is the Duo Damsel thing. But it’s also like the biggest tragedy in comics to me. It’s like a haunting thing. It’s losing a limb but it’s a whole person. So, I was excited to write it and dreading it at the same time. I knew I would feel it and I knew that Riley would bring a lot to it too.

You’re able to encompass that whole thing in just a couple of panels too. It was really powerful.

Well, if I remember correctly, that’s how they did it back in the day too.

Yeah. It was like, she came back and they’re like, “Wait, you’re alive.” It’s like, “well, kind of…”

Yeah, and no one knows what to say. It’s just so unique, the tragedy.

There’s a lot of characters who appear in this issue. Shadow Lass, Ultra Boy, Brainiac 7, Saturn Girl, Colossal Boy, Chameleon Boy, Cosmic Boy, Timber Wolf, Blok, Duo Damsel, Bouncing Boy, and Element Lad. I rattled off the people that I know for sure because they’re throughout most of the book. And then page eight and nine, there’s this spread and there’s a few Legionnaires that I can’t quite identify. Is that Shrinking Violent and Polar Boy? Who are some of these others?

That’s the Substitute Heroes. Time jumping was number three on my list of Legion notes, but I think the Substitutes was number eight. May I say, hilariously at the announcement of this relaunch of a Legion of Super-Heroes, the first comment was, “Substitute Heroes.” I was like, bring them. We don’t want the Legion, we want the Substitutes. I was excited to bring them in here, and it seemed like a good place. And also, Riley was the right person to infuse them with new energy.

Who’s the guy wearing the Superman crest and the hood?

You will find out next issue. A payoff’s coming.

On page 23, you give Bouncing Boy possibly his most badass moment ever. How long have you been planning that Bouncing Boy moment in your head?

Riley made it the most badass moment ever, I will say. If you really do some pseudo-super-Legion science, he really does add up to be the most powerful Legionnaire. I just thought it was a great way to celebrate that character, which I love.

That panel’s great. I almost want to see it in 3D.

Everyone gets their moment and then every once in a while, just something really special happens in the collaboration and you’re like, yeah, good. I absolutely wanted Bouncing Boy to have that kickass of a moment.

I have one more question about one of the mystery Legionnaires. There’s another great shot, another great spread at the end of the book. There’s a guy who is carrying a laser sword of some kind. I don’t recognize this character.

That’s Ferro Lad and his sword. He has a sword now. I love that design.

There’s one more issue of Future State: Legion of Super-Heroes out in February, but there’s no Legion in DC’s solicitations for March and April.

But there are Legion plans coming. Legion is a hard book to make. There’s 34 lead characters, and we try to shove as many of them on panel as often as possible because that’s one of the best parts of the Legion is the scope of it.

I think you can kind of tell from the jam issues and the fill-ins and the level of quality, attempting to keep it at the highest quality possible, yet still delivering that very special Legion feeling…instead of fill-ins that may not be up to the quality that we were doing, we’ll stop, get a story ready to go, and solicit it when it’s time. There’s more to come.

I know that’s frustrating for some people and some people just want it monthly. I get that, but not all books are created in the same way. It’s art. Even though it’s commercial art, it is art. The pandemic also takes a lot out of the schedule. When we’re ready, we’ll put out more. We’re planning stuff that connects to what’s going on in Justice League as well. Not to connect the two, but that is 100% within what’s happening.

Do you already have your artistic collaborators lined up for the next arc of the book?

Yes.

You’re not going to tell me, are you?

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No. It’s very, very good news. I’m absolutely delighted, but honestly, I don’t want the person stolen. Sometimes that has happened to me. I don’t mean to be vague, but right now, I don’t want to oversell something that is down the line.

One of the cool things you did in the main run of the book was introduce legacy characters that fans don’t usually associate with the Legion, like Dr. Fate and particularly Gold Lantern. I want to know what kind of feedback you got from fans on those.

Well, I was actually quite delighted. I thought the purists were really going to hit us hard on any additive stuff, but most Legion fans know that almost every run of Legion has had the added characters to the roster.

It gets frustrating only because when there’s been a lot of time in between Legion books, so some of these fan-favorite characters from past runs don’t get as much face time because you’ve introduced Gold Lantern and “oh, Gold Lantern is standing in front of Ferro Lad. We want more Ferro Lad!” Which I understand, so you better make sure Gold Lantern is interesting enough that no one feels slighted because it’s not Shadow Lass. I must say the additions, particularly of Gold Lantern and Dr. Fate and Monster Boy, all seem to go over very well and I was grateful for that.

Our biggest pushback was on redesigning the costumes. That comes with every Legion redo as well. So I pointed that out. But part of it is that some of the biggest fans in the world have already dedicated cosplay, and we messed up their cosplay. This happened in the X-Men too when we redid Magneto’s costume. People were screaming at us. We’re like “Oh, because you bought the helmet. Okay. I’m sorry. I get it.”

But I just don’t think they take away from each other. I just know from Legion past and other franchises I’ve worked on that anything you’re earnestly adding to it is good, even if it’s got pushback in the moment. I live in a world with the things I’ve gotten pushed back on the hardest ended up being huge movie moments that everybody applauded 10 years later. “Good job on creating Ronin!” I’m like, “Really? Where were you when it debuted? Because people were ripping my face off.”

So compared to stuff like that, I think the Legion fans have been just really, really generous and cool about where we’re going. I think they can tell we’re real Legion fans and we’re not messing around, and we’re taking it seriously. Even though you may not agree with every choice we’re making, you see we’re making loving choices.

Future State: Legion of Super-Heroes #1 is on sale now. We’ll have more from Brian Michael Bendis about his upcoming run on Justice League very soon!

The post Future State is the Next Evolution for DC’s Legion of Super-Heroes appeared first on Den of Geek.

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#aion-rsa #Den of Geek

[commandermardukas]

My unsugarcoated thoughts on Saezuru 36

**These are my raw and unsugarcoated thoughts on a chapter that breaks my heart. **

He obviously switched tastes and now likes men who are big and quiet and shy and blushy and that is now his definition of cute. In other words “Doumeki”.

And then the narration confirmed that “time flew by since that day”… But well I am still on THAT day. Apologies to the narrative voice but just like our main characters, I, a reader, (an outsider to all of this but very much invested nonetheless) am still very much stuck to that day thank you very much. If me an outsider is like this, what more that’d be for Yashiro and Doumeki. They must be frozen, petrified and stuck soooo deep on that day.  

Nanahara is a nanny, a mommy and a very good aniki to have stayed beside Yashiro through everything. Very loyal. Yashiro could be in an even worse state without him there.

Sugimoto is a Uni graduate. I am very interested and wouldn’t mind to have a Sugimoto spin off / backstory please.  

A former Matsubara guy who was an old fuck buddy. Same era as Ryuuzaki? Is the dude going to play a big role in the next chapters?

And is he being shown as an example of someone who got out of the organization but as described he is still in that kind of line of business. Shady and sketchy still. Not really got out and go on a clean living of a normal dutiful citizen.

Is this a reminder of how Yashiro described being in that world is: “It sucks you in like a famous prostitute”

Misumi is a hot daddy and I’m sure I’d be happy to read a spin off featuring his adventures with his sugar babies(?). Buuuut I am not happy with what happened in his talk with Yashiro. I am unhappy that he doesn’t want to let go of Yashiro and continue to hold him and claim him as his possesion and wants him to go fully back in their organization.  I am not happy (but who cares if I’m happy or not, art is not democracy and my vote doesn’t count). But maybe he got his own reasonable touching loving reasons. Who knows… even Amou probably doesn’t clearly know.

Yashiro staying or leaving is always related to his love. He says he doesn’t know love but he feels it oh sooo deeply and intensely. Chapter 1 shows us the same scene of Misumi wooing Yashiro to his side.

But Yashiro then doesn’t want to move his ass, doesn’t want to leave that place because there is someone he doesn’t want to leave. He wants to hold on and stay with Kageyama.

Jump to chapter 36 and we have the same exact scene. Misumi wooing him back to his side but Yashiro again doesn’t want to move. This time it’s the opposite. He doesn’t want to go back to that place. He doesn’t want to stay in one place. He wants to leave. Why though? Is it because he and Kageyama already had their closure and his long time unrequited love for him ended? There’s no more reason to stay there. And it could also be because Doumeki is there.. his new love or that someone he has conflicted complicated feelings with. And he doesn’t want to have something holding him back again. He is afraid. He wants to leave as he avoids this time the person he loves. And this is the perfect term.. running away.

He doesn’t want to be owned again by Misumi ever since chapter 1. He has been dodging him for 4 years already. The old man is persistent with this courtship. 

And then the time skip is reiterated again this time by Misumi’s voice and this time with an exact number. 4 years. 4 &$@^!*%@&× years. I have not yet moved on. I am still not over the “acceptance with grace” stage. I will maybe in time (give me 4 years too maybe?)

“You’ve worked yourself tirelessly in these past 4 years. Isn’t it high time you returned? Word on the street is that you’ve amassed yourself a ton of really dirty money” and Yashiro answered “Not to worry. I’ve laundered it as capital to a legit business so it can’t be traced.”

Let’s go back to chapter 2 Yashiro said “But to get out you’ll have to work a bit harder”

So is this why Yashiro worked tirelessly? He worked hard. He wants to get out. He wants to try legit. Our dear bird is trying. Let him fly out Misumi. For fuck’s sake he is 40 now.. Life begins at 40 so they say. For once.. Let him live a life he wants.

When Misumi still insisted, that’s when Yashiro smiled and changed into a provoking topic.. 

with Yashiro’s personality.. was he mad at Misumi’s insistence and dismissal of what Yashiro is trying to say that he wants to go being civilian.

His adamant face. His refusal to answer.

His laugh. And his sad smile.

Again I am not happy with Misumi’s slaps and “strip”, declaration of possesion and violent outburst in general (but again who cares about my vote and I’m just really bias and protective of this lost bird Yashiro). But Yashiro likes that violent streak. Or does he genuinely still?

Aaaand Amou. Amou. Amou. Amou. I’d like to pierce through that poker face. But well this little thought bubble is a little crack.

Amou has his own opinions. Amou has his own motives. Amou has his own possessiveness. Amou has his own jealousy perhaps. But Amou is not a bad person. What kind of love he has for Misumi I wish I know. What is his motive with Yashiro I also wish to know. But there is something in me that believes he is not wanting anything bad for Yashiro or Doumeki. I believe he is not a bad person.

I think car interiors are a good place to think about things. Love.. life..  secrets.. regrets.. 

“Even if it’s very unlikely, I won’t forgive him”… who is “him”? - Yashiro who will not return.. or Doumeki who opened Yashiro’s heart and made him think that he wants to strive for a different path.

Yashiro likes to think about love and life inside cars. Go back to chapter 4 and pensive Yashiro is thinking about Kageyama.

Jump to chapter 36 and pensive Yashiro is thinking about Doumeki (at least that’s my interpretation)

That eye can no longer see anything. And the last image burned into those eyes are maybe of Doumeki saving him, Doumeki getting hurt and almost died, and Doumeki at the hospital.

“The things I already gave up on at that time are still left here in this world.” This sounded so sad.. I read this and felt that he was left with his life which he was already throwing away that time and also with “feelings” that he wants to deny. He was left suffering with both.

And we have this… this is the page I almost did not want to see.

Why… Why Inami of all people.

My raw and unorganized thought on this is: So Inami is like Bran Stark and think of Yashiro’s ass as the throne. He became the king of Yashiro’s ass for these f******* 4 years. While Doumeki is the Jon Snow getting exiled outside the wall after all he’s done to protect/claim that ass throne and almost getting killed by helping to put down the undead king Hirata. All he got at the end are more scars and he became a living dead and became the very good boy to Tsunakawa. (This is probably my most unsugarcoated words in this. Sorry not sorry but I get really emotional - emotionally very angry - with the sight of Inami and what he do to Yashiro. Feasting on Yashiro being at his beck and call with his power on information and being the person who can exhaust Yashiro)

Give me Tsunakawa spin off I’d love it. And some background story too of his association/friendship with Amou.

And I’d love to see the years Doumeki spent with him if an honor and privilege will be given to see a flashback and have knowledge of that time that was skipped. So did Doumeki’s additional scars come from saving the kidnapped kid? A heroic… or suicidal deed? How many fingers does he still have? Was an additional finger cut off because the kid got kidnapped on his watch or at least he was one of the bodyguards? And he rushed head on (literally) to save the kid?

Doumeki grew old but doesn’t look like he grew up in life in a positive way. He is not the same baby bird Doumeki. He is not the cute Doumeki anymore. (And that makes me really sad. Maybe someday when it’s just the 2 of them he’ll have moments where he goes to being cute Doumeki again.. someday.. I hope so) But right now, this is a Doumeki whose life was sucked out of him, a man living in guilt perhaps (what with Nanahara’s words to him in the hospital rooftop), a living dead, a despairing man, a lost bird with no light to follow.

Kageyama once told Doumeki about Yashiro’s self destructive nature and that he feels like for Yashiro time stopped in his teens. Kage is right, and until now things are like that. And as for Doumeki he is back to being an empty shell. And them taking that downward plunge really broke my heart.

#saezuru tori wa habatakanai #saezuru thoughts #this is long coz it broke my heart

[southwindscoffee]

Deep dives and playlists

Part of my personality is that when I get interested in a topic, I DEVOUR it. I know I’ve mentioned this before, but in case you’re new, when something sparks an interest, I end up buying every book I can find about it, watching every movie, stalking every internet post, and learning as much as I can.

 Thoroughly.

 I’ve done this on disparate topics like classic Hollywood stars (Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, James Dean, Marilyn Monroe, Fred Astaire, and so on), Viking mythology (especially after reading the Magnus Chase books—I need a Magnus tattoo, I think), and Jack London (after visiting the Wolf House in Sonoma). Every Wes Anderson movie? Check. Every Sofia Coppola movie? [almost] Check. All the books on Bansky? Yes. A dozen books-plus on Yosemite National Park? Yes.

 I do this with music, too. I’ll fall in love with a performer and buy (or stream) every one of their albums, read their biographies, and buy all their art books. Today, I went on a bit of a trip through time, listening to some music I haven’t listened to since the early 90s. (Love and Rockets, anyone?) But the last ten or twenty songs I’ve listened to are so disparate, it’d be really hard for you to tell my tastes.

 In case you were wondering, they were mostly from me looking up songs I heard in movies, plus a few things from the Kid Cudi Spotify list:

 Blinding Lights by The Weeknd

Immigrant Song by Led Zeppelin

Symphonies by Dan Black

Crazy in Love remix by Beyoncé

Hangover by Psy

Wake Up by Arcade Fire

Get Low by Lil Jon

Loco in Acapulco by the Four Tops

Summertime by DJ Jazzy Jeff

Here You Come Again by Dolly Parton

Yo Perreo Sola by Bad Bunny

Supersonic Rocket Ship by The Kinks

Ooh Ahh by Grits

Thunderstruck by AC/DC (I know) and

Dear Mr. Fantasy by Traffic.

 I think that might be about as random as you can get. Just rereading that list makes me laugh (and if you want me to send you the Apple Music link, let me know). No wonder I love Beck, because he’s all of the above.

 Can you figure out where the inspiration came from for some of those? Mostly Marvel movies (Thor, Black Panther, Spiderman), Red, White, and Royal Blue (an amazing book), and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.

 Anywho.

 I don’t know what gets me started on one of these rabbit trails, but I know better than to hold back. Because these things often show up in my writing later on in strange ways. That’s one of the big things I’ve learned over the past few years is to trust my instincts and follow my enthusiasm, even if I think it’s fluffy or weird. If I’m passionate about it and want to know everything about it, I let myself do it. I don’t hold back.

  My current deep dive is into ballet. I took about 6 years of ballet as a kid, dropping it right before I was going to go en pointe. I don’t think it’s something I’ve ever truly forgotten about or gotten over. With the graceful elegant bodies and the emotion of dance…I can tell I’m gearing up into some sort of inspiration, but I don’t know what for. All I know is I’ve been watching Misty Copeland’s MasterClass and looking at books on technique and history.

 But I can’t explain WHY I’m doing this, and why now? Maybe because I saw an ad for the MasterClass (and I’ve watched quite a few of those)? Is it really that easy to get me hooked?

 Or is it something deeper? [We know I always love to go deeper into why characters do things. And obvs, myself.] But is it a need for beauty and expression, poise and strength, dignity and fragility all at once? Especially in the rough few weeks we’ve been having? Few months…?

 Some of it, I think, is that I need to follow my genuine interests, whatever they are. I think part of my recovery from depression was learning to not suppress positive emotion. I realize that sounds weird, but besides the guilt/anger/grief I was suppressing, I also had not let myself ENJOY things.

 I do now.

 What is it that you love? Can you let yourself do it? Or learn about it? Or watch it? Or listen to it?

 Even if it’s weird?

[theshinobiway]

Isn’t it weirder to ship the characters with yourself than with other characters?

Hey There!

First, thanks for reaching out with a question like this. I want to do your question justice because it’s actually a complex subject. To start, I have a few topics I’d like to touch on:

What does it mean to “Ship” yourself with a character?

How can it be Beneficial/Harmful?

Is it Strange?

What does it mean to “Ship” yourself with a character?                             

“Shipping” would be best defined as the following: Initially derived from the word relationship, is the desire by fans for two or more people, either real-life people or fictional characters (in film, literature, television etc.) to be in a romantic relationship.

This is fairly broad, but actually doesn’t even seem to include a provision for self-ships. Does that mean that self-ships are too uncommon to even mention in the definition of shipping? well, no, not necessarily.

Because the question was phrased “Isn’t it weirder to ship yourself with a character” the implication comes across as though my writing is actually a self-insert of myself as an author. Let me take a second to address this:

When I write headcanons/scenarios, I’m actually not writing self x character. I’m writing reader x character, which separates me mentally and emotionally from the subject matter. I envision myself within my writing only as necessary to write sensory detail, such as the following:

“The alcoholic haze that blurred your vision before gave the world a surreal, almost painted expression. Scenes that would not have fascinated you before were prime entertainment for the intoxicated. Lights danced around the street, peeking out from the silhouettes of the passers-by as they went about their ways, unconcerned for the magical visions that surrounded them. And Kami, and the smell of the food stands was enough to make you hungry for seconds.”

When I write emotional and romantic scenes, I personally pull from my own experiences with romance. My writing has developed in this area only because I’m in a current, long-term relationship that has the emotional depth the likes of which I’ve never experienced before. It would make me uncomfortable to envision myself that intimately with a character because I’ve already got a real-life s/o. They’re the actual reason it’s easy to write the emotionally-charged romantic scenes that I’ve grown to love writing. It’s complicated to explain, but much of my writing is “purely business,” though the emotions are real.

That’s just me, though. If a writer does scenes more based on fantasy or puts themselves more explicitly in those situations, those habits are part of their private writing process and are entirely within their right.

So now, I’ve got two smaller questions to cover:

If someone envisions themselves in their own writing with a character, is it wrong?No. I’ll talk about OCs under the next heading.

If someone envisions themselves with a character at all, is it wrong/weird?Actually, it’s incredibly normal. But there are certain things to be aware of which I’ll explain in a second.

How is it Beneficial/Harmful?

Shipping of any kind, as we have seen in a variety of fan communities, can have the effect of being incredibly harmful. Shipping is not okay when the following is true:

One or more parties is a real-life person who has not consented to the ship. (Tom Holland x Spiderman)

Both parties are real-life people not playing a character (Sorry, K-Pop fandom, you’re getting called out here.)

Both parties are real-life people [who may or may not have already expressed their discomfort with being shipped, it doesn’t matter.] (Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman, Zendaya and Tom Holland)

The ship is pedophilic in nature (Sebastian and Ciel from Black Butler)

Shipping of two fictional characters does not normally fall under this umbrella. Awesome! But wait, what about shipping with oneself? The real-life person has consented to the ship.

Fictional characters (fictional identities, such as Spiderman, Sherlock, and not Tom Holland or BC) are imagined and incapable of personhood, therefore they do not need consent the same way a real-life person does. The depiction of pedophilia is still a crime, therefore, they cannot be shipped.

All stories, by the way, were created because someone imagined them. I’ve often seen the phrase “self-insert” as a tool used to shame others who create an OC for a story. 

What this says, on a literal level, is that the creator of the OC has absolutely no right to create a character to their liking that lets them imagine themselves as part of a story they love or to share an original character that they created for an established story, no matter how much they deviate from the author. Other authors who create an original story, especially female authors, have faced this criticism as well. (Interestingly enough, this doesn’t come up nearly as often with male authors, unless a harmful depiction of a female is involved.)

Personally? I do not regularly envision my authors as their characters, and I know from personal experience that in my own creation of OCs and Characters that they can be incredibly detached. Many of my OCs share none of the same character traits as me, or if they do, it’s a few insignificant details.

Still, if an OC shares much in common with the author (as most firsts do) then that’s not an issue either. It has little impact on the story. Some people actually like reading the author’s OC because they find the character to be relatable, likable, or to have qualities they enjoy.

The argument that “Self-Insert makes the writing bad” is faulty. Writing is bad because the writing is bad. It is not bad because it’s a self-insert. The issues are that the character is uninteresting, static, or unrealistic.

Character x Reader/Imaginer shipping is harmful only when the fantasy prevents someone from living healthily because of their attachment to the ship. I am not a psychologist so I cannot explain this in psychological jargon, but any fantasy that creates a detachment from reality that is:

Debilitating

Causes serious hindrance to the fantasizer’s perception of reality

Affects the real-life ability to connect to others

is a harmful fantasy.

Fantasies that are enjoyed with a sense of impermanence and can be openly recognized as fantasies are not harmful or wrong, or really even “weird.” They are, once again, a normal part of the very human desire to imagine oneself in desirable situations.

The same way people create, commission, or request fanart, there’s a similar demand for writers. That’s where this blog falls in with the fandom. because I can’t feckin draw

What are the benefits? Two. And they’re pretty great ones:

In allowing themselves to indulge in romantic stories involving a character, many people end up discovering different traits about themselves (I’m passionate just like them! We both love XYZ!), or they can eventually isolate qualities they like in real-life people (“Hey, here’s a picture of all the anime characters I like, can’t you tell I have a type?)

It’s also beneficial for the sheer sake of entertainment for entertainment’s sake. People are allowed to have fantasies. They are allowed to share fantasies with friends/communities where this is a welcome topic. They are allowed to envision characters as they wish. They are allowed to imagine character romantically, the same way they could envision that “perfect s/o” that they made up all by themselves.

Frankly, I could care less who fantasizes about what. It’s all meant to be enjoyed and it’s nice if my writing gets appreciated along the way. People’s opinions about other things I disagree with don’t even cross my mind on a daily basis.

And unless it’s put in your face,  I firmly believe other people shouldn’t care about other opinions that much either. Isn’t it just draining? Let things just be.

Is it Strange?

Well, that’s relative.

A lot of people have preferences for ships in certain media, like Daenerys and Jon Snow. Other people prefer to just imagine about Jon Snow or Daenerys. There are just as many posts praising a single character as there are shipping them together.

So why is it then that reader insert can be considered strange if the celebration/admiration/crush on a character is fairly normal?

The reason for all of this is simple: Many people find that the sharing of fantasies is an uncomfortable topic. And on some level, it is. People are often sensitive about their own imaginations, keep that part of them private, and prefer not to share or have that shared with them. It’s a normal and acceptable boundary to have.

Would you gush to your boss about how much you love Bakugo from BHNA, or would you be more comfortable sharing that with a close friend who also loves watching the show? Other people are fine relating to others over shared fantasies. Which is why there’s a community for it, particularly here on Tumblr.

The only difference between a character that one person creates and enjoys in their own head and one that has been established in media, is that the latter character comes from another imagination already has a story attached to them that has been publicly shared.

Is it weird to have a piece of media—art, writing, what have you—that lends itself to the reader to be the main character? 

Well, personally, that’s left to the consumer of media. Some people like the “choose-your-own adventure books,” some don’t. Some like video games where you create your own character (like Skyrim) some prefer a set main character with concrete traits (like Samus Aran from Metroid.)

All creators seek to replicate, on some level, an experience that they want their consumers to be a part of. They do this through the lens of their characters. This takes various forms in TV media: 

Main characters that are “Stock” (like Kirito from SAO: Talented young Japanese male, dark hair, dark eyes, noble “hero” personality. He’s similar to many other protagonists from other harem anime) 

Or that have “Strong” Personalities (like Naruto from, well, Naruto: Similar to other shounen archetypes but he can be differentiated easily, he has a strong personality, unique traits, and quirks.)

Watcher(Reader) x Character falls into the “stock” main character: Not many definable traits, easy to imagine yourself as the character to fill in the gaps, etc.

Thus, these types of character x reader stories exist in popular TV shows, with characters that the reader has the chance to envision themselves with.

It’s hard to do watcher x character when a character needs at least some physical form. Otome Games, Harem anime, Average joe-schmoe gets the guy/girl, High school girl in a movie gets her crush, etc. all fall under the same genre of the “main character with general traits that fits the most common denominator.” Surprise! The intent is that you do put yourself in the main character’s shoes and you can idolize the guy/girl they go after.

Thus, character x watcher(reader) exists in popular media already.

It’s basically the written form of “create your own character in a video game, now you get to marry/romance who you want!” Guess what other forms of media let you romance your preferred fictional character?

Mass Effect

Skyrim

Stardew

Dragon Age

Sims

Etc.

Yep, the most popular video games out there. Does everyone play these types of games? No. That’s perfectly fine.

Here’s the final answer, though: Some characters do not exist in video games that allow a romance option. Some do not exist in tv series that allow the teasing of a possible romance with a “blank slate” main character.

Reader-insert writing is only the written form of an open-ended particular romance arc with a character, meant to be experienced in the same way you could explore that option within a suitor-friendly video game.

If you find OCs “weird,” or a reader insert “weird,” then it’s because that particular form of media simply does not attract you. You are free to disregard that part of the fandom, just as much as I disregard shipping content that does not cater to my own preferences.

Thanks for contributing to the blog!

#I didn't even go into the whole fictional character vs real people debate #but at this point it's a dead horse #it doesn't actually matter #anime #media #discourse #popular shows #naruto #sherlock #boku no hero #my hero academia #BHNA #fairy tale #skyrim #stardew #dating sims #character x reader #writing #writing tips #self insert #OCs #OC #fandom #fan community #celebrities #celebrity #fantasy #fantasies #marvel #throwing this to all corners of tumblr for those in the back

[jrobert1698-blog]

The Mandalorian Season One Review

The Mandalorian is a Disney+ original television show starring Pedro Pascal and created by Jon Favreau.  In addition to featuring a supporting cast of Gina Carano, Carl Weathers, and Giancarlo Esposito, the show also created a legend of our time: Baby Yoda.  Logging just eight episodes in its debut season, the show follows a conflicted bounty hunter as he attempts to honor the creed of his people, the customs of his profession, and his heart’s desire.  If you haven’t seen the show yet, I highly suggest you check it out.  Some spoilers lie ahead if you wish to turn back now; otherwise, “this is the way.”

I’ll be honest: I’m a really big Star Wars fan.  I should qualify that by saying I haven’t consumed every bit of the Star Wars canon, and I’m not extremely familiar with the Expanded Universe.  I know this qualifies me as scum; force choke me if you must.  Nonetheless, it is one of my favorite franchises dating all the way back to my early childhood.  This makes it somewhat difficult to review anything Star Wars related because I’m always subconsciously rooting for it to be good.  I allowed this to get the better of me with The Last Jedi, and I defended that film for far too long.  In short, I tried to approach The Mandalorian with an open mind but without letting my inner fanboy take over my sensibilities.  I’d like to believe that this review is as neutral as possible but if I do sound overexcited please forgive me. 

Before I get into The Mandalorian in detail I want to take a brief step back to 2015.  Before The Force Awakens cam out, everybody was excited to see Star Wars again.  Despite box office success, some people dismissed Episode VII as too derivative of A New Hope.  Others were just happy to have new characters, a diverse cast, and a competent director in J.J. Abrams.  I will go to the grave believing that the single biggest mistake Disney made since purchasing Star Wars was hiring Rian Johnson to direct The Last Jedi. While he is clearly capable of creating a great film in his own right, his vision clashed significantly with Abrams’ and the end result was a very divisive movie that split up the Star Wars fan base.  It made at least half the fandom bitter and jaded towards anything Star Wars that Disney produced.  People desperately needed something to unify them and make them remember why they love Star Wars again.  I’m happy to report that season one of The Mandalorian is exactly what the fans, and Disney, needed. 

I feel as though its only proper to begin a review of The Mandalorian by discussing Din Djarin himself as portrayed by Pedro Pascal.  I liked him in Game of Thrones and I like him even more here.  Some people might assume that having a mask cover your entire face makes acting easier.  To some extent this is true.  Not having to express emotions with one’s eyes and mouth alleviates some of the burden.  However, its also a unique acting challenge to make people get invested in a character whose face they can’t see.  The fact that so many love this character is a testament to good screenwriting and Pascal’s acting ability.  The audience actually roots for Mando to keep his mask on because the writers made it a crucial part of his identity.  Additionally, Pascal has to express emotion through the intonation of his voice, the speed at which he turns his helmet, and his deliberate pace when he walks.  This is far more difficult than people realize, and Pascal deserves a lot of credit for making this season the success that it was.

The character of the Mandalorian also stands out to me because in many ways he exemplifies the qualities of a good action hero.  Again, good screenwriting.  He comes off as a believable bad ass from the minute he slices a guy in half with a door in Episode 1.  However, unlike other Star Wars protagonists of late, he never feels overpowered either.  Audiences need to feel like their hero is in danger of getting hurt or dying in order for excitement to register.  There are many moments in this season where Mando gets his ass kicked.  He gets electrocuted by Jawas, gored by a Mudhorn, pinned down by Bounty Hunters and almost blown up several times.  However, like any good action hero, he always manages to bounce back and lives to fight another day.  This is why audiences truly respect this character who, at the end of the day, is just a human being like all of us. 

Another great, and perhaps underrated, aspect of this show is the amazing score by Ludwig Goransson.  I really liked his work on Black Panther as well and I’m looking forward to any future projects he works on.  This is the first time I can remember that anyone other than John Williams has made an original and memorable Star Wars score.  The main title is freakin’ awesome.  It’s the perfect blend of tribal mysticism and the military marches we’ve come to know and love.  Fortunately, this space opera comes with some great overtures to highlight it.

Before I sound like a total fanboy, let’s talk about a few issues I have with the show.  There are certainly issues you can nitpick from a canon perspective but that isn’t my main concern.  My biggest complaint would be the sometimes haphazard nature of the show.  Episode 5 in particular felt like a sizable departure from the main story.  Episode 6, while more entertaining, similarly broke from the overarching narrative to give us a little bit of Mando’s backstory.  I don’t necessarily have a problem with this video game mission approach to the show, but I do hope that some of these side quests get paid off more significantly in future episodes.  I also would have liked a more consistent emphasis on the supporting cast members like Carano’s Cara Dune and Weathers’ Greef Carga.  Even Kuill could have used more screen time if for no other purpose than to make us more attached to him before his untimely death.

My complaints, in the long run, are relatively minor.  Compared to my overall respect and enjoyment of this show, they pale in comparison.  One major reason why is that Disney spared no expense in making this show the best it could possibly be.  The visual effects, where I feared they might skimp, were better than a lot of feature films.  The show felt cinematic, like Game of Thrones did at its best.  The cinematography was mostly great as well.  I particularly liked Taika Waititi’s direction in the season finale.  That shot of Mando finally using a jetpack to latch onto Moff Gideon’s TIE Fighter deserves to be on a poster.  I would also be remiss if I didn’t mention the closing shot of Gideon holding the fucking Darksaber.  I can’t wait to see Giancarlo Esposito in an expanded role in Season 2 and hopefully beyond.  If he can play half the villain he did in Breaking Bad it will be a success.

And, of course, I had to save the single best part of this show, by far, for last. Baby. Fucking. Yoda.  This is one of the most well-concealed plot twists in recent memory.  Disney, somehow, did a fantastic job of keeping Baby Yoda out of marketing materials and trailers in the pre-release process.  When I first saw that adorable green face for the first time I somehow screamed, laughed and cried out in excitement at once.  This character is great for so many reasons besides obviously being the cutest thing to come out of 2019.  The Child makes Mando extremely conflicted and puts him in the most difficult quandary of his life: honor his code as a Bounty Hunter or follow his instincts and protect this child in need?  Baby Yoda also kicks a lot of ass for a one-foot-tall fifty year old.  His obviously strong connection to the force presents a myriad of options for his future: will he train as a Jedi, be a powerful vigilante, or turn to the dark side?  I’m kidding, but I’m also serious; he did force choke Cara Dune after all.  And he’s grown up among a series of explosions, laser beams, and punchy storm troopers.  That’s a pretty traumatic childhood.  Clearly, Baby Yoda has turned into a phenomenon and sparked an infinite number of memes, songs, and art.  I think it’s well deserved and I can’t wait to see more adventures in baby sitting with our little green friend. 

My thoughts on The Mandalorian can be expressed very simply: it’s fucking awesome. There is a whole lot to like about where this story is going and what Favreau and the slew of directors have done so far.  They’ve managed to inject genuine excitement into the fan base for what feels like the first time in a very, very long time. Additionally, Disney needed to knock one out of the park in order to salvage their reputation and preserve fan interest in one of their most valuable franchises.  Despite a few minor missteps, season one of The Mandalorian is a fantastic and I eagerly anticipate season two whenever it comes out.  If you haven’t seen it yet, go check it out.  Baby Yoda alone makes it worth it.  I have spoken.

Rating: 9/10

#the mandalorian #baby yoda #star wars #tv #disney

[news-mashable-yahoopartner-blog]

We Photoshopped an alternate cast of Avengers who almost got the roles

Avengers stans know the end is near, which means it's time to go back to the beginning. The very beginning.

In honor of the highly anticipated film, Avengers: Endgame, Marvel fans are reminiscing over just how much our heroes have grown since their first appearances on-screen. But we want to take you back even further that that — to the casting decisions.

We've come to know and love characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe so deeply that they feel almost irreplaceable. Chris Evans is Captain America, Chris Hemsworth perfectly embodies Thor, and Scarlett Johansson brings Black Widow to life. But the MCU group could have looked totally different today if casting directors had decided to go with some of the other talented actors who were up for the roles.

SEE ALSO: 'Avengers: Endgame' dazzles with epic and emotional world premiere

Here's a wild glimpse at what our Marvel Cinematic Universe could have looked like, had 12 crucial casting choices been different.

John Krasinski as Captain America / Steve Rogers

Blond, buff, and beardless Captain Krasinski.

Image: Mashable composite; Marvel Studios, Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Since the 2011 film Captain America: The First Avenger, the adorably charming Chris Evans and his beard have truly mastered the role of Cap. But the patriotic, shield-wielding hero could have been played by my ultimate crush, John Krasinski. 

In 2016, The Office star told Conan O'Brien he auditioned to play Steve Rogers back in the day. He even tried on the freaking suit, but ultimately took himself out of the running after seeing a jacked Chris Hemsworth walk by and losing confidence. Since 2011, Krasinski's bulked up for roles in 13 Hours and Jack Ryan. He also grew a great beard, so we have no doubt he could have played a buff, bearded, and perhaps funnier, MCU hero.

Other rumored names considered for Cap include Friday Night Lights star Scott Porter, Gossip Girl's Chace Crawford, Magic Mike's Channing Tatum, Garrett Hedlund, Michael Cassidy, and Wilson Bethel. Even Sebastian Stan, who was eventually cast as Bucky Barnes, tried out for the part.

Tom Hiddleston as Thor

"Hey can someone help me with this hammer?" - This Thor, probably

Image: Mashable composite; Marvel Studios, Karwai Tang/WireImage

Chris Hemsworth has a build, a voice, and a gorgeous head of hair that all scream "Thor." And yet, some other people still had the audacity to try out for the role. 

One of the most surprising was Tom Hiddleston, who I simply can't picture as our king of Asgard and God of Thunder. Hiddleston was instead cast as Thor's brother, Loki, which suits him marvelously. But let us take a moment to imagine what he would have looked like as the mighty hero.

Other actors almost worthy of holding Thor's hammer were Alexander Skarsgård, Charlie Hunnam, and Joel Kinnaman. Not to mention, Hemsworth's very own brother, Liam, auditioned to play Thor, which, I will admit would have been pretty interesting.

Emily Blunt as Black Widow / Natasha Romanoff

"No. Shan't!" — Black Widow to the bad guys

Image: Mashable composite; Marvel Studios, Steve Granitz/WireImage

Scarlett Johansson plays the character Natasha Romanoff remarkably, but it turns out Emily Blunt was the original choice for the role of Black Widow in Iron Man 2.

Sadly, Blunt was under a contractual obligation with 20th Century Fox to star in the movie Gulliver’s Travels, so she couldn't sign on to the Marvel film at the time. And though Buffy the Vampire Slayer's Eliza Dushku also showed a serious interest in the part, Johansson ultimately stepped in.

A (super) power couple.

Image: Mashable composite; Marvel Studios, Noam Galai/WireImage

Rather than starring alongside each other in Marvel films, Blunt and Krasinski went on to co-star in Krasinski's hit horror film, A Quiet Place, so everything worked out. Even so, our trusty Senior Illustrator, Bob, created this couple composite to emotionally torture me and also give you all a look at what could have been.

David Duchovny as Hulk / Bruce Banner

"The truth is out there."

Image: Mashable composite; Marvel Studios, Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic

Fans may recall Edward Norton played Bruce Banner in the 2008 film The Incredible Hulk, but he wasn't Marvel's final pick for the Avengers films. A lot of drama surrounding Norton's relationship with Incredible Hulk director Louis Leterrier and his negotiations with Marvel were reported, but Mark Ruffalo was ultimately signed.

Since we already know what Norton looks like as The Hulk, we decided to Photoshop David Duchovny, who was also rumored for the role at one point in time.

Timothée Chalamet as Spider-Man / Peter Parker

Oh will wonders ever cease?

Image: Mashable composite; Marvel Studios, Gregg DeGuire/Getty Images for Turner

Forget Tobey Maguire, Tom Holland is our Spider-Man now and we adore him. But Spider-Man also could have been played by Call Me By Your Name cutie Timothée Chalamet, who auditioned for the part along with others like Josh Hutcherson, Nat Wolff, Liam James, and Asa Butterfield.

My initial thought was that Chalamet wouldn't be dorky enough to play Spider-Man, but now WHO KNOWS, because he really pulls off the suit.

Zachary Levi as Star-Lord / Peter Quill

"Forget Fandral, I'm Star-Lord now." — Zachary Levi in a spaceship

Image: Mashable composite; Marvel Studios, Victor Chavez/Getty Images

We know Chris Pratt completes the MCU Chris Trinity as Star-Lord, but Chuck and Marvelous Mrs. Maisel star Zachary Levi was interested in the role back in the day, and honestly? He might've been great.

Actors like Jim Sturgess, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Lee Pace, Joel Edgerton, Jack Huston, and even Eddie Redmayne were also associated with the role early on, but Pratt joined the Guardians of the Galaxy family, while Levi went on to star in Shazam! and play Fandral in Thor: The Dark World and Thor: Ragnarok.

Olivia Wilde as Gamora

It ain't easy being green.

Image: Mashable composite; Marvel Studios, Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

We all know Gamora as the brilliant Zoe Saldana, who memorably stood up to her adopted father, Thanos, in Avengers: Infinity War. However, the green Guardians of the Galaxy character was reportedly offered to House star Olivia Wilde.

Nicolas Cage as Iron Man / Tony Stark

Iron Man and Star-Lord plotting to steal the Declaration of Independence.

Image: Mashable composite; Marvel Studios, Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images

Since Robert Downey Jr. played Tony Stark in the 2008 film Iron Man, we couldn't envision anyone else in the maroon and gold suit. Perhaps least of all, Nicolas Cage. And yet, he was one of the names rumored to be in the running.

Sam Rockwell and Tom Cruise were also on the list, but, I mean, we really had no choice but to Photoshop Cage.

Saoirse Ronan as Scarlet Witch / Wanda Maximoff 

"Call me Scarlet Witch like you said you would" — Saoirse as Wanda Maximoff, channeling Lady Bird

Image: Mashable composite; Marvel Studios, Isabel Infantes/PA Images via Getty

If Elizabeth Olsen hadn't been cast as Scarlet Witch we might have seen Lady Bird star Saoirse Ronan join the MCU family... maybe. 

Rumor has it that Joss Whedon had Ronan in mind when scripting Avengers: Age of Ultron, and the young star appeared to show interest in a role, saying, "I love Joss and I love those films, and I love his handle on them and how he portrayed these kinds of superheroes. So yeah, I’d love to be in it."  

Later, Ronan reportedly passed on the film, which is when Marvel decided to cast Olsen.

Morris Chestnut as Black Panther / T'Challa

Could've been king.

Image: Mashable composite; Marvel Studios, Paras Griffin/Getty Images

Chadwick Boseman absolutely slayed as T'Challa in Marvel's hit film Black Panther, and we can imagine no one better suited to rule as king of Wakanda. But in the name of Photoshop, here is Black Panther reimagined as Morris Chestnut, since he was among the names associated with the role.

Josh Hartnett as Loki

Whatever.

Image: Mashable composite; Marvel Studios, Charley Gallay/Getty Images 

Tom Hiddleston, who thankfully was not cast as Thor, was cast as Loki. But if Hiddleston didn't snag the role, it seems Josh Hartnett could have stepped up and took the villain's greasy black wig for a spin. Hmm...

Joaquin Phoenix as Doctor Strange

Why so serious?

Image: Mashable composite; Marvel Studios, Isiah Trickey/FilmMagic

Benedict Cumberbatch has nailed the art of portraying strange on-screen, so it's no surprise he shines as Marvel's Doctor Strange. But the casting list for Stephen Strange was ridiculously stacked. 

Joaquin Phoenix was one of the top contenders for the part, but explained in an interview with Little White Lies that he felt he made the right move in turning it down, explaining, "I think everybody was really happy with how things turned out. All parties were satisfied."

In addition to Phoenix, Jared Leto, Ewan McGregor, Oscar Isaac, Matthew McConaughey, Ethan Hawke, and Jake Gyllenhaal were also reportedly considered.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Ant Man / Scott Lang

Honey, I shrunk the JGL.

Image: Mashable composite; Marvel Studios, Steve Granitz/WIreImage via Getty

Finally, there's Ant Man. We know the shrinking superhero as the ageless Paul Rudd, but word has it that Joseph Gordon-Levitt was a front-runner for the part, too. If we're judging by our Photoshop, then JGL looks hilarious in the Ant Man suit. But who knows, maybe he could've been great.

It's fun to look back at this hilariously random group of superheroes who we could've been watching on the screen for the past decade, but really makes us appreciate the team of Avengers we ended up with.

WATCH: 'Avengers: Endgame' is smashing pre-sale box office records

#_uuid:4a5e337a-c05d-3a2a-ac6d-02bba236b868 #_category:yct:001000002 #_author:Nicole Gallucci #_lmsid:a0Vd000000DTrEpEAL #_revsp:news.mashable

[selkiewife]

I know i’m late on this but I wanted to talk about The Dragon Demands videos based on the Game of Thrones Season 8 blue ray commentary and the original archived scripts for Game of Thrones, Season 8. 

Basically, YouTuber, The Dragon Demands went to the Writer’s Guild Library where he was able to see the archived scripts of Season 8 of Game of Thrones. Both the archive scripts and commentary on the blue ray confirms that most of the destruction in King’s Landing was originally supposed to be caused by the caches of wild fire left by Aerys being accidentally set off by Drogon and not because Daenerys herself “went mad.” The script says that civilians being used as human shields are caught in the crossfire as Daenerys is targeting Lannister soldiers in a strategical maneuver right before she heads to the Red Keep to enact revenge on Cersei. However, Daenerys is never described as specifically targeting innocent civilians needlessly. 

My thoughts under the cut:

I have to say, that this makes me feel slightly better in a strange way. I mean, it doesn’t erase the bad writing, the ridiculous way the war against the white walkers ended, the misogyny, the inconsistency, etc etc ETC... but this crucial plot point was the one I just couldn’t let go of because it was just baffling to me. With other controversial plot points, I would disagree with them, but I could at least understand what they were going for and what the motivations of the characters were. But Daenerys turning on innocent civilians was truly baffling to me because it comes out of nowhere, is entirely out of character, her motivations are incredibly unclear, and was not set up at all. But with all the fandom discourse, I had really started to think that maybe I am lacking comprehension skills or something. But no, there is actually a reason it made no sense. The “madness” plot line was added later. Emilia Clarke was never given the opportunity to portray Daenerys as mentally unstable. Emilia was portraying grief and revenge on Cersei (as the original script and directors told her to do) in contrast to D&D’s final editing which was portraying the “mad queen.” No wonder it came across as completely false and bewildering- before we even get into the discussion of whether or not this is in character or not.

I think this is definitely more than just a theory that the script was changed pretty late in development because of all the evidence- it is confirmed by Emilia’s commentary, the Visual Effects team member’s commentary, and also the original concept art. But even if there wasn’t all that evidence, there is also the fact that the original ending makes so many other confusing things in Season 8 suddenly make SENSE. 

For example, when Jon confronts Daenerys in the throne room and he talks about the women and children that were burned, Daenerys responds with “She used their innocence as a weapon against me.” Which makes total sense for Daenerys to say if she thinks she is talking about civilians that were used as human shields that died in the crossfire. But it doesn’t make any sense if she carpet bombed the city- although it does make her seem delusional, which is probably why Dave and Dan kept those lines in- hoping it would make her appear “mad,” since Emilia was never actually given the opportunity to portray Daenerys as mentally unstable.

There is also the scene where Jon asks Tyrion, “Was it right?” to assassinate Daenerys and Tyrion responds, “Ask me again in ten years.” There is really no reason for them to have that dialogue if Daenerys really did target and massacre innocent civilians. That is the kind of dialogue they would have if they were discussing someone who had done something more morally ambiguous. 

Then there are the lines that are out of place in the final version but that would have made complete sense in the original wild fire version, such as Jon saying “now and always” as he stabs Daenerys. “Now and always” as any Theon fan will tell you, is a phrase that belongs to Theon and Robb and what they said to each other when Theon was pledging loyalty to Robb. Having Jon say this to Dany as he is killing Daenerys represents the ultimate betrayal but also calls back to Theon’s struggle and how difficult it is to chose between loyalties- between families. In this case, Jon is choosing the Starks over the Targaryens. Kit Harrington even says that this is motivation in an interview he gave with winteriscoming.net. But given the fact that in the final edit, Daenerys massacred innocent children and civilians on purpose, Kit’s motivation for Jon seems like a relic of an earlier script: 

Kit Harrington: “Jon essentially sees it as Daenerys or Sansa and Arya, and that makes his mind up for him. He choose blood over, well, his other blood. But he chooses the people he has grown up with, the people his roots are with, the North. That’s where his loyalties lie in the end. That’s when he puts the knife in.”

And Yara Greyjoy’s lines. She surprisingly remains completely loyal to Daenerys, despite the fact that she massacred the entire city for no reason:

Yara Greyjoy: I swore to follow Daenerys Targaryen. 

Sansa Stark: You swore to follow a tyrant. 

Yara Greyjoy: She freed us from a tyrant. Cersei is gone because of her, and Jon Snow put a knife in her heart. Let the Unsullied give him what he deserves. 

This kind of conversation only seems plausible if they are discussing Daenerys taking out Cersei after she had surrendered and killing human shields in the process, something I can see Yara completely defending- since she was always in favor of attacking King’s Landing as seen during her war counsel scenes in Season 7. 

There is also the Emilia Clarke quote in the behind the scenes video HBO put out after the episode where she explains that Dany was targeting Cersei herself:

Emilia Clarke: “It’s just... grief. It’s hurt. And she has this ability to make that hurt a little bit less just for a minute. And here she is, sitting on this ridge and there’s the emotion and there’s the feeling and the feeling is to fucking kill her.”

Note that she does not say “the feeling is to fucking massacre the city,” or “the feeling is to target innocent civilians.” She says “the feeling is to kill her” as in Cersei Lannister- who is responsible for the death of her dragon and Missandei- and who massacred countless innocents herself when she blew up the goddamn sept lol. 

Not to mention all of the set up lines between Cersei, Tyrion, and Varys about Cersei using “human shields” which never came to fruition in the final edit, now make complete sense:

Cersei: Keep the gates open. If she wants to take the castle she’ll have to murder thousands of innocents first.

Varys: Tens of thousands of innocents will die. That is why Cersei is bringing them into the Red Keep

And yet, lol, we never actually SEE Daenerys attacking the Red Keep. We never see innocent civilians inside the Red Keep. We only see civilians being massacred in the streets. 

I also remember people who had seen the post Season 8 Game of Thrones Live Concert saying that Ramin switched to footage of the other wildfire scenes in past Game of Thrones seasons during his Bells sequence, instead of showing the massacre of innocent civilians by dragon fire. I use to think he did that because Daenerys was his favorite character. But given what we now know about the original ending, he probably chose to show the wildfire scenes because that was what he had specifically written music for before it was changed- the destruction of Kings Landing by wildfire.

I really wish they had kept the original script the way it was. It still would have been an incredibly controversial ending. Daenerys still goes after soldiers and a Queen who is surrendering- and that action unintentionally leads to the destruction of the entire city. Jon Snow still assassinates his lover and betrays one part of his family for the other. But, it would have at least made logical sense. People would have gone back and forth over whether it was in character or whether it was a good ending. But it would have been something people would be able to actually debate on an intellectual level- the way we debate Daenerys crucifying the slavers (who themselves crucified children) or Jon Snow executing Olly... It is a very grey and tragic ending with a lot of moral questions. It still might have gone over like a lead balloon. But... the ending we have is so much worst because it’s nonsensical.

The only reason I can think that they changed it was to make Jon and Tyrion appear less morally grey for plotting Daenerys’ assassination. They probably knew that the ending would be very problematic and were trying to smooth that over by turning Daenerys into a super villain. Yet they did this too late in the process after already showing Daenerys to be heroic in fighting with the north and then having Emilia Clarke finish her filming still believing she was playing a complex and at times ruthless character but not “mad” or “evil.” And then, there is also the intensely problematic issue with them conflating mental illness with mass murdering super villain. Even if it had been clear throughout the entire season that Daenerys was losing her grip on reality and becoming more and more mentally unstable, it still would have been incredibly controversial and I am not entirely sure it would have made the men look any better anyway.

Even though it is tragic as fuck, at least with the original wildfire ending, all of the characters are incredibly complex and morally grey and you can understand the motivations for everything they do, even if you don’t agree with them. For example, if Daenerys attacks Cersei after she surrendered, it is wrong, but it is also completely understandable. And in my opinion, it’s even more understandable when you remember that Cersei cannot be trusted. She can’t be trusted to send her armies to the north- why should Daenerys trust her to surrender in good faith? This kind of ending would also have said something very powerful about unintended consequences. Even though Daenerys did not intend for so many people to die needlessly, they did because war is horrific. And that message becomes even more powerful if her motivations are understandable. But yeah, this kind of ending would have still been hated and debated but... at least the debates would have been more about the story itself rather than everyone trying (and failing) to make sense of what the fuck the story even is.

#anti got #game of thrones #anti d&d #daenerys targaryen #the dragon demands

[toogoodmusic]

TOO GOOD TUESDAY INTERVIEW: Vacation Club

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Being based in two different continents may be a challenge for some but trio Vacation Club has found a way to make it work. Based in Sydney, Australia are Brendan and Jack who represent the drums, keys and production in the band and have teamed up with mutual friend and Los Angeles based singer, Helena. Although they just released their debut single, “Falling” in April and their follow-up single, “Turn Around” in May, this trio has been working towards their musical careers for a few years. In that time they’ve managed to create a sound that is laid-back but focused, chill but exciting and low key but fun. Too Good Music was fortunate enough to grab an interview with the trio in which they talk about their music, what an actual Vacation Club would be like, who their dream collaboration was and much more. Check out the full interview below and let Vacation Club get you in the mood for summer!

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TOO GOOD MUSIC: Let’s dive right in from the beginning – how did you guys become Vacation Club?

VACATION CLUB: It all started a few years ago (yes years) when we (Jack & Brendan) started writing some songs. Our only issue was we didn’t really have someone to sing on the tracks. We met Helena through some mutual friends and when we met we mentioned tracking Helena’s vocals on one of the demos we had at the time. This ended up being our first single “Falling.” Since then we have worked a lot closer and written a bunch of songs all together.

TGM: That’s a good segue, what’s the story behind “Falling?” Why did you choose to have it be your debut single? 

VC: As mentioned, “Falling” was the very first song we ever tracked before we were even “officially” Vacation Club. The boys were out in LA one week and they messaged me asking if I’d be down to track my vocals on a demo they had in the works. The boys had never heard me sing prior to asking me hahaha! This song was somewhat the beginning of us three becoming a band and I think it just seemed right to be the debut single. The song at its core is about the vulnerable place you find yourself in when you fall for someone. Sometimes it can be losing control and letting all those honest and scary emotions come rushing. But ultimately trying to hold on to the good and not let the fears tear u apart.

Source: Vacation Club

TGM: You mentioned the boys being in LA - you guys actually bounce between Sydney, Australia and Los Angeles correct? What about each city do you draw inspiration from or how do they influence your sound? 

VC: Yes correct! In many senses our sound is very drawn from Australia naturally as Jack and Brendan produce the songs. But, at the same time, we are so influenced, and closely follow so many artists in the USA that we would say we also identify in many ways to Los Angeles.

TGM: And so how would you describe your guys sound?

VC: Our sound is very laid back and gives off a real chill vibe, something about it gives off an effortless ease.

TGM: I’d agree with that! Speaking of your song, you also recently released your second single, “Turn Around” – what’s the story behind that one? 

VC: Yes! We actually started working on “Turn Around” about two years ago as well haha. In the beginning we were playing around with a few different concepts lyric wise. But, last March Helena flew out to Sydney and we finished writing the song in the studio. “Turn Around” embodies a one sided love, where those important feelings are sometimes not reciprocated.

Source: Vacation Club

TGM: On Spotify you have an artist playlist titled VACATION CLUBBING which got me thinking what’s a night out with Vacation Club like? 

VC: I think we are all a little bit “lame” when it comes to this one. If we are all super honest, I think we all love a chill night out. When the boys fly into town, we tend to eat at our fave Italian spot, Jon & Vinnys (on Fairfax) A LOT and always hit up some vintage stores on melrose!

TGM: I mean doesn’t sound like a bad time! Going back to the name, if you guys ran an actual Vacation Club – what would be some of the perks of being part of the club? What would the club do?

VC: Definitely free breakfast bar all day. I always freak when places have a complementary candy bar so that’s definitely on the list. The club would be a place to just come a chill, somewhat like a day spa but more homely and welcoming and with good music playing all day of course.

TGM: And so what officer role would you each of you have at the Vacation Club?

VC: Hmmm, I feel like we’re all a little of everything… Our dynamic together is honestly so chill and easy going but we balance it all well. But, Jack is definitely the manager/treasurer, and I’d say Brendan does well with keeping everyone pushing forward creatively… Helena is kind of a content creator / our social media expert haha

TGM: Ha! Individually, if you could go on vacation (with or without the club) anywhere in the world where would it be? 

HELENA: My bucket list vacation spot is definitely Turks and Caicos!! JACK: I would be happy with just about anywhere in Europe ha BRENDAN: Paris

Source: Instagram

TGM: What’s the craziest or most surprising thing that’s happened in your career so far?

VC: This is really just the beginning for us but just releasing a song that you’ve put so much work into and to get to watch other people be impacted by it and enjoy the art you’ve made is such a insane feeling.

TGM: What would be your dream festival to headline? 

VC: Dream festival is Coachella even though we have all never been.

TGM: That’s a good one - what about your dream collaboration?

Helena: Most definitely ‪The 1975 Jack: I think Charlie Puth or LANY… Brendan: Kanye

TGM: And so going back, what would that Coachella set look like? What is a Vacation Club live show like? 

VC: Oh wow, we haven’t done any live shows yet, but we are so pumped to in the future! I just know we’d have the best time! It will definitely stay as the three of us, but with Brendan playing a live kit will add a whole new element to our sound.

TGM: I’m sure fans will be ready! And so a question everyone gets asked during these Too Good Tuesday interviews is, individually, if you could only listen to (5) artists for the rest of your life who would they be? 

HELENA: Only 5! Wow, I feel like my music taste is constantly changing but top five would definitely be ‪The 1975 the band CAMINO Drake The Japanese House Lorde

JACK: Bon Iver Coldplay The 1975 Khalid Charlie Puth

BRENDAN: Kanye The 1975 Bon Iver Khalid Francis and the Lights

Source: Vacation Club

TGM: And so to wrap up, what’s the rest of 2019 look like for you guys? 

VC: This end half of the year is going to be filled with so much more music (stay tuned!) that we’ve been working on and a couple of writing trips as well. We can’t wait!

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A HUGE shout-out to Brendan, Helena & Jack of Vacation Club for taking the time to answer some questions from Too Good Music! We’ll be ready for all the new music and that first live show. To keep up with the the band because to follow along with the links below:

            Apple Music | Instagram | Soundcloud | Spotify | YouTube

#music #interview #interviews #vacation club #too good tuesday #pop #alternative #chill #australia #los angeles #band #vacation #falling #turn around #spotify #singer #songwriters #charlie puth #the 1975

[robinrequiems]

I'D LOVE TO HEAR MORE ABOUT COMIC CON!DAMIJON AU AND KIDNAPPED BY LOA!JON AU (POSSIBLE DAMIJON ALSO SOUNDS PRETTY NEAT FOR THAT AU) PLEASEPLEASEPLEASEPLEASEPLEAS-

ALRIGHTY! HERES P1 OF KIDNAPPED: https://robinrequiems.tumblr.com/post/656471030683025408/ooo-jon-getting-kidnapped-by-the-league-caught-my

ILL ADD ONTO IT HERE DW:

comic con:

• damian was obviously robin, he had long since disappeared from his family to go and adventure off to go get some art from his favorite comic artists

• and plus he wanted to show off his own art

• he was so glad he wore a mask since like.. chaotic. a wayne? at comic con? that would stir drama up

• damian was walking around peacefully b4 he ended up running into jon

• jon was roughly 5’10-5’11, towering over damin’s 5’6

• they’re both like 15

• jon also ended up dumping his nachos onto damian

• damian wanted to stab him so bad

“This took me months to make, you asshole!”

“I’m sorry! I didn’t see you! I don’t exactly look d—“

“Excuse me?”

“That’s not what I meant— I’m so sorry— !”

“You’re such a prick!”

• damian ended up stomping off to find dick, dick luckily got all of it off his suit

• thank god, damian almost started screaming

• damian ended up running into the boy again, he doesn’t know how he got roped into taking a picture with the boy and another small kid

• all damian knew was that he was annoyed and mad and angry, which were synonyms, but

“I feel like you are mad at me..”

“You nearly ruined my costume!”

“I didn’t mean to!”

“Yet you did.”

• kon ended up running into them to, and laughed. the boy LAUGHED

“Oh god, it’s like walking into a comic book.”

“Konnie stoopp- you’ll make him even more mad than he is!”

• jon could feel the glare, even with Damian’s mask on.

• but.. somehow they kept ending up in the same spots

• jon bought damian a Robin themed sweatshirt, rhay was horrible quality. but he felt soo bad

• damian.. appreciated the gesture

• and they started talking abt the supersons and which comic was their favorite, damian liked the supersons of tomorrow arc while jon liked the whole challenge of the supersons series

• it was nice talking with someone who read the supersons comics, damian couldnt really talk to anyone about them since one; he didn’t have friends. kidding. he did, but they don’t read comics. two; he didn’t like admitting he liked reading those types of things

• they actually spent most of the day together, it was really fun, they took a lot of pictures together, damian got some for his private Instagram ( what? He’s a wayne. He needs a private insta. ) and jon got some for his main

• they ended up exchanged numbers at the end, but jon never learned his name, and all he knew him by was Robin and damian knew him as superboy

• but Damian liked having a secret identity, he didn’t have to worry about jon taking advantage of the fact he’s a wayne, but he could always just say his first name, but where’s the fun in that?

league: ( DONT QORRY ITS BUILDING UP TO DAMIJON ! )

• damian ended up getilting held prisoner

• not his finest moment..

• jon was his guard, ra’s would soon realize that was a mistake.

• damian doesn’t know how long he was in there, it felt like forever, but soon enough, he was able to get jon to talk to him

• but the conversations were small, it was like working with a blank canvas, but Damian could paint on that canvas ( god metaphors, I hate myself Jfc )

• pls wait: jon wears Jason’s league outfit from yj 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥺

• pls hes hot

• damian isn’t given much in his small cell, just a bed, and a few other essentials. he’s given the bare minimum to survive

• which is fine, but that didn’t stop him from complaining

• jon grew up pretty, damian soon realized ( but he grew up too fast )

• did damian grow up pretty? d wonders what j thinks of him

• damian tried to bring up Jon’s parents and how they missed him ( in truth, damian probably spoke to Clark and lois the most nowadays ), but jon got angry

• jon shot out a laser beam at Damian, damian was barely able to even dodge

• emotions. anger is an emotion. Damian saw a hint of green in rhose blue eyes. ( pit madness, fuck )

• damian remembers being dipped into the pit as a kid, he remembers the stinging pain of it

• god, damian feels sick.

• months for by, jon begins.. talking more, damian just grows more tired

• but Damian still hopes his family finds him

• ( who is he kidding? )

• damian tries to talk to him about those stupid baseball cards jon had ( the same cards damian just held onto when he was just losing himself )

• damian tries to do a lot of things

• jon becomes a good fighter, he begins filling out, and he gets a lot of muscle, unbeknownst to ra’s, Jon’s beginning to find himself again.

• ra’s should have known that the supersons would find each other ( they always would, even if one of them is currently a mindless slave )

• his mistake was thinking jon could ever kill him

• damian doesn’t know why ra’s thought that jon could kill him

• it was funny when they put jon and d into a pit, assuming they would fight, damian did put up a fight, he had too much pent up energy

• but jon was stronger, faster, and healthier

• so damian naturally lost, ra’s ordered a killing blow, damian server no purpose anyways

• but jon couldn’t

• he couldn’t kill his bestie

“D?”

#comic con au #kidnapped au