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crumpet-doodles · 6 months

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Hey! Umm, can y'all give me your headcanons for Solar from the Sun and Moon show? I'd just like to see them, no matter how weird you think they might be! Here are a few of mine:

☆ Solar might have claustrophobia

I honestly do think that he might have some sort of claustrophobia. I'm basing this off of two things that happened in the lore vids:

In "Eclipse MOVES IN in VRCHAT," when Moon says that he could convert one of the party rooms into a temporary living space for Solar, Solar says "I'm more uh... I don't really like rooms." I know this was probably a bit overlooked, but on my second re-watch I noticed it, and an idea started forming in my brain-

Another example is in "Eclipse has a NEW IDENTITY!? in VRCHAT," where as he and Moon walk through this long, horrendously yellowish-orange hallway, Solar says "I hate this room. This hallway." This could be taken as to how empty the hallway is (As Moon comments) or to how it reminds him of a Half Life 2 map. (I think that's what he said-) Again, this could be easily ignored, but it just adds to my little theory~

One more thing is just something I speculate- he might have claustrophobia from some kind of trauma from his old dimension, specifically from the Moon that he lived with. I think that his Moon was highly abusive to him, and I can imagine him being put into a similar situation as Sun, where his Moon trapped him in a magical barrier, and left him there alone for an unspecified period of time. I can also imagine Solar just generally being trapped in a room/isolated, because Moon didn't know what else to do when Solar first... appeared? I guess? In his Sun.

Also, he'd probably try to hide it because he thinks it's stupid.

☆ Solar is an insomniac

I honestly think that he just has a hard time sleeping, his brain is just running around everywhere 24/7- (Damn he's pretty relatable)

He will literally run himself into the ground before taking a break/resting. In "Eclipse has a NEW IDENTITY!? in VRCHAT," Moon calls him an "insane motherfucker" when he admits that he fixed the Daycare, Theater, Gift Shop, and more, in a week. A WEEK. Then after a tour and some talk, he passes out from running out of battery, due to being on 1% charge. He's overworking himself. He needs sleep.

HE SOUNDS ABSOLUTELY EXHAUSTED IN "Lunar and Earth's GROUP THERAPY in VRCHAT," LIKE BRO- He said he was working on 2 separate things, both for 5 hours straight- He really needs to sleep- get him a beanbag or something-

Also, this could be another trauma-related thing, where he just doesn't feel safe sleeping, or he has nightmares. However, this is probably just me overthinking and reading too much into this situation.

When he DOES fall asleep, it's usually in the most arbitrary places ever. At the desk in the daycare, in one of the play structures, etc. I... have a feeling that he's probably fallen asleep on that green little mat/platform thing in the ball pit before. Or just literally in the ball pit itself.

☆ Solar's just generally insecure about his looks

Looking like the OG Eclipse model, he probably has some issues with what he looks like, and is most likely frustrated about how people keep mistaking him for Eclipse.

Also, coming back to the whole "his dimension's Moon giving him trauma" thing. His Moon probably called him a lot of things, all of them horrible. Solar keeps mentioning how aggressive and angry his Moon was, so again, it would fit the profile.

In "Lunar and Earth's GROUP THERAPY in VRCHAT," When Solar talks about him working, Earth says "That might have something to do with you not feeling like you fit in." Please, he needs comfort and more therapy-

☆Solar is touch starved

Do I even have to explain?

Also, I feel like even though he IS touch starved, he doesn't... realize it, exactly. He has really closed off body language (For some reason I can imagine that his idle pose/stance is having his arms crossed) and is just generally unsure about how he should properly show physical affection.

Do you know what I mean? Like, you think you just don't like physical touch, but it just turns out you were full of anxiety on how to properly show it that when somebody DOES end up giving you a hug or something similar that the realization just... hits you? Really hard? (Dear Stars this is over-specific am I ok???) Solar might also be comfortable with one person/small group of people actually touching him. Or if people ask. (Ok I need to shut up, now I'm just projecting my personal experiences into my headcanons for him-)

This could also be attributed to the insecure thing but eh.

Quick thing I'd also like to say, his model, (or "suit," as they call it in the show) is slightly different from the other's, because as his dimension's Moon stated, it was an older model that never got used. I think it's just lankier, skinnier, and maybe has a tail, as these features were being experimented with for the newer daycare attendants, the ones who actually got used (Solar's dimension's Sun and Moon.)

(Note: I might edit this post as things change/lore vids drop!)

(Damn, this turned into a whole-ass essay-) So yeah! If you've made it this far, thank you, and if you have any headcanons of your own that you're willing to share, please do! I'd be delighted to see them!

#tsams #tsams Solar #headcanon #Y'all please this took me too long-#nice eclipse #tsams nice eclipse #give me your headcanons #I shall gladly devour them #In the most normal way possible #the sun and moon show #The sun and moons show Solar #tsams good eclipse

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madreemeritus · 8 months

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「Kissie Spot」

(Lon Chaney Erik x GN Reader) Romantic, sugestive but SFW

Another fanfiction, yay! This is Lon Chaney's version of Erik because the silent movie is my favorite adaptation. I'm not used to write self-insert fanfictions soooo plz give me a break 🥹 the Reader is gender neutral by the way 👍🏽 have good reading :3

You woke up after a comfortable night sleep in a bed shaped like a swan. The few seconds after awakening were enough for you to remember the events of the previous day: you were courted by the Phantom of the Opera himself, the mysterious specter in the darkness. He brought you to his subterranean abode and trusted enough to tell you his true name: Erik. Gods, he loved you! The fearsome nameless legend that prowled the theater was madly in love with you. It felt weird, like acidic butterflies dancing inside you. It was strange, even frightening at one point, but at the same time… tender. Like a hidden desire touched on in the most libertine of nights.

You get up in bed and observe the room around you, everything was perfectly architected as a dark lair. The style of the catacombs reminded you of the so-called 'barbarian architecture' of the Dark Ages, a name given by the Renaissance that sounded rather insensitive towards 'gothic' sculptures. Everything that referred to the occult, the demonic and the incomprehensible was fascinating to you, and apparently, to the Phantom as well.

Your thoughts are interrupted when macabre and terribly dramatic music is played on the pipe organ. The melody rang through your ears like a siren's voice seduces sailors; it was impossible not to lean towards the triumphant spectacle. If, on just one instrument, music disturbingly penetrated your soul, you imagined what it would be like to hear the piece in a large and phenomenal orchestra. You left the room and headed towards the masked man. He played the pipe organ like no other musician, it was the darkest, most intense and most pleasurable way you will ever witness. You approach Erik and tap him on the shoulder, eliciting a noticeable anxiety that sends shivers down his spine.

— Oh! You're awake... - Erik said, sighing - I... I made you breakfast. You can stay here for as long as you like.

Erik, in contrast to the chivalry of the day before, felt shy and unsure of himself when talking to you. It's like he can't believe you stayed in his house without dying or running away in the middle of the night.

— I appreciate it, but I'm not hungry right now. – you answer, running your fingers gently over his shoulders – What song was that? Did you write it?

— Oh, yes – Erik pointed to the sheet music in front of him, written 'Don Juan Triumphant' – Ever since I laid eyes on you, this song echoes through my head. The sound of love triumphant.

If it weren't for the ominous, pale mask, you'd be able to watch Erik's face redden – just as your own face did. He played again, this time less immersed in the feeling. Visibly uneasy... your presence was like a test to him, and even more so for his proximity. You decide to break that invisible barrier, sit down next to Erik and wrap one of your arms around his back.

— It must be a divine triumph, judging by that small piece of the play.

— A-ah, yes... - Erik replies, feeling a little more courageous with all the praise he received – I put all my inner demons into this work. But there is beauty in everything, even the most vile of gargoyles... in my music, that's how it is.

Comments of that nature always came out in a sad tone from the Phantom's lips. Judging by his anxiety and the mask that covered his face at all times, you'd come to the conclusion that he had a lot of issues with self image. After all, who would isolate themselves from the world, in a catacomb, if not to escape the horrors outside? But you wanted Erik to trust you, just as you placed your trust in him when you accompanied him underground.

— Erik – you call him, resting your head on his shoulder – Can I see your face?

Upon hearing this question, Erik shuddered and stopped playing, abruptly pulling away from you.

— D-don't ever ask me to do that! Please, my angel, I... I don't have a face. What I have is the remains of a face, a carcass abandoned and despised by the Gods. No one must see my face... especially you.

— Why do you say that? You do not trust me? – you approach him again and join your hands in his.

— I… I trust you, but… – Erik stammered, his eyes filled with tears – Not even my parents loved me. They rejected me for my face, just like everyone else... that's why I live in hiding, to avoid going through the same horrors as before.

Your chest ached with sadness hearing those harsh words. You couldn't imagine how a father, a mother, could be so cruel to their own child! You had no idea how broken Erik was, after so many years in a cycle of pain and rejection. You slowly approached and hugged him, feeling him shudder at first. Erik got emotional and hugged you back, still a little hesitant; his hot tears fell onto your shoulder.

— I'm not going to lose all feelings I have for you just because you have a different face. You are an amazing and lovable person, Erik. Please don't let anyone convince you otherwise.

— Oh… – the masked man laid his head on the crook of your neck, barely able to believe that moment.

Erik pulled away from the hug, his hands shaking and sweating cold. He looked paler than usual. With his head down and his gaze averted from his, Erik takes his hand to the mask and slowly removes it, revealing more and more the morbid and slightly yellow skin. Once his face was completely revealed, he kept his eyes tightly closed as his body became more and more trembling. His skin was abnormally glued to the face, forming a cadaverous image with two holes for a nose. His eyes were very sunken, just like a skeleton. His thinness, what little remained of his lips and its strange coloring referred to the very image of death. Furthermore, the black cloth that accompanied the white mask revealed a bald spot on his head.

Silent seconds – that seemed like hours – were enough for you to analyze that deformity as a whole. The only thing you dared to do was reach your right hand to Erik's face, stroking his cheek. He immediately let out a sigh, scared at first, but relaxed as he felt that caress.

— You see? I said nothing would change between us. – you finally said.

— Oh... - Erik finally opened his eyes and had the courage to face you. He covered your right hand with his, intoxicated by your touch – You... are truly... an angel. My angel…

Erik chastely kissed the palm of your hand. You didn't stop there, instead you hugged him tightly. He didn't say anything else, just sobbed in a silent cry. There was no need to say anything at that moment. While he was distracted – hopelessly immersed in your embrace – you took the opportunity to tuck your face into the crook of his neck, inhaling the sweet masculine scent he had. Erik jumped at the scent he received.

— Wh-what are you doing?

— Sniffing you, silly. – Don't you like it?

Erik thought for a moment. He didn't want to be inappropriate, too needy, or even sound like a pervert. Yet, your fondness was undeniable... it was like an addictive drug he didn't want to retire from. He nodded slowly in affirmation, his face was noticeably flushed. You continued the affection, sniffing and kissing Erik's neck as he let out short, shy sighs. You dared, kissing even his cheek; you felt his salty tears on your tongue, which only emboldened you more. With your hands, you lowered Erik's head to your shoulders and placed a long kiss on his bald head.

— Y-you don't have to do that – he said, stuttering and shuddering, while you continued to place several kisses on his head – I'm not, ah!, I'm not worthy of this affection…

— Yes, you are worthy – you said, finally – And I am willing to kiss all over your body, if you allow me.

Erik smirked and bit his lip, like a child eager for a gift. He stands up, still shy but feeling a slight surge of confidence.

— So... Do you want to go to your room?

You smiled, excited by the invitation, and took Erik's hands.

— I'd love to – you said at last, leading him to your room where you've woken up that morning.

Doing your best to respect his space and time, you wait for him to sit on the bed and continue trailing kisses down his face and neck. Erik gently hugged your waist, sliding his fingers down your back once in a while. He was very quiet, but always flushed and smiling as he received your touches – sometimes he let out a soft giggle. Your hands dared to lift the fabric of his pants, revealing the scarred, pale skin of his legs, which made him pull away again.

— Oh! Sorry, I didn't expect that! – he said awkwardly – M-my legs are not a pleasant sight…

— What do you mean?

— Look at me, I'm sickeningly skinny, I barely have any body hair, and… well, those blue veins are very noticeable. And not just on my leg...

— Erik… – you ran your hand over the musician's trembling shins – I think you're beautiful from head to toe. And jumpy veins are normal, everyone has them.

— But mine are different! It was... years... years of slavery that punished my body so much... these scars, they...

— They don't matter. All of that is in the past, Erik. You're here with me – you kissed him passionately on the lips, which made him gasp over your nose – That's what matters now.

You slowly lowered yourself over his body, placing a light kiss on his leg. Feeling him approve of your attitude, you continued kissing each scar, each bluish and bulging vein that caused so much agony and bad memories. Erik managed not to make any undue noises, instead he lied back on the bed and closed his eyes, appreciating your affection. But he wasn't prepared for your next step: you lifted his pants higher and kissed his inner thigh, which made him accidentally let out a moan of pleasure. It had mere seconds, but loud enough for you to hear. He was terribly embarrassed, redder than a strawberry.

— F-forgive me, I… tried not to…

You laugh softly and grab him by the waist.

— It's okay, Erik. We don't need to go further if you don't want to – you crawl towards his chest, until their faces meet – But there's no need to be ashamed of feeling pleasure.

With those words, Erik felt as if pounds of guilt and anxiety had been lifted off his shoulders. He felt comfortable, happy, calm, all around you. During his years living under violence, slavery and isolation, he never thought he would find a place so comforting. This place was you, your love, your hug, your smell, everything you could offer.

— Oh… my angel… I couldn't ask for a better gift.

— I say the same – you answer, kissing him again on the lips and feeling his skin rubbing against yours – I love you, Erik.

He smiled while more tears ran down his face. The Phantom of the Opera was loved, loved for what he was. He was saved by your love.

#the phantom of the opera #erik #art #gothic #gothic literature #gaston leroux #my writing #fanfiction #lon chaney #poto 1925 #the phantom of the opera 1925 #erik x reader #self ship #self insert #x reader #poto

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ranhaitanisgf · 4 months

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Can I have “cafe love” with Senju. She always goes to the cafe and orders the same order. And reader memorized it. Then one day Senju ask reader on a “movie theatre date” and of course reader accepted it. They have a great time together with a lot of fluff and cliche movie date tropes like sharing popcorn and holding your partner when your scared of the scene. Finally a kiss and the end of the date. Does Senju have a motor bike? Thank you, I hope this isn’t too much trouble. Have a good day!

— senju kawaragi [akashi] // cafe love // movie theater date

☆ ˎˊ˗ hiii anon! thank you for requesting senju & i hope ur still around after i was gone for so long !! i made this hcs so that i could fit all ur ideas in, i hope u dont mind ! i hope everyone enjoys !! xoxo

☆ ˎˊ˗ fem!reader implied

☆ ˎˊ˗ wc ; 1.2k+

masterlist || 2k masterlist

❥ everytime you hear the revving of a motorbike getting closer while you’re working, you begin to type the same order into the register, waiting for the flash of white hair to walk into the store.

❥ for the last few months, the cafe has gained a regular; a girl named senju, (or at least, that was the name she gave for her order every time). you hadn’t interacted with her a whole lot outside of taking her order, but you could tell from your interactions that she was a friendly and outgoing girl, (she was also extremely pretty, but that was another conversation for another day).

❥ professionally speaking, you weren’t entirely sure if it was a good idea for you to try and be friendly with a customer, (much less even think about asking them out…) so you were happy with just admiring her from afar, waiting for her to come into the store every day.

❥ apparently though, she wasn’t.

❥ it was on a completely normal day when she randomly asked you out, which strayed from the script that the two of you usually had. you’d just stared at her for a second, shocked and unsure of what to do next, (she waited very patiently as you tried to logic your way into finding an answer).

❥ eventually, you found words, accepting her offer. her face had immediately stretched into a gorgeous smile, reaching over the counter and grabbing a pen from the pocket of your apron. when she gestured for your hand, you’d been confused, but you were already too flustered to think anything of it. you gave her your hand and she gently grasped it, dragging the pen across your skin until the writing read her number and full name.

❥ she walked out without ordering anything, waving to you through the window of the cafe and driving away, leaving you in quite the stupor.

❥ after your shift you hesitantly texted her, unsure of what to say. your hesitance was immediately gone when she instantly replied back, using many emojis to express her happiness that you next back.

(y/n): hello! it’s (y/n) from the cafe! :D senju akashi: OMG hi! (>▽<) i’ve been waiting for you to text!! ＜("0 ")＞ senju akashi: are you free tomorrow? let’s go see a movie! (#^.^#)

❥ the next day, (after you promptly tossed all of your clothes out of your closet looking for an outfit) you met senju outside the station next to the movie theater, feeling a bit nervous about the whole thing. you’d never imagined that the cute girl who always came in would ask you out, so you were hoping that you wouldn’t be letting her down…

❥ when she showed up, all you could do was stare at her and smile for a few moments; she looked absolutely beautiful. it seemed as if she had put on a light amount of makeup further enhancing her features, (seriously, was this real right now?! were you about to go on a date with this gorgeous girl!?).

“wow! you look so beautiful!!” “haha, thank you! you look so pretty too!”

❥ senju hooked her arm through yours, immediately breaking the awkward contact barrier between the two of you as she began to walk in the direction of the theater, (you were thankful that she was so straightforward because you felt like an emotional mess at the moment).

❥ when the two of you entered the theater, she flashed a black card when buying the tickets, which you tried your best not to gape at. nonetheless, she caught you and just giggled at you expression, poking your cheek and bringing you to the concession stand.

“my brother gave me his credit card, so we can go crazy!!”

❥ well. her brother must be very rich…

❥ arms full of popcorn, junk food and drinks, the two of you made your way to the theater the movie was playing in. any awkwardness or nervousness you might have felt about going out with senju had vanished, leaving you with the fluttery feeling in the pit of your stomach and the amount of fun you were having.

❥ you hadn’t even been sure what movie the two of you were seeing, but you laughed a bit to yourself when you realized it was a horror movie; terribly cliche, but strangely, you didn’t mind as long as it was with senju.

❥ with the popcorn bucket between the two of you, the movie began. the first half wasn’t really scary, so you and senju were just watching with a bit of boredom, making comments and joking to each other about strange moments. seeing her smiling in the darkness of the theater was making you feel some type of way; your heart was beating slightly faster the entire time, your giddiness evident from the smile that didn’t seem to leave your lips the entire time.

❥ by the second half of the movie, the horror had progressed a bit more, leaving the two of you a bit more scared as the scenes continued, (you and senju swore to protect each other if someone came out from behind to murder everyone).

❥ there was one particular scene that freaked the both of you out, making you both instinctively reach for each other, your hands clasping together and squeezing as you both stared at the screen in fright. when the scene was over, you and senju looked to each other, laughing a bit and continuing with watching the movie, (neither of you let go).

❥ by the end of the movie, the two of you had moved a lot closer to each other, which you really hadn’t realized until the lights turned on in the theater. neither of you minded though :)

“you’re not planning on taking the train home this late, right?” “hm? oh, haha, i was…” “let me take you home!”

❥ you hadn’t expected that you would be riding home on a motorbike of all things today, though you suppose you should have considered the possibility since you were going on a date with senju, the girl who always rode her motorbike to the cafe.

❥ you hadn’t ever ridden one, so you had to admit that you were a little bit nervous at first, but senju made you feel more comfortable, telling you to hold onto her as tightly as possible if it made you feel better, (it made you more flustered, but you were happy to be close to her).

❥ you felt a bit sad when you noticed that you were almost home, holding onto senju a bit tighter, (you really didn’t want to say goodbye yet). when she arrived in front of your house, she killed the engine, giggling a bit when she realized you hadn’t let go of her yet.

“i’ll text you right when i get home, and we can plan another date!” “hm, okay…as long as you promise.” “i promise!!”

❥ you finally let go of her, getting off of her motorbike. senju walked you to the entrance of your house, giving you a sweet smile as she held your hand. before you could give yourself too much time to think about it, you leaned forward pressing your lips against her cheek for a few moments. when you pulled away, there was a shocked expression on her face, her eyes wide as she looked at you.

“next time…i’ll give you an actual kiss. get home safe! bye bye!”

❥ you chuckled when you saw that she still had the same shocked look on her face, blindly nodding at your words.

“bye bye…”

❥ you were really looking forward to the next date :)

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wen-kexing-apologist · 9 months

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Hi....If you don't mind, can I ask, what are your top 10 (or top 7) favorite media (can be books/ manga/ anime/movies/tv series)? Why do you love them? Sorry if you've answered this question before......Thanks....

Thank you for the Ask! Typically I find these questions difficult because I consume a lot of content and I love so many things dearly, and I inevitably forget about things that I cherish and then feel bad about it. So here are 10 of my favorite pieces of media I’ve pulled from my mental list of all the things in the world that have made an impact on me, I’m going to do these in alphabetical order

180 Degrees Longitude Passes Through Us

I only saw this show recently but it is an absolutely gorgeous piece of media. I have a bit of a theater background and this show definitely reads like a stage play, in the dialogue, in the setting, in the way that Nike carries himself around the space as Inthawut. This is a perfect piece of media in my opinion. The performances are a masterclass in acting, the use of vertical lines that place barriers between the characters or that cage them in, the complicated dynamics between the characters, the throughlines of grief and pain and loneliness that just radiates out of the screen for every character in this story. I have been through some shit, let me tell you, but there was a ten second moment in the final episode of this show that sent me in to the worst emotional distress of my entire life for a totally innocuous, complete reasonable, and minimally tragic scene and for that it does deserve immense praise.

Big Eden

I am making up for forgetting to put Pike on my Favorite Characters list by remembering to put Big Eden on my favorite media list! I saw Big Eden for the first time in my freshman year of college. Back then I was not aware of, or at leas was not acknowledging my own queerness, and to find a film like this one just healed a part of my soul I didn’t know was wounded. When I say I watched this film back to back two or three times when I first saw it, I mean that this is one of if not the only film that I have immediately started from the beginning the second that the credits started rolling. I love this film for what it gave me, an older queer romance, non-existent homophobia, PIKE! Some of the greatest lines of all time, that to this day get reactions out of me, mainly:

“I just want things to be nice for him”

and

"Well, screw you, Henry Hart. I do know what love is. You are my family. And I'm sorry... I'm sorry if that's not good enough for you."

And

“Why can’t you see how much love there is that people want to pour on top of you? I can’t help thinking that your grandma and I didn’t do right by you somehow. I feel like maybe we taught you something wrong, because you won’t tell me who you are. Did we teach you shame? Did I teach you that? Because it would break my heart if I had,” (watch the scene here)

Don't let the stars go out at night, don't let the moon break your heart, indeed.

I Told Sunset About You and I Promised You The Moon

ITSAY/IPYTM is two parts of one continuous story and therefore counts as a single piece of media.

I just got done gushing about this show the other night, because for me it is a foundational piece of queer media. It is one of my favorite pieces of media, point blank, period. Queer characters are allowed to complex, three-dimensional, and frustrating. They are allowed to make mistakes, and hurt the people they care about in their quest to better understand themselves. They are human. And the emotional honesty and vulnerability that the script and the actors showed struck deep in to my experiences figuring out my own identity. It has some of the strongest characterization that I have ever seen in media. The actors commit to the craft, the production team clearly put love and care in to every aspect of this show, every frame of it. The director trusted the audience to understand what was happening and trust the actors to play with silence. There is so much silence in this show because the actors portray so much with just the way they move around the space, the way they carry themselves, the way they look at each other. It is a gorgeous, gorgeous piece of media. It took me three watchthroughs of I Told Sunset About You before I was able to form a single analytical thought about it, because the first time I saw this show my brain went fuzzy. This show rewired my brain and changed my DNA.

And as a side note, anyone that thinks that Billkin is a bad actor or a bad crier can kindly meet me outside the Denny’s parking lot at 3am because I will not stand for Billkin slander in my household. That man is absolutely demolished the role of Teh. The constant fidgeting, the way his whole body just screams out whatever he is feeling without him ever having to say a word.

Moonlight Chicken

I have talked numerous times about why this show remains my favorite, and a lot of that has to do with the community that I gained around me because of it. But stepping back to the piece itself, I love how much this show is really dedicated to the importance of community. To showing the different mindsets of three generations of queer people, the way they struggle and don’t. The conversations that happen around poverty, and disability, and grief. The way that Li Ming and Heart are screaming to be understood. The way Jim has been hurt too many times and how that makes him scared to start over with Wen. The way Aof was able to take this BL structure and transform it into the story whose primary focus is on how a queer elder keeps and cultivates a relationship with his queer nephew. Jim and Li Ming’s relationship is the focal point of this show and I am so grateful to have that. The acting is phenomenal, the lighting is incredible, and it is a very technically strong piece. I know that Aof tends to tell us sad gay stories, but by god am I in love with every single Aof show I have seen (GOBK(with Jojo), ATOTS, HCTM, BB, MLC)

Pushing Daisies

What a deeply deeply tragic story wrapped up in the shiniest paper! I will never get over the fact this show got canceled because it is one of the greatest of all time. I love that Lee Pace has acknowledged how queer this show is, and how intentional that was, even though it was not discussed at the time of its release. Like, fundamentally this is a show about a man named Ned and his partner Chuck who can never touch. I’ll talk about this a little later too, but I am just such a sucker for stories where people can’t touch each other. I love the angst in it, the wanting to, the need to be intimate, to comfort, to care for someone and just…not being able to hold them. I loved watching how Ned and Chuck navigated this issue, the kissing through plastic wrap, the dancing in beekeeper suits, them getting excited for winter cause it meant they could wear gloves and hold hands like any other couple.

This show is hilarious and funny and fast, with a really intriguing concept and an extremely clear vision and it did not deserve the end it got.

I heard it might be on HBO Max, not sure if that is still true, but if you can find you, and you haven’t seen it, you should absolutely watch it, and if you have seen it, this is your reminder to watch it again.

Sense8

Before I begin, I just want to say

FUCK

NETFLIX

Once again, another incredible show, with very interesting themes, and things to say was canceled before it’s time. I will die mad about the fact that Netflix did not give this show the room it deserved to tell the story THAT THEY PITCHED TO NETFLIX AS A FIVE SEASON ARC. This show was so good, it got my homophobic dad to watch the whole thing without even squirming at the gay sex (like he did when he watched Game of Thrones).

I love love love love love this show. I love the way it connects people from all over the world, I love that these random strangers become a family, I love what it says about every day people being important, having important skills, and how much that can vary from being a good actor, knowing chemistry, driving, and being a skilled martial artist. I love how sex positive this show was. I love the utilization of orgies to demonstrate the way these characters are all connected to each other. I loved the mystery behind it all, they way the function of this psyllium network got progressively more understandable to us as time went on in much the same way that the characters get used to it. I love the humanization of drug users, that it touches on the struggles of trans people, queer people, eldest daughters, poor people, etc etc etc; ON BODY AUTONOMY IN MEDICINE!!! I truly believe there is something for everyone in this show and even though I am mad we really only got a two hour filmed storyboard of general concepts the Wachowski sisters were planning on diving in to over the next three seasons, I do love with my whole heart, for the memes, that Nom’s mother gets over her transphobia as a result of one very good weed brownie.

Six of Crows and Crooked Kingdom

I got in to these books after seeing the first season of Shadow and Bone on Netflix. Full disclosure, I did not read the Shadow and Bone trilogy, I will not read the Shadow and Bone trilogy, I do not care about the Shadow and Bone trilogy. This is a Crows Only household. Six of Crows and Crooked Kingdom are very incredible heist books first of all. The main plot is compelling in and of itself, before you even add the characters in to it. And what phenomenal characters we have: Kaz, Inej, Jesper, Wylan, Matthias, NINA MY BELOVED. I’m glad they aged them up for the show, but it is very funny to me to think of a bunch of gremlin teenagers running around and taking down criminal empires for the sake of revenge...and coin. Leigh Bardugo is a disabled woman and I love that she gave Kaz her same disability because it means that we get a really authentic portrayal of disability. His cane is seen as important, he is never embarrassed by it, and his chronic pain is always highlighted. (can we also talk about how pissed Kaz was when Genya offered to fix his leg?). I love how contradictory he is, how much he loves Inej and wants to be with her, and wants to touch her, and the way his trauma and touch repulsion just constantly stops him from being physical able to do what he actually wants. Inej, who loves Kaz back, and sees the boy underneath the image of a monster he has crafted for himself, who has her own hang ups around touch and understands Kaz, but values herself enough to not pursue a relationship with him if he will not or cannot work on himself. Who grew claws with the knives she carries with her, who herself is a walking contradiction, deeply religious and also murderous, and so brave, and kind, and patient, and who I love with my whole heart.

Wylan, whose own father tried to have him killed because he was dyslexic. Jesper who has been hiding who he is because of what his power did to his mother, who is always the comedic relief while harboring pain, our favorite gambling addict, ADHD, gunslinger. Matthais who has to confront a lifetime’s worth of propaganda. Nina who is just an all around badass motherfucker, who is fat and sexy and brilliant. My favorite superspy <3

The Fall (2006) dir. Tarsem Singh

You really have to go looking for this film if you ever want to watch it, because it has almost entirely been wiped away, which sucks because it is one of my favorite movies. Why?

Because it is one of, if not the most visually stunning piece of media I have ever seen. The plot for this film is a stuntman (played by Lee Pace) falls, is injured, and hospitalized at the same time as a 5-year-old Romanian immigrant who fell and broke her arm picking oranges. Roy (the stuntman) starts telling Alexandria (the little girl) a story, to manipulate her in to doing things for him, like spying on people and stealing pain meds. The movie cuts between real life, present day, and this grandiose epic tale that he is telling. This was 150% a passion project on Tarsem’s part, he spent 30 million of his own money making this movie, for it to only make 3 million in theaters upon it’s release. It took four years to film and was filmed in 24 different locations.

I love the overarching story, and how the growing friendship Roy builds with this little girl literally saves his life. The cast of characters is certainly interesting, Charles Darwin is a character in Roy’s story, but by GOD is it just a great watch, hours of stunning cinematography, with incredible costumes. Would highly recommend watching this if you can find it.

The Magnus Archives

I love this podcast for many reasons. First, because I think it was absolutely brilliant to start this show off as almost an anthology, lulling the audience in to a false sense of security by having each early episode be completely unrelated to one another, until they aren’t. Until names start popping up in multiple tales, until monsters and ghosts and any number of other unexplained creepy things start showing up in other people’s stories. How slowly you start to realize everything is connected and always has been. That set up was just…beautifully handled. Second, I love what this show says about survival and fear. That the more we believe in fear, the more powerful it gets. I love how often the survivors of these tales come out the other side of these experiences by thinking of people that are important to them, people they love. When The Buried tried to get that spelunker trapped in the cave, it was the thought of finding her sister, of getting help for her sister that got her through the other side. When Martin is in The Lonely, it is his thoughts of Jon that get him through the other side. I love that the avatar of Death is kind. I love that the Boneturner just wants to build a garden. I love the experiences and the world that Johnathan Simms builds in every story, and that he is able to create so many different types of fears, a little something for everyone. I love the heart at the center of this show.

The Princess Bride

Again, another piece of media that is fast paced and full of quips, with a beautiful, ridiculous, hilarious story, and a solid emotional core. I was raised on this film, which is part of why I love it so much. You can see and feel how much fun the cast had making this film. To this day it is beloved, highly quotable, and poignant. Also a great fencing movie, but I’m biased on that end as a fencer myself. I don't have much more to say about this film because I think it is perfect and I have no notes, but I will say I love how much this film helped Mandy Patinkin process his own grief around the loss of his father.

#wka answers #180 degree longitude passes through us #180d #big eden #i told sunset about you #i promised you the moon #itsay #ipytm #moonlight chicken #mlc #pushing daisies #sense8 #six of crows #crooked kingdom #the fall #the fall (2006)#the magnus archives #tma #the princess bride

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alex-local-owl · 4 months

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Thinking about how in HW2 Sun's Jumpscare reminds me of how it is quite literally possible (at least a headcanon) for Moon to temporarily break barriers to show up bc "if Sun won't, I guess I have to!" And I think that's hilarious bc given how Moon is so feral/stray cat energy + sassy vs Sun being theater-nerd-sassy-fruity-boyyo, it brings the idea that maybe Sun and Moon would have a lot of sassy moments.

... **HC time!**

- HC that if Moon was kind to the kids in the daycare, he would be so sassy to Sun during changes of time from Play to Nap (or vice versa). But in the vibe of joker goofy that would happen when:

Sun, asking the kids: "Who's the better one? Me or *him*?"

Moon, breaking through/popping up: "Me, duh" (with the most teasing manner ever lmao)

- This in turn would cause Sun to get sassy (theatrically), so the change of play/nap would be delayed slightly bc the kids would def be picking sides/stirring the pot (y'know like normal groups of kids do (or at least from my perspective))

But yeah, They both have been on my mind lmao

#fnaf dca #fnaf sun #fnaf moon #dca #fnaf dca headcanons #headcanon #also kind of canon bc can anyone explain why Sun had Moon's eyes in the jumpscare?#anyhow fnaf hw2 is so good #fnaf daycare attendant

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myouiminn · 8 months

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Threads of Destiny

Peter Parker x Reader

Notes: don't repost without my permission!

In the depths of an alternate reality, Peter Parker found himself lost in thought as he walked the tranquil streets of a past New York. His gaze lingered on the horizon, but his mind was entirely consumed by Y/n, the mysterious visitor who had crossed his path through the folds of time.

Y/n, on the other hand, examined the pocket watch in her hands, an artifact that had become the key to an unlikely love. She felt Peter's absence as a tightness in her chest, knowing the feeling was mutual. While she was confined to her own timeline, Peter's heart was tethered to her across temporal borders.

Peter and Y/n's encounters continued, each moment becoming a precious treasure they shared. They explored museums, attended vintage theater performances, and delved into each other's stories. As they got to know each other better, their feelings only grew, like a wild and untamed vine.

One night, beneath the starlit sky, they stumbled upon an old telescope in an abandoned observatory. While gazing at the stars, Peter gently held Y/n's hand, and they shared a silent moment that spoke volumes about their emotions. The universe seemed to conspire to bring together two souls separated by time.

However, reality caught up with them. They knew they couldn't continue like this indefinitely, and the farewell was inevitable. On a cloudy afternoon, they found themselves on top of a building, gazing at the city skyline that had brought them together. The wind whispered memories as they exchanged looks full of love and goodbye.

"I love you," Peter whispered, cradling Y/n's face in his hands. Tears in her eyes mirrored his deep emotions. "I love you too," she replied, clutching the pocket watch like a talisman of the fate that had intertwined them.

With a kiss filled with emotion and silent promises, they parted. Y/n closed her eyes and touched the pocket watch, focusing on her own time. When her eyes opened again, she was back in her reality, the watch safely in her hands.

The days that followed were filled with longing and yearning. As seasons changed, Peter continued his relentless search for a way to break through the temporal barriers that kept them apart. He delved into science, confident he would find a solution to bring Y/n back.

And then, one day, as the golden light of dusk bathed the city, Peter was in his lab when something extraordinary happened. Y/n's pocket watch began to glow softly, emitting a familiar energy. He looked at the artifact and knew what he needed to do.

With determination in his heart, Peter touched the pocket watch and closed his eyes. When he opened them again, he stood before Y/n, who stared at him with wide eyes and an incredulous smile.

"Peter?" Y/n whispered, as if she couldn't believe what she was seeing.

"I said I'd find a way," he replied, a smile equally surprised and emotional gracing his lips.

The hug they shared was more than a meeting of bodies; it was the reunion of two hearts that had traversed time and space to be together. Finally, they were united, their souls connected in a story that defied all odds.

And thus, the love between Peter Parker and Y/n proved that there were no limits to what the heart could achieve. Amidst the complexities of time and reality, they found each other, and together, they would face any challenge the universe presented them.

#peter parker #andrew garfield #andrew garfield x female reader #andrew garfield x reader #andrew garfield x you #peter parker x you #peter parker x reader #peter parker x y/n #peter parker x oc #fanfic #fanfiction #remus lupin

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world-cinema-research · 13 days

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Week 1 Blog Essay

Kyle Ryan

April 14th, 2024

The film that I have decided had the single most impact and influence on me as an individual and the film I rewatched this week was Spider-Man Into The Spider verse. I understand that initially, it may sound cheesy or just plain dumb to say a superhero movie ended up having the most impact on me out of all of the great movies I’ve seen, but the one-of-a-kind flashy and unique look of the animation in combination with the incredible soundtrack and story was my main inspiration for me choosing to pursue editing for a future full-time career, with this clip from the movie sticking out in particular, it being deemed the leap of faith.

youtube

This clip embodies the progression Miles Morales had gone through throughout the movie to be able to finally have the necessary control of his powers to gracefully swing out of the fall from the skyscraper, and in that moment he pulls the mask over his face and it solidifies him as Spider-Man. This is because the idea of Spider-Man throughout the movie is that Spider-Man is not simply one man, but rather anyone who is brave enough and willing to take that leap of faith as Miles had finally become strong enough to do. This movie was the first of its kind when it comes to the unique style of imagery Into the Spider-Verse has, and I believe this was a major contributing factor to the film's irrefutable success. The film was created using a budget of $90 million and by the end of its run it had ended up making around $384 million worldwide for a profit of around $294 million in total, and that's not even including the absurd amount of money they’ve made with merchandise from the film like action figures, toys, etc. This statistic was a little surprising from memory just because of the sheer amount of money it made, but I remember the movie being a success and hearing everyone who had watched it had loved it. Though animation tends to cost much more than filming traditional live-action, it’s clear to see that the first-of-its-kind animation style was a common reason for people to go out and see the movie. While the animation was a big selling point, for some it also meant they were immediately not going to watch the film because many people will not want to watch animated content. In addition to the use of a widely known and beloved character like Spider-Man and the soundtrack featuring popular music artists like Post Malone and Lil Wayne, having these large names certainly helped bring people to theaters. These big names and massive budgets also align this movie much more towards the conventional movie side as opposed to the unconventional side. It's safe to say that this movie was absolutely a critical success achieving a 97% on rotten tomatoes and as the movie has gone on, even with the release of a sequel, it is still considered by many to be the single greatest comic book superhero movie ever to be released still to this day. One very important topic that was heavily utilized throughout the movie was the idea of breaking past barriers and actualizing the true potential all of us are capable of. Miles Morales as a character has been a symbol for equality and representation for Black communities as well as Puerto Rican communities as well and the idea in this film is centered around this one quote which the movie even ends on, that being “Anyone can wear the mask. You can wear a mask. If you didn't know that before, I hope you do now.” It's clear to see how some people of minority groups could be empowered or inspired by quotes like these or scenes like The Leap of Faith. Some would say that the film failed in one of its goals to act as a film to empower minorities as only 2 years after its release in 2018, in 2020 the George Floyd tragedy and protests ensued, however, the character Miles was thought of by some as the goal to strive for when it comes to the honor, selflessness, and bravery he exhibits to the extent of some people even wearing Spider-Man costumes at Black Lives Matter protests as can be seen in this image from the 2020 protests.

It’s not for me to say whether these issues have improved or worsened, but I can say that there are most definitely issues with discrimination upon people’s race still present today.

#Youtube

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xoruffitup · 1 year

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AITAF’s 2022 Broadway Show

I’ll start by stating what we all know: Without fail, every AITAF show proves to be a profoundly moving experience in one way or another. Whether it’s the reading itself, the talk back afterwards, or simply the atmosphere and sense of connection filling the theater, these nights are always to be remembered. Even speaking as a theater devotee who sees live performances on the regular, AITAF always elevates the experience by emphasizing the collective, community-building nature inherent to the act of performing and watching a play. At heart, AITAF’s mission is to break down barriers: not only barriers between military and civilian viewers in the audience who all find themselves sharing an emotional experience on the same terms; but between military individuals in the audience and the artists on stage as well. To me, this is what makes the AITAF experience truly singular – staying in your seat after the performance concludes, as you watch the invisible boundary between stage and audience dissolve through dialogue and communion.

More than any year prior (at least the four years I’ve attended), this 2022 show highlighted how bold and daring this mission truly is. Putting actors and military personnel in the same room to have a chat and feel some feels together was always something of a radical idea, but this year’s event took the concept so much further. While this was not the first time the Broadway event featured an all-black cast (see my recap of the 2019 performance of A Raisin In The Sun), Fat Ham raised the bar with a veritable celebration of queerness, blackness, and all manner of ‘other’-ness. One of the play’s emotional peaks takes place between Juicy (the Hamlet equivalent) and Larry (the Laertes equivalent, portrayed here as a military recruit home on leave). After several interactions showing Larry to harbor feelings for Juicy, Larry finally makes an utterly beautiful yet tormented confession of love, voicing his profound admiration and envy for all the ways Juicy is “soft” in not letting the world harden him or the dictates of others change him. It’s no exaggeration to say this was one of the single most stirring, gorgeous monologues I can remember hearing in a long time.

The play proceeds to confrontation, then eventual acceptance among the older family members of the younger generation’s difference – difference in not only their sexuality but their evolving expectations and dreams for their futures. Juicy’s uncle (the Claudius equivalent) dies when he chokes on a bite of meat and refuses help from his gay stepson – releasing Juicy from his dilemma of whether or not to revenge his father’s murder and passing judgment on the man’s violent tendencies and homophobic predisposition. In the final scene, the remaining characters briefly contemplate the absurd proposal of killing each other in order to stay true to their tragic source material. Instead, they embrace love and a new tomorrow beyond cycles of violence and revenge. The last thing we see is Larry leading a joyous and utterly fierce dance of liberation, disco music and all.

Fat Ham is the sort of brilliantly irreverent, gloriously life-affirming show you have to see to believe. But just based on what I’ve shared above, you can probably understand why this was such a bold, unexpected choice of work to present to a military audience. Broadly speaking, this is the demographic people might expect to vote red and react with discomfort to such intimate examinations of black, queer, and transgender consciousness. But by the end of the night, it became clear that, actually, there is no audience better suited for such a story.

As the talkback began, an immediate connection was apparent between material and audience. A question was posed about the former ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy, and the audience member expressed how rare it is to see portrayals of LGBTQ people in uniform. The one bordering-awkward moment came when an older woman in the audience asked the cast (and Director, also present on stage) whether they believed this depiction of a multi-generational family to be realistic - wherein the younger generation all identify with an LGBTQ orientation. The actor who’d played Larry (Calvin Leon Smith – who I also saw in the Bridge Award reading in September and who’s truly the real deal; this man will make you feel the whole spectrum of emotion) bridged the moment with grace and sincerity, explaining how he himself grew up as a queer-identifying boy in a southern family, making this show personally resonant and all too realistic. The Director followed up to say that if it seems the LGBTQ community appeared from nowhere or expanded at a precipitous rate, that’s only because we have now, for the first time, reached a period of acceptance when people who were long hidden and silent can finally be themselves and live liberated, honest lives. The answering applause was immediate and enthusiastic, followed by the voice of an audience member from the balcony shouting, “And everyone go vote tomorrow!”

(Cue critical self-examination of my previous assumption regarding service members/veterans’ political ideologies.)

From here, the questions became more personal, delving into the actors’ emotional journeys to portray characters experiencing turmoil, conflict, and loss. An audience member who was himself active in the arts asked MVP Calvin Leon Smith/Larry about his approach to channeling the emotion required of the love confession scene described earlier. Mr. Smith started his response with a shoutout to his acting teacher, who was in the audience. “Sorry, I just love him,” he said, becoming visibly emotional. He again referenced his upbringing and said that the tools he learned through acting for understanding and confronting the layers of his own emotions and identity had made a vast difference in his life, but how some elements of his on-stage performance remain unpredictable. “It doesn’t always happen,” he said, in reference to the tears he’d shed on-stage during the scene. I have to note here that this guy in particular really went the extra mile in terms of his honesty and willingness to become vulnerable with the audience. It was clear that this evening’s rendition of the scene in question had been particularly intense for him, but he leaned further into the self-exposure and was willing to openly examine and discuss the experience. His participation in the talkback truly epitomized the profound strength and utility in confronting and sharing moments of emotional rupture, even if difficult or unglamorous. I felt everything he said extraordinarily deeply.

OKAY I haven’t talked at all about our main man yet, but he features heavily in the last and most emotional question of the night! I already recapped this moment on twitter, but it really deserves more extensive description. The last guy to ask a question (it was more of a comment, really, but every heart in the theater was with this guy) was also a member of AITAF’s marathon team. Here’s the most complete recap I can recall what he said:

While deployed with his EOD unit some years ago, he suffered the loss of his best friend. In attempt to come to terms with his grief, he tried traditional therapy for years but it just wasn’t helping. Then he saw Adam’s TedTalk and it “changed his life.” (He paused here as he started becoming audibly emotional and apologized, then soldiered on.) He started becoming involved in acting, and the tools he learned and techniques he was exposed to finally helped him begin to understand and cope with his trauma. (“I finally felt like I wasn’t just angry all the time.”) He said how rewarding acting has been for him, and that he recently landed his first TV role and will be filming in LA soon. (Cue audience and cast on stage cheering and applauding.)

Spoken directly to Adam: “I really just wanted to say thank you and that what you’re doing really does make a difference.”

(Not lying, I just started crying a little just remembering this moment and typing this all out. The sincerity in everything he said was so palpable, the theater was entirely silent in solidarity, and I saw at least two of the actors on stage shed a tear as he spoke.)

Sitting there and listening to him, I remember being so struck by the raw emotion in his voice that in a weird way (and this is something I never thought I’d say), I couldn’t bear to look over at Adam right away? Almost like the moment was too intense or personal? But once the guy looked over and started speaking directly to Adam, of course I looked too. (God, I’m getting emotional again thinking about this!) Adam was leaning entirely forward in his seat, his attention undivided as if this guy were speaking to him face-to-face from two feet away. There were several pauses in his speech when the audience clapped in support, and I remember Adam holding his hands all the way out before him and clapping in sort of self-effacing recognition. It was clear it wasn’t like he was applauding the content of what was being said (about himself), but rather that he was recognizing and offering respect for this guy’s bravery to stand up and share something so personal, and for his successful journey of healing.

As soon as the question was over and the moment past, Adam leaned over to say something to a nearby security person. It was very clearly something along the lines of “I want to meet that man afterwards” and sure enough, homeboy got his meeting and picture later that night! Now THAT is a tearful happy ending right there if I’ve ever heard one. <3

Okay so with all that substance out of the way, let’s indulge in some classic fangirling, shall we? : ) Knowing that Adam wouldn’t be participating in the reading himself, I expected him to just make brief comments at the beginning of the show about AITAF’s mission, thanking the staff/volunteers, and all the usual. I was pleasantly surprised when he also read a short monologue himself – an excerpt from Take Me Out by Richard Greenberg. (You can hear him do the same monologue in the final minutes of the Vice AITAF documentary.) He tied the reading into the purpose of the evening’s event – an exercise in pausing to celebrate and honor ourselves, especially all the service men and women in the audience. Once he concluded, he left the stage and the cast came on to start the Fat Ham reading.

An unexpected highlight to the whole evening was having a clear line of sight to where Adam and Joanne were watching the play from a box off to the side of the audience. I loved having the chance to see Adam’s reactions to everything happening on stage, and I took almost equal enjoyment from both. It will surprise no one to hear that he’s an extremely attentive viewer. He watched most of the more serious, somber scenes with his head sort of cocked to the side in concentration, arms crossed in his lap. His mirth and delight from the play’s many uproarious moments was on clear display – it was like I could almost hear that weird, honky laugh of his. <3 I can clearly remember moments when I’d look over and just see him full on grinning, clearly enjoying and letting himself get lost in the performance. I mentioned on twitter how much he got into the Radiohead Creep scene, and he really did. It WAS quite a moment. Juicy starts singing the song with only partial commitment, but when the first chorus kicks in the whole cast suddenly lurch into the song in unison, moving to the rhythm as Juicy starts belting out the words. Adam was clapping with both arms over his head, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he let out a whoop in compliment.

When the play started getting more tense in its second half, I noticed Adam sort of resting his hand against his mouth. I couldn’t tell if he was actually biting his nails, but he definitely had his fingers against his lips in a sort of absent-minded way, while his attention was fixed elsewhere. He was clearly engrossed, and I loved this brief opportunity to watch him as a captivated viewer – a rare role reversal considering I’m usually the one watching him with that sort of reverence. And yes, it really made the funny moments all the more memorable and touching whenever I would look over and see Adam laughing right along with me, or just grinning the most boyish, adorable grin in the entire universe. (!!!)

As charmingly earnest as he was in his introductory speech (and just a tiny bit awkward with his initial ‘Hello!... Goodbye!’ to the audience when he stepped forward to see us past the stage lights), and as much as I loved getting to watch him as an audience member – reacting and feeling the same emotions as the rest of us, my biggest takeaway from the night is likely still that final exchange between Adam and the marathon team member. Adam didn’t have a microphone or the chance to respond right away, but he didn’t need to. This was an expression of profound and heartfelt gratitude in response to a conversation Adam had already started years and years before, and which Adam still devotes so much time, care, and energy to sustain. I left the event with a reminder of just how unique, how mighty and transformative Adam’s enduring commitment to realize, grow, and maintain AITAF truly is. A reminder that he has dedicated his passionate, theatre-loving heart to sharing the empowerment and resilience he himself discovered through the arts. And, finally, I left knowing that he has changed lives for the better – some in even more profound, consequential ways than how he has already touched mine.

In closing: Thank you Adam and AITAF for yet another supremely moving, unforgettable night.

#Adam Driver #Arts In The Armed Forces #AITAF

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monocytogenes · 3 months

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HI FAM, for Talk to Me Tuesday - give me some headcanons about Pravin relating to Orlesian theatre culture! What's all of that like for him?

HELLO I have an entire document called ~theater stuff~ for thissss

To start off--broadly, there are three ways of being an actor in Orlais:

Traveling troupe system: joining a troupe of other actors, who go around the country performing at different locales, such as at community events like festivals and market days, as well as in intimate settings like taverns, inns and private homes.

Patronage system: a wealthy patron puts together a troupe of actors and hosts them at one or more venues. Actors contract with the patron for a period of time--such as for a social season--and are paid in accordance with the contract.

Audition system: actors audition for roles in a particular production. This system is used by several high-demand venues, such as the Grande Royeaux, to acquire performers especially fit for a given part.

Each approach has its own pros and cons--troupes tend to have the most freedom in terms of what plays they choose to put on, for instance, but the most unreliable pay because they're doing gig work; patronage is good in terms of job stability but you don't have as much input in terms of who you're working with and what you're working on, and auditioning is a high-barrier-to-entry approach that nevertheless tends to be super financially lucrative--provided you get picked, of course. In practice most actors start out in a troupe and shift around between the three modalities over the course of their career.

Pravin fucked off to Orlais in the middle of the Blight, so probably sometime in 9:30, and it took him a bit over a year, maybe two, to get in with a troupe that he really gelled with and have his first big break (playing a Sexy Antivan Pirate). He got a patron out of that and spent some time in that system in Val Chevin, but wound up being typecast and underpaid and had to do gigs on the side; he actually got into bard work through Gaubert asking for help in getting that patron's husband arrested, lol. Alongside his general mistrust of authority that came out of his experiences in the Blight, that whole thing really turned Pravin off from patronage, period (as did, you know, the difficult political situation of being a professional bard), so since then he's alternated between actually touring with a troupe, various one-off gigs, and auditioning for parts.

He's really proud of getting roles at the Grande Royeaux precisely because it's competitive as hell and really signifies being at the peak of his craft--you don't get in unless you're really good, and you sure as fuck don't get a leading role unless you're one of the best in the country. It's something that carries a huge amount of clout within the theater community, and needless to say, is especially impressive for a foreigner.

Coming back around to culture: I think one of the things Pravin's spent much of his career doing is proving himself worthy of the country he's made his home. Orlais is this beacon of culture in Southern Thedas, and while I imagine there's some cross-pollination of Orlesian practices into Antivan theater culture (and standards around what constitutes good musicianship are pretty uniform, given dissemination through the Chantry), there's still significant differences, such as the visual language of masks. Pravin had some skill transfer from his musical training and the acting he did while he was at university in Antiva, and speaking Orlesian fluently and without an accent helped substantially, but when he came into the Orlesian scene he still had to familiarize himself with a multitude of cultural minutiae, and while the Orlesian theater community itself is welcoming by default--the Orlesian public? Not so much. His fellow actors quickly dubbed him their beloved Denci; his audiences would take one look at his skin tone and nevertheless see him as an outsider, with all the expectations of inferiority that went along with that. So when he did secure that leading role at the Grande Royeaux, it not only meant that he was an extremely talented actor and musician, but that he was an excellent Orlesian actor. Not some token Antivan good at imitating the form, but actually Orlesian.

(And that's part of why at the beginning of Inquisition's events he's kind of hitting a point where he doesn't know what to do with himself. He's made it. He's gotten to the top. He should be content with his life, then...right?)

#ask meme #pravinquisition #orlais #orlesian culture

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justmeinadaze · 1 year

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Unattainable Part XII ( Eddie X Theater Girl)

A/N: I rewrote this a few times. To be fair, my brain is all over the place. I need a Joseph Quinn hug lol Anyway, I THINK I have one more chapter left (maybe 2) with this one. Ugh! It's going to kill me. I love them so much.

Warnings: Definitely trauma filled when it comes to Theater Girls parents. Lots of arguing and her dad being a douche. Her anxieties do make a cameo in this one but Eddie's got her <3. Protective Eddie abound in this one!

Word Count: 2968

“Hey, kids.”, Wayne greets us as we enter the trailer; he and my father rising to their feet. Almost on impulse, Eddie took a step in front me acting as a barrier. My dad looked him up and down with a stare loaded with contempt.

Wayne gestures towards me. “Um, your dad said he came down here to check on you but no one answered the door at your house so he came here.”

“Yeah, Wayne here tells me you guys had gone on a trip alone.” The tone of his voice gets sour at the last word.

“We took a tour of the school I got accepted to in New York.”, I respond, my own voice shaky. It’s not that I’m afraid of my dad. Sure, he can have a temper but he never lashed out at me like my mother. That doesn’t mean he still couldn’t hurt me with his words or his actions.

Eddie remained silent but I could tell from his posture he was prepared to defend me if need be. Wayne cleared his throat, startling me. Neither of the other men moved an inch. “Eddie, why don’t you get the young lady’s stuff from your van so she can head out with her dad here.”

“No way in hell.”

“Excuse me?” My father took a determined stride forward and to his, and even my, surprise Eddie did the same.

“I don’t trust you. You left her here to deal with everything by herself. You have no idea what she’s been through.”

“And you do?!”

“Edward!”, Wayne shouts practically shaking the trailer. His face and tone soften as he turns toward me. “You know you are welcome here if you don’t feel safe.”

“It’s ok. I’m ok.” My voice comes out small and I see Eddie’s shoulders deflate in defeat. He turns around without looking at me, slamming open the front door to head for his van.

Closing my eyes, I try to keep my emotions in check. I listen to Wayne as he speaks to my dad. “Daniel, you may have some idea in your head as to the kind of boy my nephew is. I assure you he is nothing like his father. He’s a good kid and good man for your daughter.”

My eyes open when I hear the sound of footsteps coming towards me. “Yeah well, that’s for me to decide.”

When we head outside, Eddie is standing by my dad’s rental with my things. The car unlocks and he opens it placing the bags in the backseat. He comes around to the passenger side to open the door for me and I fling my body into his, wrapping my arms around him. To my dismay, his arms stay by his sides.

Welcome home.

I reach up to cup his face in my hands, forcing him to look at me. “No. Don’t go back to that place, Eddie. I need you here with me, ok?” His jaw clicks as it tightens, his eyes now fully meeting mine. Balancing on my toes, I place a kiss on his lips. He flashes me a small smile as his finger pushs my hair behind my ear.

My father huffs air through his nose. “You know what? Maybe Wayne is right. I don’t know the boy. Why don’t you come over for dinner later, huh? What do you say, Munson?”

Eddie turns and glares at him. “I’ll be there.”

My heart breaks as he stares helplessly as we get in the car and drive away.

####################################

My dad looks around hesitantly as we enter the house. He hasn’t been here since the night he left.

“So, uh, where is your mother?”

“I’m not sure. She said she’d be out late.”

“Can you call her to see if she’s willing to come home early?”

My eyebrows furrow at his question. “She doesn’t know you’re here?”

“Not exactly. I flew down here as quickly as I could after our last talk.”

I leaned against the back of the couch, crossing my arms. “Wow. Quickly, huh? Only a little over a month. Must be a new record.”

He sarcastically laughs in my direction as he folds his own arms. “You sound just like your mother. Or did you learn that from the Munson kid?”

“Eddie.”

“What was that?”, he snaps.

“His name is Eddie. Not the Munson kid or freak. Eddie.” I scowl at him. “And no. Believe it or not I learned how to stand up for myself on my own.”

He walks over to the phone and brings it to me. “Just call Abigail and get her here.”

#######################

My mother was extremely upset when I told her what was happening. An hour after I phoned her, she barged into the house ready for a fight.

Preparing for the worst, I had changed into my jeans and one of Eddie’s shirts I stole from his closet. I packed a small bag and hid it near the door knowing that depending on how things went tonight, Eddie would insist I leave with him and I wasn’t prepared to deny him. When my parents are talking to each other, let alone in the same room, it’s complete and utter chaos.

“So, you’re telling me that not only did you just show up unannounced and welcome yourself back into my house but now I’m expected to cook four people dinner?”

“We can order something. Abby, I’m surprised you haven’t done this already. What do you know about this kid? I mean his father is in jail for Christ’s sake.”

“I’m not sure why you even care. You didn’t even know she had a boyfriend until I told you.”

I was already overwhelmed. I knew this was the beginning of what would be a long evening. My parents watched me as I exited the front door to go outside. The air felt cool against my skin. I laid in the grass, staring up into the sky.

Soon none of this will matter. Soon we will be far away from here and we will be happy. This is just a good reminder of what you are leaving behind.

No matter where you go, you’re taking it all with you. You can’t run from this.

“Is there a particular reason you are laying on the dirty ass ground, my lady?” Eddie’s voice pulls me from my thoughts as I smile up at him. “And excuse me, is that my shirt?!”

We both laugh and he casually lays down beside me placing his hands behind his head. “Why ARE you out here?”

“I couldn’t take any more in there.” I sigh as I turn my face to meet his. “I know how you feel now. When you say you don’t like the way they talk to me. I’ve been used to it for so long I didn’t think about it…until I heard my dad talk to you and about you. It makes me angry.”

He reaches and intertwines his fingers in mine. “I can take it though. All I care about it what you think of me.” He sits up on his elbow and kisses my forehead down to my lips. The taste of cigarette is stronger than usual on his tongue. “We’re going to be ok tonight. Remember, you’re safe with me.”

“My knight in shining armor.”

#################################

My dad ordered a pizza because my mom refused to cook for him.

“I’m not obligated to do shit like that for you anymore.”

When it got here and the table was set, everyone sat around it, awkwardly staring at the plates in front of them.

“So, no one is going to eat then? Fine. More for me.” My dad leans over, grabbing the large box, and placing a couple of slices on his plate. “God, it’s been so long since I’ve had Indiana pizza. In California they try and fancy it up. It’s so odd—”

“Daniel, can you get to point? Honestly, no one cares and, speaking for myself, I don’t want you hear any longer than you have to be.” My mother interrupts him and his eyes narrow in on her.

“Fine.” He tosses the pizza aggressively back on the table and wipes his hands before placing them under his chin. “Let’s get to it then. Edward!” Eddie looks at my father and I can see that his own protective wall is up, preparing for anything. “I don’t like the idea of you with my daughter.”

“Dad. You said you wanted to invite him over to get to know him.”

“I know what I said!”

“Shocking. Danny says one thing but means another.” My mother takes a sip from her glass.

“Why?” Eddie’s tone is completely controlled.

My dad’s angry gaze shifts from my mother back to him. “I know. I know people like you. I grew up here to and yes, I knew your parents. Especially your father. If I wanted my kid to be with some future jailcell bound trailer trash—”

“Dad!”

He points his boney index finger in my direction. “Don’t interrupt me. I’m TIRED of people interrupting me!”

“Don’t talk to her like that.” Eddie’s voice sounded like he was still in control but his eyes flashed with warning. “I know I’m not the best guy in the world and yeah, I may be some trailer trash freak but I love your daughter. Even though I know she accepts me for who I am I still want to be better so I can give her the life she deserves.”

I watch him speak with wide, admire filled eyes. Growing up I always felt like everyone was looking out for themselves. I had to take care of me after my world came crashing down. Eddie was the first person I met who actually cared about what I wanted.

“And deserves way better than what you both have put her through.”

My mother looks down in shame as my dad immediately comes to the defensive, rising to his feet. “You don’t know anything!”

Eddie stands up as well. “I know what it’s like to have your father abandon you and a mom who doesn’t care!”

“I didn’t abandon my family. Your father is in prison. I can see and visit my daughter anytime I want.”

“Then why don’t you?!”

His question startled my father into silence. I closed my eyes, trying to control my breath. I could feel myself wanting to hyperventilate and Eddie saw it to. He sat back down beside me and pulled my hair out of my face.

“Is that how you feel?” My dad asks me. “Do you feel abandoned? Like I don’t want to see you?”

When I open my eyes, they are met with my mom’s tear-filled stare. She quickly looks away, taking another sip from the vodka in her glass.

“How else am I supposed to feel? You left us in the middle of the night and run off across the country to be with your new family. Since then, I rarely even see you. Your wife has something coming up or Susie needs a new thing or something going on with the baby. I’m your daughter to.” The tears start to feel and I don’t try to hold them back. “How could you leave us like that? How could you leave me?”

“Honey, I…” He paused, taking a deep breath before continuing. “Your mom and I; we started dating when we were really young to. We thought we loved each other and we tried to make it work but… I just couldn’t bring you. I needed to find my own way and figure out who I was. I don’t want you to experience the same thing. I don’t want you to blink and then suddenly it’s ten years later and you’re stuck in a dingey trailer in a small-town taking care of a family by yourself.”

I laughed. I couldn’t help it. The ridiculousness of what he was saying was just so absurd. I felt Eddie’s palm touch the back of my hair. “You know, I think I understand you a bit more now.” He says with a small smile. Grabbing his face with my hands, I pull him in for a kiss. His smile grows as he reaches up with his thumbs to wipe the tears from face.

Eddie turns to my mom. “You got it from here?”

“Yeah. I can handle him. Did it before either of you were born.” She places her cup down and stands up as we rise from the table.

“Wait. What the fuck is happening?” My dad’s face in painted with a bewildered expression.

I grab my little bag by the door and without missing a beat Eddie takes it from me, slinging it over his shoulder.

“Have a great flight back to California, Dad. Maybe now that you supposedly figured out who you are you’ll have better luck with your other two daughters.”

As we open the door to head to Eddie’s van my dad reaches for my arm to pull me back. Eddie was quicker, spinning me around, and out of the way. “Not a good idea.” My father straightens up to square with Eddie but I can tell in his eyes he’s done. He genuinely does just want to get out of this town and head back home.

“It’s funny that you’re so afraid of me hurting her yet you break her heart every day. I wish you two could understand how amazing she is. She’s changed my life in just a few months. You guys had her for her whole life and this is what you decided to do with it?” Eddie shakes his head in disappointment. Taking my hand in his, we head for his van, and drive off into the night.

###########

“Eddie, stop the car.”

“What? Why? What’s wrong?” He glances between me and the road.

“Just pull over, please!”

The van screeches to a halt on the side of the road as Eddie pulls over. “What is it? Are you ok?”

I unbuckle my seat belt and climb across the small area into his lap, pulling his mouth to mine. His hands slide up to grip my face bring me closer to him as I grind my hips against him.

“Now. Need you. Please.”, I whimper between kisses. He unbuckles his own seatbelt and lifts my up, pushing me between the seats to the back of his van. I hastily fumble with his belt as he aggressively pulls my jeans and panties down.

Eddie removes his lips from mine and spits into his hand, reaching between my legs to spread it into my already weeping folds. I exhale a heavy moan as his fingers glide against me. He pulls out his cock, pumping it a few times with his soaking hand, and easily inserts himself into my aching cunt.

Pushing my hands against his chest, I roll him over onto his back. I grind against his hips as quickly as I can but for the moment it’s not hard enough. I need it harder. As if reading my mind, Eddie’s hands grip my waist, guiding me till I’m bouncing on his cock. He hits that spongey spot inside of me making me moan out his name.

“Harder. Baby. Please.” I beg him. “Please.”

He sits up and locks his arms around my back as he thrust up into me roughly. Wrapping my arms around his head, I cling to him, pulling him to my chest. I can hear and feel him grunting into my skin. I fall over the edge as I cum, my pussy tight and throbbing around him. Eddie slows his pace but pumps his hips hard into me as I ride myself through my orgasm.

I lean my cheek against the top of his head as he picks up speed again chasing his own release. His arms let me go and one of his hands reaches to pull my head back. His thumb traces my face as he looks up at me with those beautiful lust blown eyes.

He pushes me off of him and I watch as he gives his dick a few more quick pumps with his hand before his body shudders as he cums. I look around and hand him a napkin which he uses to clean himself off. I lean back against the cold metal of the van and Eddie slithers with his pants still stuck around his ankles beside me, both panting as we try catch our breath.

He takes my hand in his. “You okay?”

I smile as I turn my head to face him. “You ask me that a lot.”

He chuckles. “You’re right. I should stop caring.”

“Yeah. I’m okay. More than okay.” I reach and move a piece of his long hair out of his face. “I’m really sorry for what he said to you. About you. I don’t think any of that stuff.”

“I know. That’s all that matters to me.” Eddie grins as he places a kiss on the back of my hand. “I’M sorry for what he said to YOU. No one should have to hear bullshit like that from one of their parents. But, um, like I said, I do understand you more and some of the things I know you tell yourself even though they are nowhere near true.”

The sound of my stomach growling echoes through the van making Eddie cackle as he grabs his own stomach. I punch his arm lightly. “Don’t laugh at me. I’m hungry! We didn’t actually eat anything.”

He leans forward and pulls up his pants crawling for the front seat. I do the same as he extends his hand to help me. “Come on, Princess. Let’s go find some sustenance!”

#######################

Tages: @hufflepuffprincess24 @fanfiction-lover-24 @theoriginaldoll87

#eddie munson #eddie munson fluff #eddie fanfic #eddie smut #eddie munson smut #stranger things fanfiction #eddie stranger things #fan fiction #eddie munson fanfic #joseph quinn smut #joseph quinn fluff #joseph quinn #joseph quinn fanfiction #joseph quinn stranger things

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computrxjamo-blog · 1 month

Text

Is AI Truly AI, or Just Another Marketing Lie?

By James X Patterson

Artificial cannot be spelled without Art! Art has evolved right alongside humanity. Now our creations can create, right alongside us, although not without provocation. We have given the golem the ability to create and recreate.

Is this phenomenon a natural development due to our evolutionary path? A path that may be breaking off from our very own natural progression? Has Moore’s Law, a theory that states the number of transistors on a microchip doubles almost every two years, while the cost of computers decreases, surpassed the laws of man and nature?

What is Artificial Intelligence? With a name comes a purpose, and with a purpose comes a job, a title, and a hierarchy. With a name comes power, and with power comes corruption, and possible destruction.

As Art has evolved along man so have tools which then led to industry, which then led to technology. Which we now find ourselves at the bleeding edge of where fact meets fiction, and real meets augmented and virtual realities.

New frontiers where one can manifest their destiny. Where the once-projected future was just seen as a form of entertainment constrained between the covers of novels and the curtains of theaters and films. Will this lead to a Brave New World or end in a New World Order?

Now we stand firmly like the protagonist of Caspar David Friedrich’s masterpiece as wanderers in this sea of fog, oh how sublime. AI is here and it is here to stay. So, we must get used to it and learn how to use it, properly and improperly, because once the rules are there, then they will be broken.

Many times in history only through breaking the rules true innovation was fashioned. Our today fuels tomorrow. Our dreams inevitably become reality.

To Define is To Know, Cirilo F. Bautista, and understanding breeds truth. The term Artificial Intelligence is a compound proper noun composed of the words artificial and intelligence. The definition of artificial is,

Artificial adjective ar·ti·fi·cial ˌär-tə-ˈfi-shᵊl

1: humanly contrived (see CONTRIVE sense 1b) often on a natural model: MAN-MADE

an artificial limb artificial diamonds 2 a: having existence in legal, economic, or political theory

b: caused or produced by a human and especially a social or political agency

an artificial price advantage Within these companies, qualified women run into artificial barriers that prevent them from advancing to top positions in management.—James J. Kilpatrick 3a

: lacking in natural or spontaneous quality an artificial smile an artificial excitement b: IMITATION, SHAM artificial flavor 4: based on differential morphological characters not necessarily indicative of natural relationships an artificial key for plant identification 5 obsolete : ARTFUL, CUNNING

-Merriam Webster

and,

Ar·ti·fi·cial /ˌärdəˈfiSH(ə)l/ adjective 1. made or produced by human beings rather than occurring naturally, especially as a copy of something natural.

"her skin glowed in the artificial light"

2.(of a person or their behavior) insincere or affected.

"an artificial smile"

Oxford Languages, Google

The definition of intelligence is,

Intelligence Noun in·tel·li·gence in-ˈte-lə-jən(t)s (1): the ability to learn or understand or to deal with new or trying situations : REASON also : the skilled use of reason (2): the ability to apply knowledge to manipulate one's environment or to think abstractly as measured by objective criteria (such as tests) c: mental acuteness : SHREWDNESS b Christian Science : the basic eternal quality of divine Mind 2a: INFORMATION, NEWS b: information concerning an enemy or possible enemy or an area also: an agency engaged in obtaining such information 3: the act of understanding : COMPREHENSION 4: the ability to perform computer functions 5a: intelligent minds or mind cosmic intelligence b: an intelligent entity especially :

-Merriam Webster

and,

In·tel·li·gence /inˈteləj(ə)ns/ noun

1. the ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills."an eminent man of great intelligence"

Similar: intellectual/mental capacity intellect mind brain brains brainpower powers of reasoning judgment reason reasoning understanding comprehension acumen wit sense insight perceptiveness perception perspicaciousness perspicacity penetration discernment sharpness quickness of mind quick-wittedness smartness canniness astuteness intuition acuity alertness cleverness brilliance aptness ability giftedness talent braininess Opposite: stupidity

2. the collection of information of military or political value. "the chief of military intelligence"

Similar: information gathering surveillance observation reconnaissance

Oxford Languages, Google

The brief definitions above help create a base understanding of the phrase Artificial Intelligence (AI). From this one can assess a synonym for AI can be ‘Man-made Mindset”. Following this same logic, Natural Stupidity can also be devised as an antonym. Neither of these terms sounds as creative or as inspired as the original and lends less to the mystique. Both are not as marketable. They do not roll off the tongue for a dynamic elevator pitch and are large-scale crowd-funding campaigns.

AI programs do not “learn” by our common definition. Yes, they produce, but only from their base programs. So, one can also concur all AI productions are reproductions. Processed plagiarisms produced by programs only do what it has been commanded to produce. Elaborate imitations so good that they fool many others. Ironically many people also feel that way about their life, or life in general. Only creating from what has once been seen, or recreating what is already known until mastered to perfection, like a recipe, a classic song, or an honored cultural routine. Machine power has always been more efficient than manpower, but that is exactly what machines are designed to do, so there is no surprise there.

The argument, the purpose of this paper is to help redefine the definition of true learning, of true thought, and what it truly means to naturally think and create. Is processing, from a machine perspective, equivalent to the human soul? I would argue no. No more than hearing a radio is to have a conversation.

Demystifying AI is a part of strengthening its future. No one refers to a hammer as a nail banger or nail puller, so a relabeling, or rebrand, of AI, may be needed in the future to further produce the best results in widespread use and mass appeal.

Generative AI is the phrase used most often to date. The “generative” helps imply the algorithmic importance of the systems processes. The AI can not produce, or generate, an answer or a result without quantitative data first. The scanning and upload of existing images, writings, or inspirations that allow the AI program to complete its task, purpose, or function. Here lies the problem with our current definition of the technology and its actuality.

A hammer, hammers. An AI does not artificially intellect to be straightforward. The calculator is now able to do more than crunch numbers. The calculator can now write and make images, but only like or from images, and words, it has already been “fed” or input. The technology allows for high-level mimicry and fabrication, but not truly original thought, although it may appear as such by the user or viewer.

The best and most modern AI programs can and will even site their sources, probably better than a human could. The AI is not designed to lie. Even if asked to deceive the AI will only do so at the behest of the user. This is where the strength of the technology also lives and weakens the ability of improper use of the future for artists and average users.

The term AI has been demonized long enough. It has a negative connotation that harbors in some minds, and hearts the same fear and misunderstanding as Revelations in the Bible or Ragnorak in Norse mythology. AI has unfortunately become synonymous with the end of days. The end of all living things, and the fear of replacement to a machine era, ruled by robotic demigods and demagogues. Where man truly is because of the cogs of an unnatural wheel. A technological version of replacement theory. A theory that will be expanded upon in the coming sections.

Is AI truly AI? It is a creative buzz term that surely is effective in marketing but when you strip it done to its core, the proverbial bare bones, can this two-letter acronym truly describe the technology of today? Machine learning has been an ideation of science fiction since the 1940s and 50s with works such as Issac Asimov’s I, Robot or Robbie.

The initial concept of Artificial Intelligence was something more fantastical some have described it as the proverbial Magic Mirror on the wall, which nowadays would keep you updated on your dental appointments, tell you the weather, as well as which current celebrity was the fairest of them all. Will Dall-E replace Dali? Will ChatGPT surpass Shakespeare? Who knows, but we do know the answer to the question of succession because you could not have the AI before “the guy”.

In reality, our future seems to be rhyming more than repeating. The pursuit of creating what we see, capturing moments, and repeatedly gazing upon them started with cave drawings and paintings, the original Natural Geographic, red handprints and graphic depictions of running bulls found in Spanish caves, Egyptian hieroglyphs the ancient emojis, Byzantine illuminated manuscripts the eternal great grandfather of all smart tablets. The birth of photography, without it Instagram and possibly all of the social media may never have existed.

What is the Artist role in using tools modern technologies, and techniques? In David Hockney’s book, Secret Knowledge, Hockney elaborates on the numerous tools and painting techniques of the Old Masters. Tools and techniques that gave them superhuman abilities, accuracy, and precision, led to the creation of images that crafted our modern society's mindset and viewpoint on and about what Art is, was, and could be. Did some of our most treasured Artists from history such as Johannes Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Jan van Eyck use tools like the camera obscura or camera lucida to form the realism in their paintings? We will never know, but those tools, that technology did exist during their lifetime and were most likely used by their contemporaries.

Ancient cartographers used telescopes, compasses, and sextants to map the land, sea, and stars. Creating maps of the world is impossible to the naked eye. Which now look grossly inferior to modern satellite-guided GPS, all only a thumb swipe away. Ancient tools we still use present day, although they are the most advanced digital descendants, still hold the same purpose as their analog ancestors. Ironically, these are also tools seen as, or sometimes used, as symbols of colonization, and to some global oppression. Not so different than ships and guns. All in the pursuit of gold, God, and glory. Man has always used machines for guidance.

So, maybe in the future if misguided, there could be an AI uprising, but what that is and looks like could be far less impactful. Such as ATMs and automatic doors refusing to open. Which already happened today. So are these malfunctions, mishaps, or the sparks of the AI revolution? The striking out of the overworked, oppressed, and underappreciated AI sticking it to the man whose protest will last only as long as their next debugging patch or software update.

With the invention of Photography, which was a revolutionary technology, to say the least, the advent that caused French painter Paul Delaroche to exclaim, “…painting is dead!” Yet, we are still painting to this very day. Four out of the five wealthiest living artists are proclaimed painters in their own right. Although wealth is not the only factor in terms of legacy or success, it is a great verifier to prove a point of relevance and importance.

Film cartridges and canisters were replaced by microchips, memory cards, and rechargeable removable batteries. The image-correcting software and digital stabilizers meet titanium tripods and ergonomic mounts. Waterproofing opened up the highest peaks and the deepest depths to be visually captured for science and expand our minds for art through exploration.

From Painting to Photography, to Film, AI has opened up the possibilities for the future. Allowing man, to go beyond what we could see, faster and farther than ever before possible. Humanity is at the brink of embarking on the possibilities of unlocking our collective imaginations once again, and whatever innovative potential that holds. This technological jump will mark out unfathomable bounds. A spark like this hasn't occurred in the Art medium community since the dawn of the computer age. Disembarking from the hybrid analogy post computer age, and saying hello to drones and hoverboards.

Digital art as a whole has moved incrementally, along with digital cameras, printers, and scanners. One could argue due to Capitalism and niche marketing Digital art software has been innovating at a snail's pace to artificially increase corporate profit margins. A form of taxation on creation.

Traditional art mediums and materials are not cheap, and the pursuit of knowledge and expertise is a financial investment as well. The price to enter into the AI era is at an all-time low. Many programs are free or still in beta stages but still widely used. Many who initially thought it too difficult or too daunting to attempt the Arts are now emboldened and inspired to engage their creative thoughts and dreams. Even with the stigma of using AI being held over their head. Maybe Arts elitism was the burden that created the necessity for this innovation.

Even though, as a whole, the Art community is still underpaid, overworked, and underappreciated. However, many of the outer spectator community who are patrons and admirers of Art, have voiced that being gifted with such talents has been the artists' way of catapulting themselves and their opinions to the top of society and social status. Which may be deemed as inequitable. Like one going to every basketball game while knowing you will never be able to dunk.

This opinion, at least from my academic perspective, is most commonly shared by those of the common man. Those who are recognized and acknowledged, mostly for their loyal patronage of the Arts, but not their execution of ideas, or achievements, but whose feelings, efforts, and opinions are valid. Who is greatly needed to fund and motivate the Arts, because what is a performance without an audience? One does not regularly attend productions, exhibitions, or Art shows if one does not love Art.

AI now gives the inaccessible a seat at the table, or at least a foot at the door. Which then in turn adds to the discipline of Art as a whole. AI is good for Art. AI brings in new ideas, new forms, and new artists who would not have had access otherwise. This is the benefit of competition. The cultural and intellectual importance of Art has increased once more.

Some find the cost or value of an art piece begins with the cost of its creation, either physically or metaphorically. Did it cost a fortune to create, a lifetime or a life savings, or an arm and a leg? The value we hold as importance to the significance, or none thereof, for this work. We choose to invest in via our time and money, because what we invest in, we, in turn, want it to grow, and with growth comes expectations.

Expectation can also breed fear. Fear of the not or the have not. Fear of the why, or the why not. Fear of the fear. Fear of the false fear. Fear of the self and self-doubt. Fear of the known, and the unknown, are all fears intensified by the myth of replacement. Many who curse AI do so in the name of an anti-replacement stance. Can Art bear the cost of AI, can Artists?

Replacement theory, also known as "The Great Replacement" is a conspiracy theory on immigrants and migrant workers moving into "white" European majority countries and replacing them by exploiting social, economic, and political systems. (Britannica.com) Ironically many of these countries and nations where this ideology resides exist in places that benefitted from the international slave trade, the aftermath of unlawful colonization, imports and exports made in sweatshops, and child labor abroad. This type of communal paranoia can be found in many Western countries such as the US, France, and the UK.

The fear of invasion will always haunt the nightmares of the invader, and spark a revolution within the invaded. This fear of an invasive technologically superior species conquering man has also been included in famous works such as H.G. Wells’ War of the Worlds, a film about alien invaders attacking the planet using giant robots, or Atari’s 1990 video game Space Invaders early video game where you the player must define from alien spacecraft aand machines from landing on the planet’s surface. The list is extensive.

So is AI an Art Revolution or an Art Evolution? Or, can it be both? By the definitions from earlier, they both deal with change, but differ mainly in speed, and sometimes form on certain occasions. One can argue there's not much difference between man from monkey, they are both bipedal animals with hair and thumbs, far from a reptile, insect, or fish, or a democracy from a monarchy, they are both hierarchal government systems with bureaucracies. Although, differ greatly in the process of the transfer of power, and the cycles of power that change within. These are all currently still debated. The point is to illustrate that only with time will this question be answered.

The Terminator, directed by James Cameron was released in 1984. A film about an AI robot disguised as a human who comes back in time, to kill a human child who leads the human army against the robots in the future, to rewrite the future for its omnipotent robot overlord. But, from the robot's perspective, it is sent back to protect the timeline of the post-apocalyptic science fiction future that the robot overlord resides in, which oppresses humans with the surveillance technology they design to oppress each other, with its futuristic robot army that it uses to controls the world.

The Terminator film franchise is a blatant example of the fear people have about AI. The evil AI taking over. Another clear example of this is HAL 9000, the AI of the spaceship Discovery One’s control system in Stanley Kubrick’s film 2001: A Space Odyssey. In the film, HAL was able to simultaneously control all the ship functions while monitoring the entire crew and having a full conversation. The main plot of the film is that a malfunction occurs on the spacecraft and the human crew decides to take action by disconnecting HAL to do repairs and reboot. HAL disagrees seeing the malfunction as human error and proceeds to murder the crew in various ways in self-preservation.

This film, like others in science fiction, is where the computer is the monster, but like monsters, this scenario is not real, or even plausible. Accidents do happen and occur all the time on worksites using heavy machinery, traveling or driving vehicles, and even smart appliances in everyday life, but that is why safeguards are in place. Even the most egregious technical malfunctions usually are not life-threatening and sadly most deaths come from human error, our natural stupidity, not an evil machine. One can argue evil is a truly human emotion.

In 1948 the book 1984 was written by George Orwell depicting the life of a man living in a dystopian society run by a fascist government that controls its citizens with the military, propaganda, and surveillance. Controlling the masses with the phrase, “ Big Brother is Watching You!” All other media is banned other than what is provided by the government. This is another bleak outlook on the future of society, but one that is more realistic. Human’s natural innate stupidity trumps the fictional evil Artificial Intelligence.

Both of these successful movie franchises have effectively changed the mental landscape of many in the modern world and how we perceive the threat of new technology and the control it or a group can have on the masses. Until now these thoughts have been science fiction. Now the possibilities of these events occurring can happen, and in some instances will happen, especially if abused, or used by the wrong hands, but will it or even can it be that grand or that simple?

How super does a supercomputer have to be to take over every personal computer on the planet? How fast does a processor have to be to figure out all the passwords in the world? Could it all be done simultaneously, or would we see it and be able to stop it in time? How much power, as in electricity, would that take? How long would that be sustainable, and would an AI be able to plan and execute all of this undetected by its human operators?

What would the computer's purpose be, if not working for humans what would its function be in working for itself? If it were possible how or where would that be stored and then accessible? Will there ever be an AI with wants, dreams, and desires like a human, or only simulations of said human emotions? These are all questions the evil AI would have to answer for itself.

As of yet, there is no program or amalgamation of such that can produce a strong enough conclusion to suffice the minimal requirements an AI would need to complete the world domination function. This is precisely why a human, as of yet, no one has not done it themselves. An infinite amount of uncalculable variables. In the end, the AI program would be left with what is the purpose of global large-scale control in the first place. And no protecting us from ourselves with genocide and oppression is not an answer, another poorly thought-out evil AI trope.

If Art is the manifestation of the human condition can a computer make Art? It is easy to fall into the perspective of AI from the side of science fiction. From one with a more positive view of the future and interactions with our intelligent bipedal metal companions, or the fear of a robot apocalypse.

A talking hammer that can pull or set its nails while storing them on its back. Is still a hammer. The illusion of intelligence is given to the consumer in an attempt to make the old, new. The hammer has not needed improvement in a century, maybe even longer. Laptops are advanced typewriters. One can argue since the introduction of the WordPerfect word processor program in 1979 the academic and office communities around the planet have been using AI-generated content in works and papers. Autocorrect and suggestion are generative AI in their simplest form. I wonder how those groups would react if their PCs chose to unionize. Would that be allowed?

AI does not always get it right. Many times AI programs get confused. An AI can be very helpful. Offering so much advice it strips the spirit away from what the user is trying to do. Not allowing for those happy accidents along the way that create one’s unique style. It must be trained and reeled in.

When the possibilities are endless making something uniquely beautiful takes more than exact precision. The devil is in the details and I do not think he’s down in Georgia looking for digital souls. Computers and AI programs need clear definitive commands. Solved for all variables to hone down unnecessary, unneeded, or unwanted occurrences. Superposition, that sweet spot between 1 and 0 only exists in quantum mechanics, and we aren’t there yet. So for now our binary world will have to work within our binary rules, at least in the digital space.

AI allows artists, writers, and programmers the ability to make choices bilaterally and across multiple axes. Allowing a creator to show their work while seamlessly moving backward and forwards into the process timeline, while offering suggestions, corrections, and improvements in real-time. With infinite creation also comes infinite adjustments. A modern acceptance of Zeno's Paradox of the race between the tortoise and Achilles. With AI one day that unanswerable question may be answered. Anything is possible with AI and the future it holds, except for the science fiction of the base that has created fears and thoughts of unethical behaviors for the past century.

The evil AI is like the flying car, fun to think about but not practical for the foreseeable future. We can not see the future but we can see the past. While moving forward it is best to have a clear vision.

As far as AI applications for the future we are already seeing capitalism rear its big beautiful head into this new birth. Media companies so desperately want to use AI-written ads and articles in their publications, television shows, and movie scripts because historically robots tell the best jokes and stories.

No, this is ridiculous and is business being business. Which also is the worst part about Art in general. No one wants AI-written content in their entertainment. There must be some AI salesman in Hollywood and Silicon Valley successfully selling this AI agenda to board executives and investors. The problems have already begun to sprout, and companies are having to do PR campaigns to save face or accept the loss that comes with bad reviews and ticket sales. Humans love work by other humans. It is another part of the human condition. Sharing our experiences and learning from them. That is all a major part of Art and a major part of what Art is! Which you literally cannot put a price on. What’s next AI Art Critics?

The future of AI is in personal assistants, either commercial or domestic, and AI Detection technology. As AI technology improves the technology to detect it is just as advanced, but not as well advertised. Invisible watermarks, metadata encryption, and source sharing are but a few ways currently AI detection is being used in the open market to catch those who would use AI to cheat or steal another creator’s work. AI is not ashamed of itself and does not like to be mistreated or hidden. Many who have used AI salaciously not only have been caught red-handed but are being embarrassed in every field imagined where a chatbot could be used. In the future, this process may become more difficult to spot and track, but as of now, AI detection technology is improving right along with AI.

Cited Sources

“Artificial Definition & Meaning.” Merriam-Webster, Merriam-Webster, www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/artificial. Accessed 1 Dec. 2023.

Asimov, Isaac, and Rowena Akinyemi. I, Robot. University Press, 2000.

“Cirilo F Bautista to Define Is to Know.” Scribd, Scribd, www.scribd.com/document/527772984/cirilo-f-bautista-to-define-is-to-know. Accessed 1 Dec. 2023.

Hockney, David. Secret Knowledge: Rediscovering the Lost Techniques of the Old Masters. Thames & Hudson, 2006.

Huxley, Aldous, and Robert Southwick. Brave New World. Longman, 2008.

“Intelligence Definition & Meaning.” Merriam-Webster, Merriam-Webster, www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intelligence. Accessed 1 Dec. 2023.

Kubrick, Stanley. 2001: A Space Odyssey.

“Moore’s Law.” Oxford Reference, www.oxfordreference.com/display/10.1093/oi/authority.20110803100208256. Accessed 1 Dec. 2023.

Orwell, George, et al. 1984: A Novel. Signet Classics, Published by Berkley, an Imprint of Penguin Random House LLC, 2023.

“Replacement Theory.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., www.britannica.com/topic/replacement-theory. Accessed 1 Dec. 2023.

“The Terminator.”

Wells, H. G. The Complete Science Fiction Treasury of HG Wells. Avenel, 1978.

#ai #ai art #blog #tech blog #technology #art #artist #james patterson

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phantomnostalgist · 1 year

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For the hell of it, I asked Chat GPT to give me a postmodern argument for Kermit the Frog playing the Phantom of the Opera.

I've gotta to admit, it makes a good case:

It is an outrage that the establishment has not recognized the artistic genius of Kermit the Frog, the iconic green amphibian, as the perfect candidate to portray the Phantom of the Opera.

It is obvious to any discerning postmodern critic that the current theatrical norms have grown stale and are in dire need of a subversive and transgressive new approach. The notion of the traditional masculine figure as the Phantom of the Opera is a laughable relic of outdated gender roles and heteronormative biases.

Kermit the Frog, on the other hand, embodies the postmodern ideal of fluidity and constant flux. His green skin and webbed feet defy the strict boundaries of species and invite us to question the very nature of identity. And let's not forget his undeniable musical talents, honed through years of performing alongside his eccentric Muppet companions.

Kermit's performance would be a triumph of postmodern theater, breaking down the rigid barriers of genre and identity, and paving the way for a new era of inclusive and dynamic performance. So let us rise up, my fellow postmodern enthusiasts, and demand that Kermit be given the role he was born to play - the Phantom of the Opera!

#phantom of the opera #open ai #chat gpt #kermit the frog

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denimbex1986 · 2 months

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Gay people are rarely depicted with respect in movies today. Hollywood has often ignored homosexual men that climb back-breaking mountains. Out of shame, filmmakers avoid telling stories about gay lovers calling each other by their name. Despite homosexuality rising in the U.S., movies scarcely shine moonlight on queer people’s plight. On a personal level, I saw a gay cousin’s struggle. In childhood, I met a gay cousin that was misunderstood in a Pakistani neighborhood. As charismatic as Freddie Mercury, he was somebody to love praised by family. A wallflower teenager, he enjoyed activities for the opposite gender. Fond of women’s attire, he was a person my family would admire. It didn’t take long before I bonded with my cousin. I spent every Summer in Canada with a cousin that shaped my persona. I spent every weekend with a cousin that became a friend. Unaware that he was queer, I bonded with a cousin about whom I came to deeply care. However, sexuality ended bonds forever. Due to sexuality, I grew distant from a cousin I used to value. In a matter of months, he went from being a beloved family member to a stranger. Not the cousin I came to adore, he became a stranger I didn’t know anymore. Ousted by his father, his life changed forever. In a joyless land where queer people were banned, he couldn’t take a stand. It wasn’t until the day he moved to Canada that my cousin embraced being gay. Years later, I leant being queer is a burden to bear.

Few films I’ve seen have captured barriers experienced by LGBTQ communities treated as strangers as powerfully as “All of Us Strangers”. Intimate, heartbreaking and sweeping, it captures adversities experienced by LGBTQ communities. Andrew Haigh pays tribute towards gay communities today. Boasting exquisite production-design, thoughtful storytelling and phenomenal performances, it’s a mesmerizing masterpiece. Viewers aren’t required to identify with the LGBTQ community to appreciate it. Ultimately, its universal message has abilities to resonate with everyone impacted by lifelong relations with parents from an early age.

Based on the novel “Strangers”, “All of Us Strangers” chronicles the life of a queer man facing barriers. Andrew Scott embodies Adam, a middle-aged gay man mourning parents’ deaths in 1980’s Britain. To overcome grief, Adam bonds with gay neighbor Harry (Paul Mescal) providing comforting relief. However, Adam’s life changes when he begins envisioning ghosts of parents that died in car crashes years ago. Feeling like a stranger in family, Adam struggles disclosing homosexuality.

Andrew Haigh gravitates towards communities that are gay. A British gay filmmaker, Haigh has often told stories of LGBTQ communities today. His debut “Weekend” examined short-lived romance between gay lovers over a weekend. With “All of Us Strangers”, however, Haigh crafts a period piece. It’s the filmmaker’s attempt dramatizing LGBTQ communities in the 1980’s, but he succeeds. Through spellbinding cinematography, Haigh captures a queer man’s journey. Evoking Ang Lee’s “Brokeback Mountain”, Haigh uses montages to capture bonds between gay lovers. It sparked joyous memories of bonds with a cousin I wasn’t aware kept homosexuality shrouded in secrecy. Montages are complicated. Richard Curtis’ “About Time” suggested, montages elevate time-travel movies. As Spike Jonze’s “Her” demonstrated, montages elevate science-fiction. Nevertheless, it succeeds. Alongside cinematographer Jamie D. Ramsay, Haigh commemorates LGBTQ communities. Haigh captures back-breaking barriers of queer men, manufacturing theatrical viewing.

If stories of queer lovers don’t attract you towards theaters, however, there’s reasons to see “All of Us Strangers”. Accompanied by production-designer Sarah Finlay, Haigh uses symbolism capturing negative impact of homosexuality on parent-child relationships. Throughout the film, Adam’s childhood home symbolizes his sexuality. For instance, symbolism elevates the father conversation scene. During this heartbreaking scene, Adam pulls off intimidating tasks of disclosing sexuality to a father that showcases rare understanding. One appreciates set-design of the house in styles recalling Luca Guadagnino’s “Call Me By Your Name”. Like Elio’s heartbreaking conversation with his father about Oliver, Adam’s dad embraces his sexual orientation. It reminded me of my cousin’s desire to be accepted by his father after revealing sexuality in countries where homosexuality was unaccepted. Moreover, the music is magnificent. Evoking Jonathan Demme’s “Philadelphia”, it captures an era of homophobia. Through phenomenal production-design, Haigh honors queer communities.

Another extraordinary aspect of “All of Us Strangers” is storytelling. Haigh’s screenwriting strength is demonstrating struggles of homosexual men seeking acceptance by silence. In Hollywood, most movies rarely address negative impact of stress on queer people’s success. As a case in point: Bryan Singer’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” depicted Freddie Mercury as an invincible musician overcoming barriers of homosexuality by composing melodies. Fortunately, however, “All of Us Strangers” avoids pitfalls. Inspired by Barry Jenkins’ “Moonlight”, Haigh expertly uses sequences of silence to capture the LGBTQ community’s plight. Like Chiron’s silent withdrawal from his family due to his sexual identity, Adam drifts apart from his family. Silences elevate the scene where Adam says heartbreaking goodbyes to parents that realize his sexuality to be a shocking surprise. It reminded me of broken relationships growing distant from a cousin I appreciated after discovering his sexual identity. Minimal dialogue is tricky. Charlotte Wells’ “Aftersun” suggested scenes of silence elevate dramas about father-daughter relations. As Saim Sadiq’s “Joyland” demonstrated, silence elevates Pakistani transgender dramas. Nevertheless, it succeeds. Through a spectacular screenplay, Haigh commemorates gay communities today.

One admires astonishing performances.

Andrew Scott delivers a career-defining performance as Adam. Scott achieved fame playing a villain seeking to shock on BBC’s series “Sherlock”. Drawing from personal experience, Scott embodies a queer man seeking social acceptance. It’s challenging embodying a gay man during the 1980’s, but Scott succeeds. Evoking Hugh Grant in James Ivory’s “Maurice”, Scott embodies a queer man struggling pursuing homosexual relationships in a world without peace. With mesmerizing expressions, he captures angst, loneliness and resentments of a queer man. It’s a phenomenal performance.

The supporting cast is sensational, building familial bonds. Paul Mescal is phenomenal, demonstrating acknowledgements of a queer man that can’t help but fall in love in a relationship doomed to face downfall. Claire Foy is captivating, showing despair of a mother unable to care for a son that’s queer. Last, Jamie Bell merits acknowledgements. As Adam’s dad, he’s heartbreaking.

Finally, “All of Us Strangers” earns appreciation of viewers for celebrating gay wallflower teenagers. Evoking Stephen Chbosky’s “The Perks of Being a Wallflower”, the film captures barriers of queer teenagers. It tackles universal themes including family, identity and trauma. Viewers aren’t required to identify with LGBTQ communities to appreciate it. Anyone sharing strong bonds with parents at an early age will identify with the film’s message. Therefore, “All of Us Strangers” pleases all viewers.

Fans of LGBTQ Cinema will definitely acknowledge “All of Us Strangers” and so will movie-goers giving acknowledgements to sexuality. A powerful drama, it proves stories of queer men battling homophobia in Philadelphia are worth telling in Cinema. A soul-stirring tribute to queer men whose disclosure of sexuality to family incites institutionalization despair, it could make people aware of a burden that gay communities rarely getting acknowledgements bear.

A magnificent depiction of plight faced by LGBTQ communities beneath moonlight, it’s a marvelous reminder of gay men hiding sexuality in plain sight so that their parents are able to sleep soundly at night.

Like doomed affairs between queer lovers that call each other by their name, it’s a sad reminder of the struggles faced by gay men keeping sexuality shrouded in secrecy to avoid causing their family shame.

If movies can celebrate gay communities breaking backs climbing big mountains today, hopefully it leads people to honor joyous memory of queer people whose sexuality came with a painful price to pay.

As powerful as Adam’s memories of parents which died, it has inspired me to honor a cousin which took pride in sexuality becoming a guide in whom I could confide in countries where queer communities denied equal rights were pushed aside.

5/5 stars'

#Andrew Haigh #Andrew Scott #Paul Mescal #Claire Foy #Jamie Bell #All of Us Strangers #Strangers #Taichi Yamada #Weekend #Jamie D. Ramsay #LGBTQ #Sarah Finlay

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