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#harold roark
mad-men-60 · 3 years
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1948
The Fountainhead
The Cortland Homes
We finally found the credit for the amazing sets:
Matte painting by Chesley Bonestell.
Illustrations by Harold & Lillian Michelson.
To all of you Si-Fi fans out there both names loom large
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haroldgross · 3 years
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New Post has been published on Harold Gross: The 5a.m. Critic
New Post has been published on http://literaryends.com/hgblog/nine-strangers-on-an-island/
Nine Strangers on an Island
[3 stars]
While Nine Perfect Strangers and Fantasy Island aren’t exactly direct competitors or even exactly in the same wheelhouse, there is a shared sensibility and sense of location that has me putting them together.
The reboot of Fantasy Island cleaves a lot more to the original series than the recent movie did. It manages to walk the line of light entertainment with an edge (well, a slight edge), and a slurry of emotional baggage from our hosts as well as the guests. In fact, the show is more a flip of the original, with the guests’ stories reflecting on the hosts’. Which also means that none of the stories are particularly deeply examined, there just isn’t time since the new Roarke and her assistant Ruby are eating up a good portion of the story time with their own issues. But even without the depth, the ideas of the stories are enough for you to enjoy without having to get too wrung out. But they are more snacks than meals. That probably isn’t enough to keep me coming back to it, even with the nicely nuanced efforts by Roselyn Sanchez and Kiara Barnes. But as a distraction with some interesting moments it may, on occasion, suffice.
Nine Perfect Strangers, on the other hand, is a darker and deeply diving examination of personal traumas, relationships, and revenge. It, too, manages to stay somewhat at the surface, or at least enough to keep from ruining your evening. But the performances are a lot more intense. Starting with Nicole Kidman (The Prom) and her crew, Manny Jacinto (Brand New Cherry Flavor) and Tiffany Boone (The Midnight Sky) who run the place and run at each other. And then there is the all-star cast of guests. The reteaming of Melissa McCarthy (Thunder Force) and Bobby Cannavale (Jolt) was one of my more favorite nods. But there is plenty to chew on with the others as well, from Michael Shannon (Knives Out) and Asher Keddie to the solo struggles of Regina Hall (Little) and Luke Evans (Pembrokeshire Murders). Even the simpering of Samara Weaving’s (Ready or Not) becomes something interesting over time. By the time the wheels come off (in an episode aptly named “Wheels on the Bus”) you’re committed to finding out how it can all resolve and you forgive some of the more outlandish choices. Be warned, the finale is improbable and can be interpreted in a couple different ways. It’s somewhat Fantasy Island in that respect, but in a more complete way.
Nine Perfect Strangers also has the advantage of being a short commitment rather than an ongoing series. Sometimes a short vacation is more desirable than an ongoing appointment. And certainly Fantasy Island is more an empty calorie snack than the other offering. Wherever you decide to vacation, neither will tax you too much, and both resolve enough to not feel frustrating.
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foundcarcosa · 7 years
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that v-day fandom meme
Your favourite non-canon ship? >> A top five at random: John Reese/Harold Finch (Person of Interest), Tony Stark/James Rhodes (Marvel), Jesse Custer/Proinsias Cassidy (Preacher), Roland Deschain/Eddie Dean (The Dark Tower), Garth/Lucien Fairfax (Fable II). Oh, and Dr Manhattan/Ozymandias (Watchmen).
Is there a ship you didn’t like at first but ultimately started shipping? >> SuFin (Sweden/Finland, Hetalia). I mean, it wasn’t so much that I didn’t like the ship, it was just that I didn’t really grok that I could have multiple ships for one character without them necessarily having to be in conflict with each other or having to “choose sides” (like some Team Edward vs Team Jacob shit). And at the time, I shipped DenSu (Denmark/Sweden) so I thought I had to stick to that.
What is the rarest rare pair (that you ship)? >> I have no idea. I mean, I’m also in several super-small fandoms, so it’s difficult to even tell if anything’s popular let alone rare in those. Also, I think my understanding of rarity would be skewed depending on how much I actually interact with large numbers of fellow fans.
Name a popular ship you don’t get the appeal of. >> I don’t think that really applies to me. I understand the motivations behind most ships (especially popular ones) -- I just don’t always agree.
What is your most fluffy + happy ship? >> Garth/Sparrow, I suppose. Sorrow and loss brought them together, but they burnt those things and stubbornly built something new on top of the ashes.
What is your most angsty ship? >> Heimdall/Loki is kinda on that level, because the same force that pulls them together is going to pit them against each other at the end of the world. Knowing that is some tough shit.
A non-canon ship that should be canon? >> I feel like Reese/Finch is probably like... canon in its own way. Just not in the way us fans imagine it, lol, but definitely some level of a ship.
Your oldest ship; the one you’ve shipped for the longest time? >> Mulder/Scully.
What ship represents the kind of relationship you’d love to have? >> You know, most of my ships represent one of my favoured relationship types. I have several, you see.
Is there a ship that makes your skin crawl? >> Nah.
What is a character you can only imagine in one particular ship? >> Nobody, really. I think of characters like people -- and I don’t think any person on earth is only able to have a romantic relationship with one other person on this entire planet.
What is your favourite canon ship? >> Mulder/Scully, I guess.
Name a ship that deserved more content. >> If I really think a ship needs more content, I might as well write it myself.
Is there a ship you feel gets undeserved hate in fandom? >> I feel every ship that gets hate fits this profile. Ship hate is not something I advocate or participate in.
What is the first ship you had? >> Also Mulder/Scully.
Is there a ship that made you realise something about yourself? >> Howard Roark/Gail Wynand made me realise I didn’t care a whit about Ayn Rand’s feelings, I was gonna make Roark mine and her dead ass was just gonna have to deal with it.
Is there a type of ship you always go for? >> I don’t think I have a type. I have too many ships and permutations of ships to really put them all in one box.
Is there a ship the writers have ruined for you? >> If I ship something, I’ll ship it my way no matter what the writers do.
Is there a ship the fandom has ruined for you? >> If I ship something, I’ll ship it no matter what fandom does. If I don’t, it still doesn’t matter what fandom does. A fandom doesn’t have power over me.
Have you ever created fan created content for a ship? >> Sure, I write fic all the time.
Favourite thing you’ve ever created for a ship? >> I have a lot of ship fic that I love up on AO3.
Is there a ship you’ll never admit you have? >> Why would I bother doing that...?
Have you ever started shipping a ship because of the fans? >> Yeah, because sometimes someone brings up a ship that I wouldn’t have thought of otherwise.
What is one scene you want to see happen for all your ships? >> Irrelevant.
Is there a ship you wish you didn’t know existed?  >> No.
Name a ship that ended like you wanted it to. >> In canon? Hannigram.
Name a ship that deserved better in the end. >> Reese/Finch. But I can work with what they got. (I STILL PREFER TO BELIEVE THAT FINCH IS ALSO DEAD--)
Is there a character you have several ships for? >> What, like... every character? Sometimes (usually) at once???
What is the ship you ignore 98% of canon for? >> I ignore 98% of canon for like, whole fandoms. (Looking at you, Dragon Age.)
Is there a ship you like but you dislike the fandom? >> I don’t think so... like, sometimes I’ll prefer not to use the fanon interpretation for a ship (I’m like that with a lot of Hetalia ships), but otherwise meh.
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41 Free Things To Do In Branson, MO
Branson offers great things to explore and experience to visitors of all ages.
It's a popular vacation spot for millions of people around the country every year because there are so many things to do that are free - like family activities, parks and gardens, tours and sightseeing and more.
Branson is the second name of the “Live Entertainment Capital” of the world, one of the nation’s most affordable & family-friendly vacation spots.
Discover the best and most fun activities and free things to do in Branson, MO:
  Branson Skate Park
Branson’s Skate Park is a perfect venue for sports lover and specially designed for skateboards, roller skates, and roller blades.
Table Rock State Park
Table-Rock-State-Park is best for fun water activities. A perfect site for hiking, mountain biking, camping, SCUBA diving excursions.
Avenue of Freedom
Can you imagine a beautiful collection of 100 American flags wave in the spring, summer, and autumn breeze?  Here, you can honor those who gave their lives in the September 11, 2001 attacks.
Inspiration Tower
When you book your vacation package through Branson Travel Office you’ll receive FREE tickets to the Shepherd of the Hills’ Inspiration Tower – for everyone traveling with you!
DOWNTOWN TROLLEY
Want to have an overview of some of Branson’s landmarks? The Trolley passes through Old Historic Downtown Branson, the Convention Center and the Branson Landing.
Month & Time:  March-December daily, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.   
Two trollies running at the same time
6. BRANSON LANDING FOUNTAIN SHOWS
The Branson Landing Fountain is a hotspot for both visitors and locals. This $7.5 million water shoots 120 feet straight into the air with a beautiful music and fire show for free every hour on the hour starting at noon.
College of the Ozarks
College of the Ozarks is one of the top colleges in the nation and has a beautiful campus worth exploring.
Moonshine Beach
Moonshine beach is one of the best places to enjoy and do some fun activities in Branson. Enjoy the sunshine and the beauty of this man-made sand beach with the whole family.
9. Curling Vine Winery
Experience an entertaining, free tour of winemaking at the family-run Curling Vine Winery. Their knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides make the story and traditions of winemaking fun for all ages. After the tour, you have the chance to sample Missouri-made wines. For kids and designated drivers, the winery provides special homemade grape juices.
Lakeside Wilderness Area
Lakeside Wilderness Area offers plenty of great scenery to enjoy. Discover the beauty of forest and woodlands in the heart of Branson. This area features over four miles of hiking trails, a waterfall, a cave, and a picnic area.
Branson Centennial Museum
Take a look at the rich history of Branson at the town’s free Centennial Museum. Learn about the history and founding of Branson. This free museum features rotating exhibits on the Civil War, railroads, bridges.
Branson Festivals and Events
Branson is well-known for its colorful art shows, music festivals and other fun events that are always free and open to the public. Check city and park calendars for upcoming events and free programs.
The Shrine of the Holy Spirit
Enjoy a moment of peace in the Shrine of the holy spirit. This is a beautiful, wondrous structure. The Shrine also offers a courtyard, sparkling fountain and plenty of seating areas.
  14. Table Rock Dam
Established in 1958, this massive engineering structure gave birth to Table Rock Lake. Crowds come to witness this powerful structure keep the waters of the White River at bay. Don’t forget to bring your camera with you so you can capture the beauty of this majestic place and it is best to visit early in the day if you want to avoid huge crowds.
15. Dewey Short Visitor Center
The Dewey Short Center is located across the dam and on the shores of the Table Rock Lake. There are interactive displays and exhibits regarding the native wildlife and the construction of the dam. It offers swimming and fishing sites as well as picnic areas, which can be used for no cost at all. You will also find some hiking trails starting and ending at the Dewey Short Visitor Center.
Henning State Forest
Covering an area of about 1,534 acres, the Henning State Forest offers scenic views and spectacular trails. You can get some breathtaking views of the countryside from an incredible lookout area and there is also a naturalist available to answer any of your questions. Throughout the forest, there is lots of wildlife to be seen, including the native birds, so it is best to take your camera along with you!
17. Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery
Located just below the Table Rock Dam, the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery is one of the most popular tourist sites in Branson. There are a number of beautiful aquariums in the center that showcase the native fish in Missouri. Families can take a walk through the fish hatchery and learn more about the glorious and native fish.
18. Lake Taneycomo
Fishermen from all around the country come to visit this downtown Branson Lake. Even if you are not into fishing, there are a variety of other activities like scuba diving, boating, hiking and picnicking that you can enjoy here. Lake Taneycomo doesn’t just offer lots of recreational activities such as fishing and hiking, but is also easily accessible, as it is located near the Branson Landing and Historic Downtown Branson.
 Lindwedel Winery
Located high on the hills in the Ozark Mountain, this winery overlooks scenic Branson. Guests can absorb the splendid views while they relax on the veranda or tour the winery where they can try out their delectable wines and signature cocktails! The good thing is that wine tasting is free of charge!
20.  Table Rock Lakeshore Trail
Starting from the Dewey Short Visitor Center, this beautiful trail goes on for 2.2 miles and ends at the Table Rock State Park Marina. You can hike or bike the trail in the spring season and you will come across a wide array of wildflower species and watch the serviceberry, redbud and dogwood trees in full bloom. If you decide to visit during the fall season, you will be able to see the colorful fall foliage of nature. Moreover, this place also offers stunning views of Table Rock Lake.
 Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area
Go northeast of Branson and you get the opportunity to explore more than 1,500 acres of woodland, forest, and glade habitat. This preserve features a permanent stream called Roark Creek, the White River Balds Natural area, and some gorgeous hiking trails. It is also home to various locations that were mentioned in ‘Shepherd of the Hills’, the classic book written by Harold Bell Wright.
 Copper Run Distillery
This award-winning distillery is a must-see for all whiskey fans and it specializes in vodka, molasses rum, and smooth corn whiskey (moonshine). You can take a free tour of the Copper Run Distillery where you‘ll learn the secrets of small-batch, handcrafted spirits.
23. Ballparks of America
Get some crackerjacks and peanuts and find a seat at the Ballparks of America facility for a thrilling baseball game! Here kids will be able to enjoy the best youth baseball tournament experience and you can attend and watch the games for free. The unique interior of the facility is designed to replicate the five American league baseball stadiums, which include the Detroit Stadium, Brooklyn Field, Chicago Field, Boston Park, and St. Louis Stadium.
24. The Stone Hill Winery
Visit the most awarded and oldest winery in Missouri to take a firsthand look at how Spumante is made. The Stone Hill Winery has a vast complex and gives free hour-long tours. Guests can first see a film on the tradition of winemaking in Missouri before they learn how sherry is made and how wine bottling is done. The tour comes to an end in one of the six wine tasting rooms, where visitors can sample a wide array of wines of Stone Hill. The wines range from the fruity and sweet Pink Catawba and Concord to the full-bodied, dry Norton, which is a red wine that has garnered international recognition. As for the kids, there are plenty of juices available for them to enjoy.
25. Branson Theaters
There are numerous Branson theaters that open their doors every Sunday morning for old-time get-togethers. Everything is done Ozark style and you can see your favorite Branson musicians and entertainers performing traditional gospel music and mingle with the locals, tourists and some of the town’s celebrities. Worship services are also hosted by some theaters, complete with testimonies and preaching.
26. Historic Downtown Branson
Since undergoing a transformation, the Historic Downtown Branson now drives heavy foot traffic. You can stroll and walk around freely through the beautiful streets and explore the new Liberty Plaza. There are some impressive historic buildings like the one that survived a huge fire in the 1990s and now houses a jewelry and bead shop called the Plum Bazaar, which opens seven days a week. Dick’s 5 & 10 is another must-see for anyone who visits Branson, as it is laden with everything you could possibly imagine!
Veterans Memorial Garden
For decades, this garden has honored American active duty personnel, veterans, and their families. It serves as a living tribute to the veterans and it has transformed into a spectacle of beauty under the expertise of Master Gardener Ben Kinel. Many other volunteers have put in considerable efforts and benefactors have also contributed money for this place. The beauty of the plantings and flowers changes with the season, but the honor and essence of what the garden represents remains constant.
Stockstill Park
There is a horde of activities that you can take part in at the Stockstill Park. It also has a creek that’s filled with fish and other forms of wildlife. Other than that, you can also find a skate park, tennis courts, and two large playground sets as well. If you are looking for a place that is perfect for families and offers fun activities and things to do in Branson MO, look no further than Stockstill Park!
Super Summer Car Cruise
The Super Summer Car Cruise boasts more than 400 vehicles on display that can be found in the Show ‘n Shine and it takes place in the second week of August. You can take part in a thrilling midnight night cruise across the Shepherd of the Hills Expressway that showcases more than 400 exotic vehicles! Find a place to fit in or sit by your favorite spot to enjoy the exciting show.
Mini-Golf
There are more than a dozen mini-golf courses that are spread out throughout Branson, which means visitors can find options for every skill level and age. However, the best deal that you will come across is the FREE round of mini-golf that you can get from Branson Travel Office when you use it for booking attractions, shows, lodgings, cabins and more.
North Beach Park
This park is located on the north end of the Boardwalk and is a splendid city park with picnic tables, benches, old-growth trees, fishing docks and plenty of room where people can relax and unwind, play horseshoes and throw Frisbees. It is a wonderful spot for going fishing, taking a scenic walk or for walking your pets.
Taneyhills Library
There is a community library in Branson that’s situated on the Pacific Street and is known to be quite an impressive one. To check out the movies and books, you will have to become a member, but you can freely browse the collections or take your children for spending some quality time in the Children’s wing.
33. Branson Parades
If there is one thing Branson knows how to do, it is how to put on a parade. Every year, they hold the massive Veterans Day Parade to support the nation’s military heroes during one of the largest celebrations in the country - the Veterans Week. In the first week of December, there is also a Christmas parade. This Adoration Parade is fully non-commercial because its purpose is to remind people of the ‘reason for the season’. There is another parade that’s held on the first of November for kicking off the Christmas season. The live entertainment industry of Branson is highlighted by the Most Wonderful Time of the Year Parade. This parade moves through Branson Landing whereas the other two take a route through Historic Downtown Branson.
 The Strip
Branson’s Strip is known all over the world and you can take a drive along the road to enjoy the glow of neon, the glitz, and glamor of the theaters and the multitude of restaurants and attractions. Presley’s theatre, the Titanic Museum Attraction, the World’s Largest Toy Museum, Lost Treasure Mini-Golf, Grand Country Resort, Great American Steak & Chicken, Pasghetti’s Italian Restaurant, the Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Odditorium that was seemingly damaged by an earthquake, and the Hollywood Wax Museum are just a couple of places that make for a fun sightseeing trip - making it one of the best things to do in Branson MO!
The White River Valley Trail System
Located on the south side of the Lake Taneycomo, the White River Valley Trail System refers to a series of mountain-biking trails that were opened in 2011. The Coalition for Recreational Trails gave it a national award in the same year. It is a 6-mile hike, which includes the two trails that are called Red Trail and Blue Trail respectively. There is also a connector trail between them that stretches for half a mile. A tranquil pond can be found on the connector trail where you can take a break and have some quality food.
Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church
Established in 1921, Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church has served Branson since day one. Even though it has changed its locations several times, it remains true to its purpose and more than 3,000 parishioners visit the church every Sunday for attending The Mass and they also welcome visitors and guests. The Mass schedule is as follows:
Saturday: 5:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM
Monday, Tuesday and Thursday: 9:00 AM
Friday: 9:00 AM
Branson Mill
The largest craft village in Branson is none other than the Branson Mill and it is every visitor’s dream destination for unique and handmade gifts. This craft mall is climate-controlled and is spread over 40,000 square feet. Here, the craftsmen and women of the city demonstrate their skills and talent and create one-of-a-kind gifts.
 Williams Memorial Chapel
Developed in 1956, the Chapel has an impressive structure that stands 150 feet tall and 80 feet wide. It is regarded as an exceptional example of neo-Gothic architecture and it boasts a vaulted ceiling that’s 80-foot high and has beautiful stained glass windows. It also has the Hyer Bell Tower that’s attached to the chapel. Sunday services start at 11 AM and can be attended by the public for free.
 The Gaetz Tractor Museum
There is a variety of antique farm equipment and tractors to be found at the Gaetz Tractor Museum and some noteworthy items that you should check out, including a reaper that was made in 1910 and a gray Wallis hailing from 1918.
Creation Experience Museum
This is a Bible-based museum that supports the history of the Bible through the use of science. This includes paleontology, anthropology, geology, biology, and archaeology. Special attention is given to the dinosaurs. Tours are conducted by trained tour guides from Wednesday through Saturday between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM. As for tours of the nature trails, you can make an appointment for them. The admission is free of charge and families are welcomed and taken on guided tours where they witness the stunning artifacts, fossils, and artwork. There is also an extensive biblical store and the museum is open year-round to welcome visitors from all regions.
Crown Valley Distillery
This is the first distillery in Branson that specializes in Whiskeys and Bourbons. Several tasting options are offered to the crowd and other than Whiskey, the visitors can also taste their wines, ciders, beers, and spirits - making it one of the most remarkable things to do in Branson, MO! The atmosphere is family friendly and the products made in Missouri such as the Big Bison Meat Products and the Country Folk craft soda line are showcased here. You can visit on Friday and Saturday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM and 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Sundays.
  Original Post Here: 41 Free Things To Do In Branson, MO
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haroldgross · 4 years
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New Post has been published on Harold Gross: The 5a.m. Critic
New Post has been published on http://literaryends.com/hgblog/fantasy-island-2020/
Fantasy Island (2020)
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[3 stars]
It’s easy to forget that Fantasy Island wasn’t all 80’s kitsch and sweetness, it had a dark side. This remake tries to capitalize on that aspect. And, for the most part, it’s successful, even if the logic is stretched and the plot falls apart near the end. But up till then, director and co-writer Jeff Wadlow, along with the rest of his previous Truth or Dare? team (Jillian Jacobs and Chris Roach), is somewhat clever in how he helps it embrace both aspects of the classic show.
Much like the original, this is a collection of stories. In the wide-ranging ensemble, Lucy Hale (Truth or Dare?), Maggie Q (Priest), and Jimmy O. Yang (Space Force) stand out by force of charisma. They’re joined by a number of other good players that bump the plot along, such as Michael Rooker (Brightburn), Portia Doubleday (Mr Robot), and Parisa Fitz-Henley (My Spy). The rest of the cast serve simply to fill out the story; not poorly, just not memorably.
However Michael Peña (Dora and the Lost City of Gold), in the pivotal Mr. Roarke roll, feels utterly wrong. You have to be both pulled to the man and terrified of him. Peña has neither the presence nor the menace necessary.
What I will grant the movie is that it is a movie, not just an overblown TV episode. But while it can stand on its own, I suspect it has much more impact as a retcon of the series. Were it not for the wobble near the end, it would have been much more satisfying. But it’s a pretty big wobble as it tries to wrap it all up. Fortunately, the final moments are a bit more fulfilling. As to whether you should book a trip here…well, that’s up to you.
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