#is there a shortage of light in Hollywood
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I’ll Never Fall in Love Again: Scene 3: Flashback to the Proposal
Rating: T for now
Fandom: The Bubble
Pairing: Dieter Bravo x f!reader (UPDATE: reader was not born in America. Feel free to choose your country of origin....)
Warnings: none. Bright light, french toast.
A/N: Welcome to the first of several flashbacks….
…Three years ago….
“So, I may have a solution to your little problem,” Morgan smirked, waiting for the server to warm your coffee and leave you in peace before dropping the other shoe, “but you’re not gonna like it.”
The high windows of the upscale eatery let in so much of the SoCal sunshine that you wondered if it was creating a shortage elsewhere. Everything here was white and silver, sun bouncing off every surface–you’ve seen crystal chandeliers give off less sparkle and light.
“Listen. I feel clotheslined by having to fly back and forth all the time and the visas and fees and flytimes and taxes are killing me,” you sighed, taking the time to cut up your cardamom french toast. “Now you’re telling me that this film could get me a bid for an Oscar nod. I want to be here, M. Full time. I want to be on hand. My career is taking off. If I could only put down roots– Look. I’m willing to do just about anything. I’ll pull a sham marriage if it will get me a green card and a citizenship.”
Morgan leaned on her elbows, her mock-evil smile peeking out from behind her folded hands, her eyebrows riding high as she stared at you, waiting for you to catch on.
And when you did, choking a little on your coffee, eyes wide with disbelief--surely she didn’t mean– “Really? You’ve got to be joking.”
“I’m not. It happens more often than you think. Couple of I do’s, signatures, a few interviews, bam, one year later, you’re one of us.”
“Jesus, M.”
“I’m just going to let that sink in.” She liberally siracha’d her scramble, putting on a show of patiently waiting.
“Who.”
“Well, before I say–”
“Who, M.”
“Dieter Bravo.” At least she had the decency to be quiet while you blinked at her.
“What?”
It was only when you turned your view to the toast basket in thought that she started up in a desperate effort to talk you into it. “It’s actually a really great opportunity for both of you–”
“Morgan. Hush.” Open hands, insert head. “I’m going to let you speak, but you have to give me one full minute to wrap myself around what you just said.”
The butter knife bounced a reflection of your agent pulling up her sleeve to consult her watch.
Dieter Bravo.
You’d just come off a job with him–The Fall of Timon.The final edits were being made and the effects laid in. You still had ADR on the books, but the reshoots were done. And the early buzz was good. Really good, actually. It was already picked up for several festivals and the press circuit would most definitely be massive….
And Dieter was no less than brilliant in it. (You’d seen all of his work. He was always pretty brilliant.) Even though you had a scant number of scenes in the film, most of them were with him.
You’d been nervous to work with him but he’d been different than expected. The press made him out to be some insufferable Hollywood brat–someone who went rogue if he was inspired, or lazy if he didn’t get his way–someone undirectable but who made brave choices and put out a captivating product. He seemed bored in interviews, not really giving much when asked about his career, preferring to let people think he didn’t watch his own stuff, that this was just a job like any other. He just punched the clock and went home to smoke a joint at the end of the day to forget about it. Effortless. The diva playing humble.
But that’s not the Dieter you got on set. He’d been…generous. Attentive. An amazing scene partner. If you tried a new direction, he followed. And he would often surprise you, but never to the point of upstaging you; he knew when to let you shine. He challenged you, but spotted you, always right there with you in every scene. The two of you had chemistry. Not of a romantic nature–although early screencaps of your shared scenes often had the trades captioning them with trite words like “electrifying” and “mutually captivated”--but of a professional nature.
A couple of old friends had asked you if he had ever been forward or condescending, if he had ever been drunk and cynical when the cameras were off or if he cornered you–
It was the Dieter people expected. But not the one you got.
Oh yes, there had been a few playfully misogynistic nicknames–which you allowed because it was obvious that he was being ironic and teasing, if not extremely juvenile. And he had kissed you–once–after a press party where you’d been happily buzzed and he’d gotten sloppy drunk. But it had been a mutual joke, funny and flirty and par for the course at an industry party. You were friends and having a laugh. You may have even goaded him on. And there was never any indication that he remembered it the next day, so there was nothing to be embarrassed about. You never really thought twice about it. Next day back on set, nothing but respect.
But his eyes might have shined a bit more after that. With trust. With friendship. An equal.
What you came to understand was that Dieter had been following your short career and saw potential in you. Not just your talent, but your choice of projects. He admired you. You weren’t just a co-worker for the month you joined the cast, you were a partner. A kindred working spirit.
“As I was saying,” Morgan flicked her sleeve back over her watch and went back to her eggs, “I ran into his stylist at an event in the Hills and we talked, and you came up and then your visa issue came up because she was going through the same thing a few years back. And I get this call two days later; his team is looking for a way to smooth out all this…Venice Beach business.”
Ah yes. Early morning joggers had found him sleeping naked on the beach about a month back. Apparently he was still high from the night before and babbling something about the ocean being his cosmic mistress. The joggers tried to help him, things escalated, and he took a swing at one, punching out a tooth (correction: karate-chopping out a tooth).The tabloids were still milking it, starting to label him not just as a diva but as possibly really losing it. And this, just mere weeks after having been caught on camera making weird angry bull sounds at the paparazzi who wouldn’t stop photographing him exiting his meditation center…
“I see.” You sized up your agent, trying to figure out just how devious she was. “And you just piped up and said, ‘boy, do I have just the sucker–’”
Morgan stabbed at her eggs. “Bravo suggested it.”
“What?”
“Well,” her hand flicked flippantly as she paused to swallow, “Mm. I mean, his PR team’s been trying to find a way to soften his image, charity work and such, but nobody will have him and it’s not really his jam. Stylist must have spilled the beans, because he came up with the whole thing and brought it to them. Mutually beneficial. Said it could get you your green card and it might look good to get him paired with someone who would neutralize him.”
“Me? Why?” Did he really think that highly of you? Or just the opposite–as stupid and looking for anyway to get your name in the press?
“Well it makes sense, doesn’t it? It’s convenient. You two met on a job. There were those press shots, and just enough speculation for it to be feasible–”
“--which got shut down when those photos of him and Corrina Heinz came out–”
“Psh. One little fling with an heiress. Easy to explain as a on-par Dieter-esque modus operandi if the two of you were quarreling–”
“--we were never together!”
“But you could be!”
A sip of coffee. A bite of french toast. You sighed the sigh of someone who couldn’t believe she was considering this. “You realize that to get my green card I’d have to live with him for three years.”
“We can get that cut to one, no problem, especially if you get that Oscar.”
“Okay, fine. Still. What. Am I supposed to live with him for a whole year?”
“He’s got a big house, you won’t even notice each other. And how convenient that you’ll be doing a press tour for some of it! That’s time you’ll be in the same place in the public eye but you won’t have to live together.”
“Except then we’ll be expected to share hotel rooms.”
“Oh. Well. We can get around that, don’t worry. It’s already in your rider that you get your own rooms. We’re just working out the details of making sure your room and Bravo’s are always adjacent with joining doors, keep up the pretense–”
“Wait. What do you mean, ‘we’re working out the details?’ That sounds like…a thing you are doing now, M. Present tense.”
“What are you doing on the last Sunday next month? I pulled some strings and got a beachside venue on Catalina Island. Same place Harrison Ford married–”
“Morgan! Are you serious? I mean, this going really quick–”
“Because I think it’s a good move. And I don’t want to give you time to think because you’ll come up with some reason to back away. Listen, kitten.” The woman who had been instrumental to your success--who you trusted, who had proved many times over that she had your best interest at heart--laid down her fork and reached across the white linen to take your hand. “Say no if you want to and this machine stops. But this is a lucky opportunity and you’re just friends helping each other. That’s all. One year, eighteen months tops, you get your card, you file for amicable divorce, you’re done. You want that citizenship, right?”
“I suppose. You’re sure Dieter’s okay with this?”
“Promise, kitten. I really wouldn’t be bringing this to the table–and certainly not one this expensive–if I didn’t think this was a good idea.”
Her blue eyes held yours with as much care and gentleness as her hand squeezing at your fingers. She was right, it’s a common story; happens all the time. “Catalina’s pricey. I’ll be working the rest of my life to pay for it.”
“Ah,” patting your hand and going back to her scramble, “Dieter’s paying. Offered to.”
“Oh.” Well. That…made sense, you supposed. Maybe. Not sure.
“You take some time to think about it. I’ll give you a call tomorrow morning.”
“Okay.”
You remember the french toast being very sweet. And maybe the sun had shifted in the sky, but instead of bouncing off the glassware now, it shone right though. Crystal clear.
______
When your phone rang that evening, at first you assumed Morgan was jumping the gun. Then you saw that you assumed wrong.
“Dieter. Hi.”
“Heyyyyyy, missus.”
“Hey.” Hopefully your little laugh sounded more friendly than awkward. “It’s been a while. I heard you were working on Woo’s film--”
“Yeah. Listen.” His little laugh definitely sounded friendly and awkward. “You really on board with this whole thing? I know your agent gave the thumbs up, but I’m not going forward unless I hear it from you that you’re okay.”
And suddenly, that’s all it took. The fact that he made the time to call and ask. That he cared even a little. “I am, actually. It’s really fast, but the timing works and the sooner we start the clock, the sooner we’re done, right?”
“Right. Yes. Amazing. Thanks, baby cakes.”
“I should be thanking you and you know it.”
His bigger laugh was relieved and relaxed. “And I promise I’ll be on my best behavior. I’m not going to make it look like you’re gullible and married an asshole.”
“Oh, I see. We’re starting early with the vows. And I get to play the girl that soothes the savage beast.” An allusion to the role you’d played in The Fall of Timon–a soothsayer that managed to be the cap in the bottle for his transforming character.
“Well. Not to typecast you. But you are pretty good at it, cakes. Oscar-worthy.” Something in his voice softened with that phrase, hard to decipher. “Hey. What are you doing this weekend? Do you wanna get the mill grinding?”
“Uh…sure? What did you have in mind?”
“Well, thought maybe we could go to the Farmer’s Market and Grove on Saturday. Get some burgers and beer, do some shopping. And I have an event on Sunday. You have a stylist? We could make an appearance–”
“That…yes…but…The Market?? You’ll get mobbed, D. We’ll never get out of there.”
“Eh. Hat. Sunglasses. That tried and true bullshit.”
“You think they won’t recognize you.”
“Oh they will. That’s the point. Just enough to be seen, but obvious that we wanna keep it to ourselves, have a normal day. That’s when people keep their distance and get their phones out. We didn’t ‘show up somewhere,” we were ‘spotted together.’”
Spotted together. Like a game. Oh, maybe this was going to be fun. With Dieter? Suddenly even more so. “I see. In that case, can I get empanadas and ice cream instead then?”
“You can have anything you want. It’s on me. It’s all on me, cakes.”
“Nice. Great. Alright then,” you laughed. “I think you’ll make a fine husband, Mr. Bravo.”
You could almost see the smile that filtered through the phone. “I think you’ll make a fine wife, Mrs. Bravo.”
“Oh no. Don’t you dare. I’m keeping my own name. Yours is atrocious.”
That smile seemed to widen. “How dare you. That name came to me during a soul journey in Death Valley.”
“You told me you chose it out of a sock while you were high.”
“What. I didn’t lie. Both can be true. But that’s fine. Maybe I don’t want you using my good name. Far be it from me to force anything on you. Ever.” He let the implication of that–the certainty and weight of it–hang for a moment, his version of this strange marriage’s second vow. “Thanks again. It’ll be good to see you. I’ll pick you up noon on Saturday, okay?”
“It’s a date.” An immediate cringe you hoped he couldn’t hear through his end. “In that I mean, it’s on the books.”
“I got you. See ya, babes.”
You stood staring at your phone for a good solid minute, but seeing a million question marks instead. In all your wildest dreams, you never imagined your someday wedding to be going quite like this. What an extraordinary and odd life...
When you looked up, you found that your feet had taken you to your closet. Time to decide what you would wear for Saturday, remembering that you wanted something to please the cameras–
The cameras. And nobody else.
______
______
NEXT
SERIES MASTERLIST
MASTERLIST
#i'll never fall in love again#dieter bravo#the bubble#the bubble fanfic#dieter bravo x reader#dieter bravo x f!reader
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Distracted, Desperate, Determined [Pt. 2]
Summary: If going about it by underhanded means took him nowhere, Baxter decides to be direct. Jamie is also direct, in response.
Rating: R - Content features heavy themes. Not suitable for most audiences. Consult warnings before proceeding.
Explicit depictions of violence. Reader discretion is highly advised.
Words: 1025
Notes: Leering bosses suck. Even when they’re hot.
Baxter was a man, desperate.
Like a starving dog. Like a traveller who had not seen water in thirty days. Like a distraught, distressed, disturbed prison escapee, wandering through a maze of a library, cursing the existence of every shelf that separated him from her.
He knew where Jamie would be. She is a creature of habit, and he had already had more than enough time to memorize her routine. He had had enough time to memorize everything about her, as ashamed as he was to admit it. It was a testament to his devotion, to how much time he had spent trying and failing to win her favour.
It was evidence of how pathetic he had gotten over the course of his one-sided pursuit, too.
Instead of competing for attention on Beverly Hills or Rodeo Drive, Baxter pontificates out of his office in Downtown, letting his clients go out of their way to meet him, and he has no shortage of those willing to make the trip. It made his commute from his penthouse much more pleasant, he gets more space for the same amount of rent money and it is more convenient for his employees, too.
Jamie, herself, usually takes the metro from her apartment in East Hollywood down to the office. At noon every day, she goes out to a cheap Korean restaurant around the corner, and then walks to the Central Library to rest amongst the volumes housed there.
Baxter went after her. She was hidden in her usual spot , tucked into the far corner of the library, back to the concrete wall, her attention monopolized by the old book spread across her lap. She was still pouring over it by the time he reached her, slumping against the opposite pillar, taking in how brilliantly the muted artificial lighting looked as it danced across her skin.
He does not try to hide the way he stared anymore. He was long past worrying that she would care enough to notice.
Her hair was unkempt, proof that she had run out on the street, probably to make to an appointment with one of her friends at the Korean restaurant, all of them he knows the names of, none of them he was ever introduced to. Her lips were bleeding, too, the lower one chewed raw and split down the middle, but it might have been stranger if they were not.
It must have been a nervous tick, but Baxter found it cute. Baxter found it endearing. Baxter found everything about Jamie endearing, and in the name of a god he does not believe in, he wanted to see those lips wrapped around his…
He hated it. He found everything about her endearing, and he hated it. That was all.
He sighed, the sound airy, exhausted. She does not look up, but that was fine. It would’ve only hurt him further if someone as simple as that drew out her concern.
“I’m in love with you.”
There was a hum, soft and contemplative. A rather generous response, by her standards.
“I’ve noticed.”
“You’re all I think about.” It was an awkward confession, one that he had already used a hundred different times. He did not care. He would use it a hundred more, if he had to. “I’m a wreck. I can barely remember my own name, and some days I can’t even do that. I can’t work, I can’t eat, I can hardly breathe. Every morning, I wonder what it would be like to wake up to your smile, and every night, I stare at my ceiling and loath myself because I’m not holding you in my arms. For fuck’s sake, just yesterday, I almost kissed Xavier because the essences they were working with reminded me of the way your favourite kind of dessert smells, and I’m just so fucking desperate, I convinced myself that was the closest I’d ever come to kissing you.”
He was rambling, by the end, panting, yelling, but she only blinked when he was done, once, then twice. Her dull nails bit into the edges of her book, but she does not seem to mind, nor did she move to close it as she finally turned to face him, the confusion written clearly across her expression.
“Did you kiss Xavier?”
“You don’t get it.” He said, and she nodded in agreement. “You don’t fucking get it.”
“I think I do.” She admitted, more earnestly. Her gaze dropped back to the ground, and instantly, Baxter deflated. “I just… I just don’t think it’d work out, if I’m being honest. I’m still new. New out of college, new to LA, new to the workforce, I’m even too fucking young. I still have too much to prove, I need to give my parents and myself a reason to trust in me, and I don’t think it’s in my best interest to start a relationship with my boss so early on.”
Jamie suddenly paused, laughing to herself. Something in his chest tightened. It was the happiest he had been since he met her, and he still felt like she had pushed a knife through his heart and twisted.
“But you don’t really want a relationship, do you, Mr. Ward? I’ve been told, and I’ve seen for myself, the comes-and-goes of people in your office, and I’m absolutely sure not all of them are engaged to be married.” She chuckled bitterly at her own attempt of a joke. “You’re just bored, and you need something to fixate on. I’m the most available option, so...”
She trailed off, finishing her sentence with a vague, stilted sweeping gesture.
“It’ll be easier for both of us, this way. I like you, Baxter, but I don’t like you enough to put myself through that.” The young woman says, standing up to leave. “Or, perhaps, I like you too much.”
It was the first time she called him by his first name. It was all he could do to remember how to open his mouth.
Once Baxter did, the words came stumbling out on their own, every bit as pathetic as the man uttering them. “Of course.”
*_*_*_*_*
Distracted, Desperate, Determined Masterlist
Our Life Masterlist
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More of this in the visual-effects industry, please:
On the heels of more than a year’s worth of damning disclosures around Marvel Studios’ systematic overworking and underpayment of visual-effects workers on its blockbuster movies and streaming series, VFX crews at Marvel have finally petitioned to demand union recognition from the studio. On Monday, a group of more than 50 on-set employees filed a petition for an election to be represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) with the National Labor Relations Board. The workers are asking for the election to be held as early as August 21.
This marks the first time visual-effects professionals have banded together to demand the same rights, wage protections, and professional watchdog oversight enjoyed by workers in almost every other segment of the entertainment industry. The supermajority of Marvel’s 52-member on-set production crew signed authorization cards to indicate they wish to be represented by the powerful labor union representing some 170,000 artisans, technicians, stagehands, and craftspeople across TV, film, and live theater in the United States and Canada.
“For almost half a century, workers in the visual-effects industry have been denied the same protections and benefits their coworkers and crewmates have relied upon since the beginning of the Hollywood film industry,” VFX organizer for IATSE Mark Patch said in a statement. “This is a historic first step for VFX workers coming together with a collective voice demanding respect for what we do.”
In an era when around 90 percent of all films in release feature varying degrees of VFX fine-tuning (and it’s not uncommon for a show like Stranger Things to showcase up to 4,400 visual-effects shots across a single season), workers within the field have remained stubbornly, confoundingly unrepresented by any professional union or guild. While fellow below-the-line workers in such divisions as costumes and wardrobe; hair and makeup; lighting, props and paint; and script supervision have been historically championed by IATSE, underappreciated VFX professionals have been unable to claim benefits such as paid overtime and health care, and have been at the mercy of pronounced labor shortages and managers’ unrealistic deadlines — despite the workers’ increasing indispensability within popular culture.
“Turnaround times don’t apply to us, protected hours don’t apply to us, and pay equity doesn’t apply to us,” said VFX coordinator Bella Huffman. “Visual effects must become a sustainable and safe department for everyone who’s suffered far too long and for all newcomers who need to know they won’t be exploited.”
VFX workers have suffered studio abuse for far too long.
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Self Para: Xavier Laurent
Mentions: Nari, Maggie, Val, and Laurent family.
Where: In Xavier’s beachside home.
Things had been heart wrenching since getting back to Hollywood. Xavier was barely going through the motions and attempting to keep his problems away from those around him. He already felt horrible enough for unloading his emotions on Micah and Cely when they were dealing with much bigger things.
It was after a meeting with his manager that his phone rang, and Xavier nearly chucked the device across the room. Of course it was his father. The universe really just had a terrible sense of humor lately. On the fourth ring, he finally answered. “Hey, dad.”
“Xavier. Welcome back. I have to say, the pictures you sent your mother from Africa are amazing. It’s extraordinary work that you did over there,” Alexander Laurent said with his booming voice. However, there was pride mixed in the tone that Xavier wasn’t used to ever having directed towards him. Then again, he knew his father just believed the Peace Corps was just the kind of work to get someone liked and noticed by the people.
“Thanks dad. It was an experience I’ll never forget,” Xavier replied back in honesty.
“Well, now that you’re adding more meaningful endeavors to your resume, perhaps it’s time to seriously think about your future. You know I have nothing against the medical field. It’s admirable, and your mother is amazing at what she does. However, you have a legacy.”
Xavier had heard it all before, but for once he was considering caving. After losing Maggie and Nari, it felt like the only people he had left were Micah, Cely, and his family. Could he honestly keep on alienating the patriarch of his family by denying the man’s dream? All he’d wanted was a son to follow in his footsteps and continue making a tremendous impact on the world. Could Xavier truly fault him for that?
“I’m not promising anything, but can we start with an internship? And yes, in LA. I’m sure you have been just itching to make a call to one of your connections to get me into an office. With the elections ramping up next year, there shouldn’t be a shortage of work.” It was the last thing he’d ever wanted, but Xavier hadn’t been so lost before. It was as if everything was hitting him at once, and the people who so often kept his spirits lifted were either hurting themselves or out of the picture.
The pride in Alexander Laurent’s voice was higher than ever before, and it just broke Xavier’s heart even more. His father truly didn’t know his son, and he didn’t care to, unless Xav could become the man that he was “supposed” to be. “You’ll begin Monday. I’m not unreasonable, so we will begin part time so you can end any prior commitments or engagements. Xavier, begin looking for a girl to settle down with, son. Single men don’t tend to poll well.”
The last words were a dagger to the heart that he didn’t need, but he mumbled an agreement before the line went dead. There, in his home, he slid down the wall he’d been leaning against and gazed out to his panoramic view of the beach. For once, it didn’t inspire him with possibilities. Instead, it left him wondering where the light that guided him had gone.
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As a Soviet History person, this is one of my favorite things about Goncharov (1973)
I took exactly one film class in college and it was about cinema made in the Soviet Union. Since Goncharov (1973) is an American film we never watched it, but my professor did have some interesting things to say about it in particular…
If you’re not familiar, Russia in the 70’s was the central state of the communist Soviet Union, along with Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and 12 other republics. it was formed by a violent revolution during World War One and broke apart in the 1990’s.
As a communist state, the government of the Soviet Union (Or USSR) owned all means of production (aka resources needed to manufacture and distribute goods). This included films, and though the budget was small, the USSR produced news reels and informational shorts for its citizens. Despite the government’s tight grip on all industries, by the 1920’s individuals had began to make films and show them at local cinema houses… so long as they met the strict guidelines surrounding themes and content set out by the government.
Freedom of speech was never the Soviet Union’s thing per-se, and they were more (very) concerned with portraying their ideals, their government, and the lives of their citizens in a positive light. This often included supporting the tenants of Soviet Communism; majorly sameness in the name of unity. The way we celebrate art for individual expression? Telling unique stories? Not a belief shared by the USSR. As far as they were concerned, the people of their country didn’t have unique stories. They were one communal body and their differences weakened them. If art couldn’t be used to forward the collective good of the people (aka themselves, the government…) it wasn’t just useless, it could be a threat.
What this meant for the people of the Soviet Union was a lot of bad films ranging from bland to outright government propaganda (Don’t get me wrong, there were a lot of great works to come out of this time… you can’t just turn off artistic experssion, hence the college class, but this is not the post). Along with a strict ban on media from outside the country. ESPECIALLY the USA, the USSR’s arch nemesis (it was mutual) and general example of moral depravity (also mutual). But there was a strict ban on anything from outside the country… and consistent shortages of everything from shoes to bread to toilet paper. Underground, black markets became hugely popular and often permitted by the government (unofficially). Though they were contraband, ultimately American films weren’t that hard to find if you knew where to look (everybody knew where to look).
So the USSR and the USA were bitter enemies. As just about any consumer of American film can attest, this led to a generation of Soviet (Russian) antagonists, and negative, often crude misrepresentations of Soviet life and people. As a result, a generation of Americans (Cough cough Boomers) to have pretty sensationalized feelings toward the USSR. While the USA was vilified officially in similar ways by the USSR, for much of the Soviet population, who got so many of their black market goods from the USA, watched the Hollywood films, and read American Vogue, the USA represented excess, freedom of expression, and opportunity to contrast their lives of scarcity, sameness, and a pre-determined fate.
TL;DR The Soviet Union tried to ban American films but that didn’t work; their own films were often to censored to be any good.
So Goncharov. According to my professor, it was a massive favorite of people in Soviet Russia. Like anything, it was still hard to come by, so people apparently held screening parties in their apartments and made eye patches out of fabric scraps. It’s considered a Soviet “Classic” even though it’s not a Soviet film, and apparently after the USSR collapsed it prompted a lot of older Russian dudes to get really into Scorsese. See, Soviet citizens loved American movies for the Hollywood quality and escape into a totally unknown world— but, it got old to see themselves as the villains (or insulting interpretations of who Americans thought they were). But Goncharov (1973) portrays life in the USSR with the glamor of American movies, but grit and gloom that they identified with. The Soviet characters are fully developed, well-rounded individuals and not backwards, brainwashed commies. The mafia tie-in, I remember, came off about 50/50 since people liked the theme but the movie got a lot of details wrong. But the best part is what the best part always is… the gay subtext.
The early 70’s was the first real time of improvement for gay rights in the history of the Soviet Union, when it began to relax its censorship laws after criminalizing homosexuality among men in its earliest days. 1973, the year of the release of Goncharov, was actually the first time homosexuality was allowed to be the subject of a short monologue in a Soviet Film (Moscow to the End of the Line). My professor, who was Russian herself and in university at the time, discussed how the popularity and accessibility (emotionally anyway) of the film contributed to the growing gay-rights movement in Moscow.’
Representation really does matter y’all
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Urban Elegance: Event Photography in the Heart of Los Angeles
Event photography in Los Angeles isn't just about capturing moments; it's about distilling the essence of urban elegance amidst the vibrant backdrop of the city. From the sleek sophistication of upscale soirées to the eclectic charm of cultural festivals, Los Angeles offers a diverse tapestry of events that beckon photographers to weave their visual narratives.
Embracing Urban Sophistication
Los Angeles exudes an aura of urban sophistication, blending modernity with timeless elegance. event photographer in the heart of the city find themselves immersed in a world of sleek skyscrapers, chic rooftop venues, and stylish art galleries. Whether it's a corporate gala in Downtown LA or a fashion show in the trendy Arts District, photographers are tasked with capturing the refined allure of urban life.
Cultural Fusion and Diversity
As a melting pot of cultures and influences, Los Angeles boasts an eclectic array of events that celebrate its diverse tapestry of communities. From the vibrant street festivals of Little Tokyo to the colorful parades of Olvera Street, event photographers have the privilege of documenting the cultural fusion that defines the city. Each event offers a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and traditions waiting to be captured through the lens.
Iconic Landmarks as Backdrops
Los Angeles is home to iconic landmarks that serve as picturesque backdrops for a myriad of events. From the iconic Hollywood sign perched atop the hills to the glittering skyline of Downtown LA, photographers have no shortage of stunning vistas to frame their compositions. These landmarks not only add visual interest to photographs but also serve as symbols of the city's grandeur and allure.
Creative Expression and Innovation
In a city known for its creative energy and innovation, event photographers in Los Angeles are encouraged to push the boundaries of their craft. From experimenting with unconventional angles and lighting techniques to embracing cutting-edge technology, photographers have the freedom to unleash their creativity and capture moments in new and exciting ways. Whether it's a high-fashion photoshoot or an avant-garde art installation, Los Angeles provides the perfect canvas for creative expression.
Conclusion: Capturing the Essence of Urban Elegance
Event photography in the heart of Los Angeles is a dynamic blend of sophistication, diversity, and creative expression. From upscale soirées to cultural celebrations, photographers have the opportunity to capture the essence of urban elegance amidst the vibrant backdrop of the city. With its iconic landmarks, cultural fusion, and spirit of innovation, Los Angeles continues to inspire photographers to craft visual narratives that reflect the unique charm and allure of the City of Angels.
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What's the vibe? #55
News:
When you search for Sora OpenAI on google one of the results is the webpage “Sora could ruin people’s lives” which is a forum discussion from the official OpenAI Developer forum.
The original poster Soup.er Nova notes:
“You guys are going to end so many careers for people. Photographers, artists, animators, filmmakers, and possibly even actors. Being in these industry’s is hard already, and now with this people might not have jobs anymore.
The technology is interesting and very unique, and it’s amazing to see how far it’s come but I wish AI would advance in other careers than ones that people are passionate about. And not just this, what if people Create videos of others doing crimes that they did not commit. Will we be able to tell the difference between AI and reality? Will there be laws put in place? Will the world fall apart because of this?”
And if a 16 year old is worried about the ethics of it all, I think we should too. I do think this will take away from illustrators who have had their artwork used in the training process. In terms of moving image makers, I think this is a bit more of a complex but also not too complex idea. Low key I feel like people who want to create these kinds of things have a lack of discipline, a fear of failure and overall reflects this sort of culture where you must be able to have everything. I definitely feel like artists should look into haveibeentrained.com as you can remove your work from the data set.
I don’t think people who make individual work should be too worried - I think if Hollywood bosses love it we should be worried but I don’t know if I’d feel comfortable reading or being at the cinema watching a fake actor. It’s the humanity of it all, that’s why people have favourite actors, singers etc.
There are currently people out there making hours of music within minutes but why should we listen to music like that that has been made into a McDonalds-esque commodity? I don’t think the same people listening or creating this would be the same people attending the shows of the English National Opera, London Contemporary Orchestra of the Philharmonics of the world. This is its own new subculture of people who want to live in the synthetic.
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What people do have to be worried about is that the UK Film and TV industry is a very unsustainable career to work in even though its production spend was £4.23 billion over the past year.
To the surprise of no one with pockets, the UK is in a recession.
Birmingham Council is also bankrupt. The effects are staggering…
Birmingham City Council has confirmed it will raise council tax by 21% over the next two years as part of £300m budget savings. Street lights are to be dimmed, waste collections are to become fortnightly, while burial costs will increase.
DJ Sherelle (BBC /NTS/Hooversound) will curate a week at 180 Strand. move/003 is a free audiovisual installation themed around a night out, exploring "moments" such as colour, nostalgia and solitude.
Shein shoppers are much older and wealthier than I thought according to a UBS Securities report.
"The average Shein customer is female, 34.7 years old earns $65,300 in annual income, and reported spending $100 per month on women's clothing. That's 60% higher than the average US woman, UBS reported." It may be similar in the UK and Europe, how can sustainable brands get people to shop with them instead? How can you change someone's shopping habits?
What do tweens want? American tweens have something to say and it’s “we see your interests, let us in!”
Snax based matchmaking:
40 years of London Fashion Week, thank you very much:
Also Joanna Lumley is doing a lot of fashion appearances this month. A new angle for her during this time ? Burberry and at Completed Works?
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Chet Lo
Sinead O'Dwyer -
"This season, the designer will also be collaborating with the Hair and Care Project – a non-profit that trains blind and partially sighted people in hairstyling – on a tactile tour of the collection and audio descriptions, which is surely a first for London Fashion Week. Of course, O’Dwyer – for whom inclusion is such a given that she makes no mention of these practices in any of her press releases – left that detail under the radar." - Vogue Business
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Olly Shinder
JW Anderson
Srvc on a Bus?
Burberry - hm, feels like Daniels last chance post report. Attended by Skepta, Joanna Lumley, Lila Moss, Loyle Corner. Playing Back To Black by Amy Winehouse for the last walk is a bit ominous isn't it? It's the end of a relationship song? A farewell perhaps?
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Edward Crutchley (and his cowboyssssss)
Dilara Findikoglu
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Simone Rocha
Reading List?
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8 Life-Changing Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures to Transform Your Smile in New York City
We all know that a beautiful smile can be a game changer. Confidence soars, opportunities arise - your life can transform, all thanks to your dazzling teeth. If you're considering cosmetic dentistry in New York, you're in luck. With premier dental clinics like Aesthetic and Implant Dental Arts, there's no shortage of world class services available!
In this blog post, we will explore 10 incredible cosmetic dentistry procedures that are sure to make your smile shine. Get ready to say cheese!
Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures in New York
1. Teeth Whitening
One of the most common and effective cosmetic dentistry treatments is teeth whitening. Aesthetic and Implant Dental Arts offers both in-office and at-home whitening options to brighten your smile by multiple shades, providing a dazzling and noticeably whiter smile.
2. Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are ultra-thin, custom-made shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of teeth. They're great for correcting stained, chipped, or misaligned teeth, resulting in a perfect, Hollywood-style smile.
3. Dental Bonding
For those with minor tooth imperfections, dental bonding is an excellent option. It involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to the tooth and hardening it with a special light. This quickly and effectively repairs chipped, decayed, or discolored teeth.
4. Invisalign
Want straight teeth without the visibility of traditional braces? Invisalign offers an almost invisible alternative to braces with clear, custom-made aligners. It’s a popular choice for adults and teens alike, offering effective teeth-straightening without interfering with your normal day-to-day life.
Invisalign Aligners
5. Dental Implants
Dental implants are considered the gold standard for tooth replacement. An implant is a small titanium screw that's surgically placed into the jawbone, providing a stable base for attaching a dental crown. It’s perfect for those missing a single tooth or multiple teeth, providing a natural and secure solution.
6. Gum Contouring
If your gums are uneven or excessively visible when you smile, gum contouring is an ideal solution. This cosmetic dentistry procedure utilizes a dental laser to gently reshape the gums, revealing a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile.
7. Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a versatile cosmetic dentistry option, addressing issues like cracked, chipped, or worn teeth. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that’s placed over the damaged tooth, restoring its shape, size, and function while protecting it from further damage.
8. Smile Makeover
Sometimes, a combination of cosmetic dental procedures is needed to achieve the perfect smile. A smile makeover at Aesthetic and Implant Dental Arts involves a customized treatment plan that addresses multiple issues to create dramatic improvements in the appearance of your teeth and gums.
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5 Things You Didn’t Know About Your Teeth
Get ready to flash your pearly whites because we're about to delve into the fascinating world of teeth whitening! A dazzling smile has the power to light up a room and boost your confidence levels, but there's so much more to achieving those Hollywood-worthy chompers than meets the eye. From debunking common myths to exploring different methods, this blog post will take you on a journey through seven things you didn't know about teeth whitening. So sit back, relax, and prepare yourself for some jaw-dropping facts that will leave you grinning from ear to ear!
7 Things You Didn’t Know About Teeth Whitening
When it comes to teeth whitening, there's a lot more to it than meets the eye. Here are 7 things you probably didn't know about this popular cosmetic dental procedure:
1. DIY whitening has its challenges
DIY teeth whitening has gained popularity in recent years, with numerous at-home remedies flooding social media platforms. While it may seem convenient and cost-effective, DIY whitening treatments can come with their fair share of challenges.
One major challenge is the lack of professional guidance. Without proper knowledge and expertise, it's easy to misuse or overuse whitening products, leading to potential harm to your teeth and gums. Additionally, not all DIY methods are effective for everyone. Different types of stains or discoloration require different treatment approaches.
2. Knowing if it’s a stain or discoloration
When it comes to teeth whitening, one of the key factors to consider is whether your dental issue is a stain or discoloration. While they may seem similar, understanding the difference can help you choose the right treatment.
3. There are many social media teeth whitening myths
Social media has become a hub for sharing information, but when it comes to teeth whitening, not everything you see is true. There are numerous myths circulating on social platforms that can leave you confused and misinformed about the best ways to achieve a brighter smile.
One common myth is that brushing your teeth with baking soda will instantly whiten them. While baking soda does have some mild whitening properties, it's important to remember that excessive use can actually damage your tooth enamel. It's always best to consult with a dental professional before trying any DIY methods.
4. Not everyone can use whitening treatments
Teeth whitening has become increasingly popular in recent years, with people all over the world seeking that bright, white smile. However, it is important to note that not everyone is a candidate for teeth whitening treatments.
One of the main factors to consider is the overall health of your teeth and gums. If you have any underlying oral health issues such as gum disease or tooth decay, it's best to address these problems before proceeding with any whitening procedures. Whitening products may aggravate existing dental issues and cause more harm than good.
5. Controlled concentrations of bleaching agents
Controlled concentrations of bleaching agents play a crucial role in teeth whitening treatments. When it comes to achieving that bright, white smile, it's important to use the right amount of bleaching agents. Too much can irritate your gums and damage your tooth enamel, while too little may not produce the desired results.
Professional dentists are trained to determine the appropriate concentration of bleaching agents based on factors like the severity of discoloration and individual sensitivity. They have access to professional-grade products that contain higher concentrations of active ingredients compared to over-the-counter options.
6. Beware of “natural” teeth whitening tips
When it comes to teeth whitening, there is no shortage of "natural" remedies and DIY tricks that claim to brighten your smile without the use of chemicals or professional treatments. While these natural options may seem tempting and harmless, it's important to approach them with caution.
One popular natural method involves using baking soda as a toothpaste or scrub. While baking soda can help remove surface stains, using it too frequently or in high concentrations can actually damage your enamel over time. It's best to consult with your dentist before incorporating baking soda into your oral care routine.
7. Professional at-home vs. over-the-counter whitening
Professional at-home whitening treatments are becoming increasingly popular among individuals who want to achieve whiter teeth without visiting a dentist. These professional-grade kits provide convenience and effectiveness, making them a tempting option for many. However, it's important to understand the key differences between professional at-home whitening and over-the-counter (OTC) options.
One significant advantage of professional at-home whitening is that it offers a higher concentration of bleaching agents compared to OTC products. This means you can achieve more noticeable results in a shorter amount of time. Additionally, professional kits often come with customized trays that fit your teeth perfectly, ensuring maximum contact between the gel and your teeth.
The Benefits of Teeth Whitening
Having a bright, white smile can do wonders for your self-esteem and overall confidence. Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that offers numerous benefits beyond just improving the appearance of your teeth.
Teeth whitening can enhance your professional and social interactions. A radiant smile can leave a lasting impression on others, making you appear more approachable and friendly. It may even give you that extra boost of confidence during job interviews or important presentations.
The Different Methods of Teeth Whitening
When it comes to teeth whitening, there are several different methods available. Each method has its own advantages and considerations, so it's important to understand what options are out there before deciding which one is right for you.
One common method is in-office bleaching, which involves a dental professional applying a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide gel directly to your teeth. This treatment typically takes about an hour and can provide immediate results.
Another option is at-home bleaching trays, which involve using custom-made trays that fit snugly over your teeth. These trays are filled with a lower concentration of bleaching gel and worn for a specified period each day or night.
Common Misconceptions about Teeth Whitening
When it comes to teeth whitening, there are plenty of misconceptions floating around that can lead people astray. Let's debunk some of the most common myths and set the record straight.
Many people believe that teeth whitening treatments will damage their enamel. This is simply not true if done correctly. Professional dentists use safe and controlled concentrations of bleaching agents to ensure the safety of your teeth and gums.
The Importance of Proper Oral Hygiene in Maintaining White Teeth
Proper oral hygiene plays a crucial role in maintaining white teeth. It's not just about the aesthetics; it's also about the overall health of your mouth. Here are a few key reasons why taking care of your oral hygiene is important for keeping those pearly whites shining.
First and foremost, regular brushing and flossing help remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on the surface of your teeth, harboring bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and discoloration over time. By diligently following a daily oral care routine, you can minimize the chances of stains settling in.
Moreover, practicing good oral hygiene habits helps to prevent gum disease. Gum disease can cause gum inflammation and eventually lead to receding gums or even tooth loss if left untreated. When gums become infected or inflamed, they can appear red or swollen, making them more prone to bleeding during brushing or flossing - which may contribute to staining.
Another benefit of proper oral hygiene is fresh breath! Bad breath often stems from poor dental care practices as it allows food particles and bacteria to linger in the mouth. Regularly cleaning your teeth removes these odor-causing culprits and keeps your breath smelling fresh.
Remember that maintaining white teeth goes beyond just cosmetic purposes; it contributes significantly to overall oral health too! So make sure you prioritize proper oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, using mouthwash when needed, eating a balanced diet low in sugar, and scheduling regular visits with your dentist for check-ups and cleanings.
Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can give you a brighter, more confident smile. From DIY treatments to professional at-home options, there are several things to consider before embarking on your teeth whitening journey.
DIY whitening may seem convenient and cost-effective, but it comes with its challenges. It's important to understand whether your teeth have stains or discoloration before choosing the appropriate treatment. Additionally, be wary of social media myths and "natural" remedies that promise miraculous results.
While many people can benefit from teeth whitening treatments, not everyone is an ideal candidate. If you have sensitive teeth or certain dental conditions, it's best to consult with a dentist before starting any whitening regimen.
When using bleaching agents for teeth whitening, controlled concentrations are crucial for safety and effectiveness. Over-the-counter products may deliver slower results compared to professional-grade treatments prescribed by dentists.
It's also essential to debunk common misconceptions about teeth whitening. Contrary to popular belief, bleaching does not damage tooth enamel when used properly under professional guidance.
Proper oral hygiene plays a vital role in maintaining white teeth even after undergoing a whitening treatment. Regular brushing and flossing along with routine dental visits will help keep your smile radiant for longer periods of time.
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USA Dream Vacations: Top Tour Packages for Indians
Are you an avid traveler from India dreaming of exploring the diverse and captivating landscapes of the United States? The good news is that your dream vacation is closer than you think! Thanks to a wide range of USA tour package from India, you can now embark on an unforgettable journey across this magnificent country. From the dazzling cityscapes to the stunning natural wonders, the USA offers a myriad of experiences that will leave you in awe. In this blog post, we'll take you on a virtual tour through some of the top USA tour packages for Indians, ensuring that you make the most of your American adventure.
New York City - The City That Never Sleeps
When it comes to the USA tour package from India, New York City is often at the top of the list. It's the city that never sleeps, and it's waiting to embrace you with its iconic landmarks and vibrant culture. Your tour package will likely include visits to famous sites such as Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. Explore the diverse neighborhoods, indulge in the culinary delights, and shop till you drop on Fifth Avenue. With the perfect blend of history, art, and entertainment, New York City promises an unforgettable experience.
Las Vegas - Where Dreams Turn into Reality
Las Vegas, also known as the "Entertainment Capital of the World," is another must-visit destination in your USA tour package from India. This city is synonymous with glitz, glamour, and round-the-clock excitement. From the dazzling lights of the Las Vegas Strip to the world-famous casinos, there's no shortage of entertainment options. Catch a live show, enjoy a gourmet dining experience, or even try your luck at the slot machines. Las Vegas is a city where dreams can turn into reality, making it a highlight of your American adventure.
Los Angeles - The Land of Celebrities and Sunshine
Los Angeles, often referred to as the "City of Angels," offers a unique blend of celebrity culture, stunning beaches, and a pleasant year-round climate. Your USA tour package from India may include a visit to Hollywood, where you can stroll along the Walk of Fame and visit iconic film studios. Don't forget to take a trip to the breathtaking Pacific Coast and explore the beautiful beaches of Santa Monica and Venice. With its vibrant atmosphere and endless opportunities for adventure, Los Angeles is a city that truly shines.
San Francisco - A City of Contrasts
San Francisco, located in the heart of California, is a city of contrasts that should not be missed in your USA tour package from India. The iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the historic cable cars are just a few of the city's attractions. Take a walk through the charming streets of Chinatown or visit the bustling Fisherman's Wharf. San Francisco's rich cultural diversity and stunning scenery make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking a unique and enriching experience.
Orlando - Where Magic Meets Adventure
Orlando, Florida, is a city where magic meets adventure, and it's an essential stop in your USA tour package from India. Known for its world-famous theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando is a paradise for families and thrill-seekers alike. Step into the enchanting world of Disney, encounter your favorite movie characters, and experience thrilling rides and attractions. Orlando promises an unforgettable and magical experience for all ages.
Miami - A Tropical Paradise
Miami, often referred to as the "Magic City," is a tropical paradise that offers a unique blend of cultures, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches. Your USA tour package from India may include a visit to the famous South Beach, known for its Art Deco architecture and lively atmosphere. Explore the cultural diversity of Little Havana, experience the vibrant Wynwood Walls, and savor the delicious Cuban cuisine. Miami's year-round pleasant climate and pulsating energy make it a destination that's hard to resist.
Washington, D.C. - The Nation's Capital
For history enthusiasts, a visit to the United States is incomplete without exploring the nation's capital, Washington, D.C. Your USA tour package from India may include visits to iconic landmarks such as the White House, the U.S. Capitol, and the Smithsonian museums. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the United States as you walk along the National Mall and pay your respects at the memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Washington, D.C., is a city that reflects the nation's past and its continued commitment to democracy.
Grand Canyon - A Natural Wonder
No USA tour package from India is complete without a visit to the Grand Canyon, one of the most breathtaking natural wonders on Earth. This colossal chasm, carved by the Colorado River, offers awe-inspiring vistas and opportunities for hiking and exploration. Marvel at the various viewpoints, including the South Rim and the North Rim, and witness the ever-changing colors of the canyon. A visit to the Grand Canyon is a humbling experience, allowing you to connect with the raw beauty of nature.
Niagara Falls - The Power of Nature
The USA tour package from India may also include a visit to Niagara Falls, a spectacular natural wonder shared with Canada. Witness the thundering power of the falls as millions of gallons of water cascade over the cliffs. Take a boat tour to get up close and feel the mist on your face or explore the scenic surroundings, such as Niagara-on-the-Lake and the Butterfly Conservatory. Niagara Falls is a testament to the beauty and force of nature, leaving visitors in complete awe.
Yellowstone National Park - Where Nature Reigns Supreme
Yellowstone National Park, located primarily in the state of Wyoming, is a testament to the raw beauty of nature. Your USA tour package from India may include a visit to this iconic park, home to geysers, hot springs, wildlife, and unparalleled wilderness. Witness the eruption of the famous Old Faithful geyser, explore the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring, and keep an eye out for bison, elk, and even grizzly bears. Yellowstone National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
In conclusion, the USA offers a diverse range of experiences and destinations that cater to every traveler's interests. Whether you're seeking the excitement of a bustling metropolis, the charm of historic sites, or the tranquility of natural wonders, there's a USA tour package from India that's perfect for you. So, pack your bags, choose your dream vacation, and get ready to embark on a journey filled with unforgettable memories in the United States. Your American adventure awaits!
Must Read: Immerse Yourself in Korean Culture with Our Trip Packages
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In a Parliament of Magpies... (Part 1)
Seven for a secret,
Not to be told;
Eight for heaven,
Nine for hell,
And ten for the devil's own sell
The Second Coming had come and gone (or perhaps a second ''Another Aversion of the Apocalypses'' being put in the books had been a better way to look at things) but in any case, all was right with the world once again.
Mostly.
The unfortunate thing that came with a huge public resurgence in interest in the All Mighty, tended to also trigger a resurgence in interest in the Adversary, thus a plethora of summoning circles and open portals.
Amature summoning circles and open portals.
Fortunately, the shelf life of said same circles and portals was minimal, and within days of the cessation of hostilities, the circles and portals simply fell into obsolescence.
Mostly.
In other times, the occasional foolish demon who allowed themselves to be trapped by a summons, staffing shortages in Hell, and an uneasy cease-fire with Heaven (who were rumoured to be experiencing staffing upheavals of their own) meant that said circles and portals had to be closed manually. *
To Aziraphale's (and Hell's) surprise, Crowley had volunteered to assist.
It wasn't entirely altruistic, he had told Aziraphale. After all, having Hell (and possibly Heaven) owing one favours, especially given their own position was far from a bad thing.
What he hadn't told Aziraphale was, quite simply, that it sounded fun. Undoubtedly, down the line he would run into a human that was foolish enough to challenge him, and a good 'put the fear of Crowley' to keep his hand in was just what he needed. Aziraphale had insisted he keep a mobile phone on him.
Just in Case.
* While popular literature extolled a hundred ways to trap or compel a demon, such as salt or iron, those were the product of Hell's publicity department. Rumour had it that the demon Crowley had a hand in it, as most demons were functional illiterates, but no one was really keeping track these days.
***
Time and space aren't really a concern for creatures like demons, but now that he was on his 10th 'job' of the day (with at least one 'scare the bugger nearly to death' and a religious conversion - oops!) under his belt, he was nearly done. A fairly well known producer in Hollywood had offered his soul in exchange for the favours of a young ingenue, and Crowley snarled at him before closing off the portal with an excessive amount of shit and sulfur, guaranteeing that the lingering stench would render the office uninhabitable for weeks.
Nope.
On top of it, his mobile had been pinging. He didn't need to look at i to know Aziraphale was getting worried
Shit.
Just the one more then. The one he should have done first. The one that was marked 'Highest Priority' because for some reason, the portal kept popping back open.
Oh Hell no.
He would eradicate the pentagram, place a few fetishes and assets about, and maybe Salt the surrounding area like it was a restaurant owned by Nusret Gökçe, and go home.
'Bam!' this. you pretentious mother fucker.
Right.
In a miraculous moment, he found himself just outside of where the troublesome gateway was situated. Always safer to scout out the lay of the land before entering a situation. Never could be sure whether some enterprising soul had set any kind of trap... say like with Holy Water.
He shivered, then made is way up the steps of what appeared to be a simple, abandoned little house. There were quite a few of them, out here in the sticks of America. Like most of them, the windows had been boarded up, but in this case, weak flickering lights shined through. The door itself leaned haphazardly against the frame, totally removed from rotted hinges.
Right.
With an abundance of caution born of six thousand earth bound years (give or take) and two apocalypses (apocalies?) Crowley looked though the dirty, broken window and saw a human female.
A female child.
Sitting in the middle of the pentagram on the floor, candles lit.
Shit.
Right, He'd just walk in, tell her to leave, utterly annihilate the portal and ten square meters around it, just for good measure and head back to London. Done.
The door fell to the floor with snap of his fingers and a crash, and Crowley marched forward with a certainty. to evict the intruder.
Until he smacked right into an invisible wall, right at the threshold.
What. The. Fuck.
He tried again.
And bounced back again.
Fuck.
''Are you OK?'' a lightly musical voice called from inside. ''That sounded like it hurt!''
'I'm fine!'' Crowley snapped. ''Just happy as a lark. Look, can you do us both a favour, and come on out?''
''Why?'' the voice called back, a little too sweetly. ''I like it here. I think it's going to rain anyway. Why are you still outside?''
Again. What. The. Fuck.
Crowley sighed. His eyes rolled up and his head followed. He didn't have time for this. ''You seem like a bright young thing. You tell me.''
'You're a vampire?''
''What? NO!''
''A fairy then!''
''You are really starting to piss me off...''
''So not an angel...''
His mobile blipped. Another text from Aziraphale.
Shit! Fuck!
Right.
''Look, I don't have time for this... Can you just, you know...''
''Jinn? Bogie? Pixy? Leprechaun?''
''What I am...'' Crowley started, his voice a barely restrained snarl. 'Is getting very, very angry.''
A pause.
''Wait...'' he said, momentarily deflated before conflagrating again. '' A... leprechaun? What in the name of all that's... that's anything makes you think I'm some kind of fucking Wood Sprite??''
Now as he stood less than a foot away from the vexing barrier, he could get a good long look at the human who currently stood between him completing this shit job and going home.
Unbidden, a memory...
I'm Jemimah! I made this pot!
He narrowed his eyes behind his shades. The temptation to simply set fire to the house, sending the interloper screaming into the night screaming before destroying the portal was like a mad itch but...
He was... Curious.
''If I let you in, you won't hurt me, right? I mean...''
''On my word. You can toss me in a bath of Holy Water, .... Ivy...'' Crowley grinned. ''Let's have a chat...''
***
OK... Fuck me this is getting big.... So will pause here...
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Barbie (2023)
this movie was STRANGE, but also really funny. i didnt pay it much mind until the first trailer was revealed and i went "wow, thats a weird idea for a movie!" and then the details of it's production came to light on how it caused a worldwide shortage of pink paint and... ANYTHING involving ryan gosling, which was when i decided "okay i have to see this" and it did not disappoint.
i wont go into too many details of the plot here because it's something you have to see for yourself (also recent movie and i dont wanna spoil it) but i will say you should see this in theaters while you still can, this is one of those movies that's enhanced by having an audience laugh at it together, and sometimes laugh at the really weird jokes only you'll potentially find funny. it was great and im glad it's doing well at the box office. let's just hope it's success means more funny, thought provoking movies like this instead of a toy cinematic universe or some stupid shit like that. oh hollywood, when will you learn...
4/5
NOTE: there were many kids in the theater when i saw this yesterday. like literally a whole group of girls dressed in pink filled up the theater. if you're a parent and somehow reading this, PLEASE don't take your kids to this movie XDD many adult jokes and I'm not even sure if they'd be able to follow the meta as hell plot, which is rife with existentialism and social satire. pay attention to the ratings, people! xP
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Monday, July 23, 2023
U.S. Hunts Chinese Malware That Could Disrupt American Military Operations
(NYT) The Biden administration is hunting for malicious computer code it believes China has hidden deep inside the networks controlling power grids, communications systems and water supplies that feed military bases in the United States and around the world, according to American military, intelligence and national security officials. The discovery of the malware has raised fears that Chinese hackers, probably working for the People’s Liberation Army, have inserted code designed to disrupt U.S. military operations in the event of a conflict, including if Beijing moves against Taiwan in coming years. The malware, one congressional official said, was essentially “a ticking time bomb” that could give China the power to interrupt or slow American military deployments or resupply operations by cutting off power, water and communications to U.S. military bases. But its impact could be far broader, because that same infrastructure often supplies the houses and businesses of ordinary Americans. The first public hints of the malware campaign began to emerge in late May, when Microsoft said it had detected mysterious computer code in telecommunications systems in Guam, the Pacific island with a vast American air base, and elsewhere in the United States. U.S. officials and industry experts say the Chinese effort appears more widespread—in the United States and at American facilities abroad—than they had initially realized. But officials acknowledge that they do not know the full extent of the code’s presence in networks around the world.
Consumer demand for speed and convenience drives labor unrest among workers in Hollywood and at UPS
(AP) Six straight days of 12-hour driving. Single digit paychecks. The complaints come from workers in vastly different industries: UPS delivery drivers and Hollywood actors and writers. But they point to an underlying factor driving a surge of labor unrest: The cost to workers whose jobs have changed drastically as companies scramble to meet customer expectations for speed and convenience in industries transformed by technology. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated those changes, pushing retailers to shift online and intensifying the streaming competition among entertainment companies. Now, from the picket lines, workers are trying to give consumers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to produce a show that can be binged any time or get dog food delivered to their doorstep with a phone swipe. Overworked and underpaid employees is an enduring complaint across industries—from delivery drivers to Starbucks baristas and airline pilots—where surges in consumer demand have collided with persistent labor shortages. Workers are pushing back against forced overtime, punishing schedules or company reliance on lower-paid, part-time or contract forces.
Amid record heat wave, Texas grid powers through
(CSM) With an extreme heat wave gripping half the country, this summer has been less one to enjoy than one to endure. Temperatures averaging above 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and in the 90s at night have kept Americans in the Southern and Western United States sheltering inside whenever they can, as the country’s aging electrical grid works overtime to support air conditioners fighting Saharan heat. And for Texas, prolonged heat waves in June and then July had the potential for widespread disruption, if not disaster. But in the crucible of a blazing summer, Texas is forging a reputation as a clean energy leader. As each new week seems to bring a new record for electricity demand, the Texas power grid has held firm. Lights have stayed on and air conditioning has kept running, thanks in part to a significant increase in clean energy hooked up to the grid. The state installed more utility-scale wind, solar, and battery storage than any other last year, and accounted for one-third of the entire country’s new capacity. Over the past decade Texas added more wind, solar, and battery storage than any other state, and twice as much as runner-up California. This transformation has occurred despite broad antipathy, and at times hostility, from the state’s mostly Republican lawmakers.
US nurse, child abducted in Haiti, non-profit organization says
(Reuters) A U.S. nurse and her child have been kidnapped in Haiti, a faith-based humanitarian aid organization said on Saturday. “We can confirm that Alix Dorsainvil, our director’s wife, and their child were kidnapped on the morning of Thursday, July 27th from our campus near Port au Prince while serving in our community ministry,” El Roi Haiti said on its website. The statement gave no further information on the age or gender of the child.
Son of Colombian president arrested for alleged money laundering
(Washington Post) Authorities arrested Nicolás Petro, the eldest son of Colombian President Gustavo Petro, Saturday morning on charges of money laundering and illicit enrichment, signaling the start of a legal case that experts say could test the country’s justice system. Nicolás Petro’s former wife, Daysuris Vásquez, was also charged with money laundering and taken into custody, Colombia’s attorney general said in a news release. Their arrests come months after Vásquez, who separated from Nicolás Petro following an alleged affair with one of her former friends, accused Nicolás Petro of using funds donated to his father’s presidential campaign to support a lavish lifestyle, Vásquez told Semana magazine in a March interview. Gustavo Petro was unaware of his son’s actions, according to Vásquez. The arrest of the Colombian president’s son also comes weeks after leaked audio messages implicated the president’s chief of staff and his ambassador to Venezuela in possible campaign finance violations. Gustavo Petro fired both individuals after Colombia’s attorney general launched a probe into the matter.
Russia Strikes Another Grain Terminal, Extending a Campaign Against Ukraine’s Ports
(NYT) Russian forces struck a grain terminal in the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson, Ukrainian officials said on Saturday, extending a bombardment of the country’s infrastructure that has raised alarm about Kyiv’s ability to ship grain to the world. President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has vowed to enhance air defenses around the port and the southern coast, but Kyiv’s resources are stretched thin and it faces difficult choices about where to deploy the limited number of air defense systems that can shoot down Russia’s most sophisticated missiles. Moscow has struck Ukrainian ports near daily since pulling out of a deal last week that allowed Ukraine to ship its grain despite the war. The Institute for the Study of War, a Washington-based think tank, said on Friday that the Russian naval posture in the Black Sea, which includes a warning that ships bound for Ukrainian ports would be potentially seen as carrying military cargo, was most “likely intentionally ambiguous to generate widespread concern about possible detention by the Russian navy or outright strikes on civilian vessels.” “The Kremlin likely aims for this posturing to have a chilling effect on maritime activity so that Russian naval assets do not need to enforce an actual blockade of Ukrainian ports,” the analysts wrote.
China’s Approach to Foreign Policy Gets Largely Negative Reviews in 24-Country Survey
(Pew Research Center) Views of China are broadly negative across 24 countries in a new Pew Research Center survey: A median of 67% of adults express unfavorable views of the country, while 28% have a favorable opinion. Most people also think China does not take into account the interests of other countries in its foreign policy (76%) and a median of 57% say China interferes in the affairs of other nations a great deal or fair amount. Still, attitudes toward China are somewhat rosier in middle-income than high-income countries. Across eight middle-income countries India stands out as the only middle-income country in which a majority has unfavorable views of China. And in three middle-income countries—Kenya, Mexico and Nigeria—a majority even gives China a positive rating.
Power station fire, explosions cut off power in much of Iraq in scorching summer heat, officials say
(AP) Power was cut off in large swaths of southern and central Iraq for much of Saturday during scorching summer heat and observances of the Shiite holy day of Ashoura after a fire broke out at a power station in the southern city of Basra. The fire at the Al-Bkir substation in Basra resulted in the separation of transmission lines linking the southern and central regions, leading to a complete shutdown of the electrical system in the area, Iraq’s Ministry of Electricity said in a statement. It said the fire was accidental. The power outage came as the electrical system faces other challenges, including fuel shortages and surging demands for electricity during a major heat wave. On Saturday, temperatures reached 47 degrees Celsius (116.6 degrees Farenheit).
Israeli Reservists Resign to Protest New Law
(NYT) For 33 years, Eitan Herzel has proudly dovetailed his career in Israel’s vaunted tech industry with reserve duty in an elite commando unit of the Israeli military. Several times a year, for a total of roughly 30 days, Mr. Herzel left his job as a tech engineer to report for duty—initially as a fighter and then to guide the selection and training of new commandos. That life of service came to a sudden end on Tuesday when Mr. Herzel wrote to his commander to resign in protest over the far-right government’s decision to limit judicial power, which he sees as an assault on democracy. “I have an agreement, like every soldier, between me and the country,” said Mr. Herzel, 55. “Israel is a country that is both Jewish and democratic,” he added. “If it becomes only Jewish and not a democracy, then that agreement is broken, and I can’t serve anymore.” More than 10,000 reserve pilots, intelligence officers, commandos, military instructors, army medics and infantrymen had threatened to resign from volunteer duty if the government pressed ahead with the judicial overhaul bill that was approved by Parliament on Monday. It is too soon to tell how many will make good on their promises, like Mr. Herzel, because reservists are called up on a rolling basis. But estimates provided by reservists prominent in the protest movement suggest that at least 1,000 have so far made the wrenching decision to resign.
Coast to Coast, a Corridor of Coups Brings Turmoil in Africa
(NYT) Africa’s coup belt spans the continent: a line of six countries crossing 3,500 miles, from coast to coast, that has become the longest corridor of military rule on Earth. This past week’s military takeover in the West African nation of Niger toppled the final domino in a band across the girth of Africa, from Guinea in the west to Sudan in the east, now controlled by juntas that came to power in a coup—all but one in the past two years. The last leader to fall was Niger’s Mohamed Bazoum, a democratically elected American ally who disappeared on Wednesday when his own guards detained him at the presidential palace in the capital, Niamey. His security chief now claims to be running the country. “We have decided to intervene,” Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani, Niger’s new self-appointed ruler, said in a televised address on Friday. “Africa has suffered a serious setback,” Kenya’s president, William Ruto, said on Friday. For the United States and its allies, the coup raised urgent questions about the fight against Islamist militants in the Sahel, the vast semiarid region where groups linked to Al Qaeda and the Islamic State are gaining ground at an alarming pace, moving from the desert toward the sea. Much of the Sahel overlaps with Africa’s newly formed, coast-to-coast coup belt.
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East or West, Fly Cheap to the Best: How to Score Bargain Flights from NYC to LAX
How to Score Bargain on Cheapest Flights From New York To Los Angeles
Are you dreaming of a trip to the West Coast? Don't let the exorbitant airfare dampen your spirits! Believe it or not, finding the cheapest flights from New York To Los Angeles is not an impossible feat. All you need is a little bit of research and planning. Keep your eyes peeled for flash sales, and consider booking your tickets during the off-season to score the best deals. Another great tip is to be a little flexible with your travel dates as airlines often charge more for weekend flights than weekday ones. So, if you want to enjoy the sunshine and glamor of Tinseltown without breaking the budget, roll up your sleeves and start your search now. Who knows, you might even get lucky with an upgrade to first class!
If you're heading from the Big Apple to Tinseltown and looking to save some cash, start by comparing fares from multiple airlines to find the cheapest flights from New York to Los Angeles that fit your budget. Don't just settle for the first deal you come across – shop around and keep an eye out for any limitations that could affect your travel plans, such as blackout dates or restrictions on baggage allowance. Trust us, you don't want to show up at the airport with three suitcases only to find out you're only allowed one! So take a little extra time to do your research and you'll be jetting off to Hollywood in no time – without breaking the budget.
Also, don't forget to keep an eye out for flash sales and last-minute deals. Airlines often offer discounts on flights that haven't been fully booked yet or are leaving soon. Taking advantage of these deals can help you save big on your New York to Los Angeles trip. One more thing to keep in mind – don't be afraid to try out new airlines! Lesser-known airlines often offer cheaper flights and may surprise you with their exceptional service. With these tips in mind, you're now ready to book the cheapest flights from New York to Los Angeles without breaking the bank. Happy travels!
Exploring the New York And Los Angeles on a Budget
Are you dreaming of a cross-country adventure from the bustling streets of New York City to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood? Don't let a limited budget stop you from living your dream! Cheap lax to nyc flights are just a few clicks away, and with a little planning, you can experience the best of both coasts. Consider flying on weekdays instead of weekends, and be flexible with your travel dates to snag the best deals. Once you arrive in LA, skip the pricey tourist traps and opt for free or low-cost activities like hiking in Griffith Park or strolling through the iconic Santa Monica Pier. In New York, explore the diverse neighborhoods, pack a picnic in Central Park, and catch a free outdoor concert or movie screening. With some creative thinking and these helpful tips, you'll be able to enjoy the trip of a lifetime without breaking the bank.
When it comes to flights between New York and Los Angeles, the budget traveler knows that finding the cheapest deal is key. But fear not, fellow penny pinchers! There are a plethora of ways to score a bargain flight to LAX. First up: do your research! Comparison-shop for different airlines and dates, and keep an eagle eye out for flash sales and last-minute deals. Another pro tip? Sign up for airline rewards programs to earn points and discounts on future flights. By utilizing these strategies, you'll be sure to snag the best possible deal on your flights between New York And Los Angeles. So sit back, relax, and let your wallet breathe easy knowing that your budget-friendly adventure is underway.
Thereafter, it's time to embrace city life! From the bright lights of Broadway to the golden beaches of Santa Monica, there's no shortage of things to see and do in these two incredible urban hubs. But don't let your budget hold you back from exploring everything they have to offer! Instead, consider using public transportation or renting a bike or car share to get around - not only will you save money, but you'll also be able to see the city from a different perspective. So go forth, intrepid traveler, and take on the challenge of finding the cheapest flights from New York to Los Angeles. With a little bit of research and some savvy travel tips, you'll be living your best life in no time!
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks. No need to spend an arm and a leg for flights from New York To Los Angeles. With our handy tips and tricks, you can save big on your next adventure to the West Coast or East Coast (or both, we won't judge). Remember to keep an eye out for sales, use those loyalty miles, and be flexible with your travel dates. And who knows, with all that money you saved on flights, you might even be able to splurge on some In-N-Out Burger or New York-style pizza. Happy travels, savvy flyers!
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Johnson Ranch: New Homes For Sale Bulverde, Tx & North Central San Antonio
Second ground hosts a game room, secondary bedrooms, a Hollywood bathtub and storage closet complete the second flooring. Eye-catching two story home that includes a connoisseur kitchen with upgraded cupboards, built-in chrome steel home equipment, and a central island with pendant lights open to the household room. The upstairs master bedroom new home builders san antonio includes a non-public bathtub with a backyard tub, separate shower, double vanities and a walk-in closet. Spacious family room consists of three large windows that look out onto the backyard. Downstairs flex space can be utilized as a house workplace or a front room.
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The Hippest Event Space in Los Angeles
With Los Angeles considered the world's entertainment capital, there are endless parties made up of the who's-who of Hollywood. So planning a party of your own here can be daunting. Step one is, of course, picking a location. But there is certainly no shortage of even spaces in LA, is there? Trendy upscale restaurants of Santa Monica; open-air, beachfront lofts in Venice; the Playboy Mansion in Beverly Hills; or rooftop pools in West Hollywood!
In fact, with so many choices, it can actually make planning parties even more difficult than they need to be. Trying to decide between all of these event spaces can make even the most experienced party planners want to head for "Hollywood Hills!"
But don't worry, your search is officially over! No matter what type of party you're throwing, ROW DTLA has some of the most versatile, trendy, and stylish event venues in all of Southern California.
What is ROW DTLA?
This massive mixed-use district in Downtown Los Angeles originally started its life as the terminus for the Southern Pacific Railroad. By 1914, the space had been transformed into a massive produce market that has since been operating in some form or another for over 100 years.
Today, it's home to a smorgasbord of Downtown LA restaurants, shops, bars, offices, and of course, event spaces. All the individual eclectic parts that makeup ROW truly encompass the creativity of the Arts District of LA.
At ROW, you'll find everything from clothing stores in Downtown, hotels, speakeasy sneaker shops, Instagram sandwiches, parking lot rooftop gardens, and much more. The campus spreads across 30 acres, and visitors often are in total awe of the sheer size of the place. You can find everything you need at ROW, including all the basics you need to throw a good party, like plenty of parties and clean restrooms.
Best Event Spaces in Los Angeles
On top of all of that, ROW DTLA offers over 300K square feet of event spaces in Los Angeles that would be perfect for your next event, no matter how big or small.
If you're in charge of planning a private dining party or pop-up art gallery, ROW has a great space for intimate gatherings. When planning smaller private parties, the perfect place to set up is one of the rooftops. Party planners can help you set up a one-of-a-kind event with the LA skyline as the background. The open spaces can be decorated for any type of theme, making the customization of your small event a breeze.
Baby showers, birthday parties, dinner parties - you name it, and someone has thrown it at this trendy spot in Downtown LA. The rooftop is especially perfect for natural light dinner parties. Can you imagine having your birthday party at the same venue as the Billie Eilish experience?!
Another type of event that you can hold in the ROW's event venues is larger private events like conferences, weddings, product launches, brand activations, or corporate meetings. The North and South lots are the perfect party venues for large-scale parties like these.
As a wedding venue, there's room for a lavish ceremony, a banquet hall for the reception, a creative spaces for a bridal photo shoot. With plenty of nearby luxury hotels, brides and their grooms can sneak off to the honeymoon suite whenever they're ready.
Across the street from ROW Downtown LA, there's the 8th Street Produce Stalls which often hold art exhibitions and other creative experiences. It's no surprise considering the proximity of the iconic destination to the Los Angeles Arts District. It's also quite close to Hollywood, so it makes sense that the entire ROW venue is used to film movies and series and hold photo shoots.
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