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wazafam · 3 years

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Across their respective runs, there was a surprising amount of overlap between Brooklyn 99 and The Good Place — here's a breakdown of the actors that appeared on both shows. Dan Goor and Michael Schur created Brooklyn 99, a police procedural comedy series. Premiering in 2013, it ultimately ran for eight critically acclaimed seasons via Fox and then NBC, winning countless awards along the way. Set in the titular New York City precinct, the series primarily followed the adventures (and mishaps) of Jake Peralta (Andy Samberg), Rosa Diaz (Stephanie Beatriz), Terry Jeffords (Terry Crews), Amy Santiago (Melissa Fumero), Charles Boyle (Joe Lo Truglio), Gina Linetti (Chelsea Peretti), and Captain Raymond Holt (Andre Braugher).

Conversely, also created by Schur, The Good Place followed Team Cockroach - a.k.a Eleanor Shellstrop (Kristen Bell), Chidi Anagonye (William Jackson Harper), Tahani Al-Jamil (Jameela Jamil), and Jason Mendoza (Manny Jacinto). Alongside the all-knowing Janet (D'Arcy Carden) and the reformed demon, Michael (Ted Danson), their misadventures took them through the various realms of the afterlife. In the process, they explored numerous philosophical ideas and what it truly meant to be a good and moral person. The equal parts hilarious and emotional series ultimately ran for four seasons, concluding in early 2020.

Related: Why Andy Samberg Almost Passed On Brooklyn Nine-Nine

Given Schur's involvement with both shows, it's perhaps less surprising that they shared significant overlap. The themes were measuredly different and the core cast remained disparate. Still, many guest stars crossed streams to appear on both shows. Those appearances ranged from recurring, fan-favorite characters to subtle one-off appearances that might have flown over the heads of even the shrewdest viewer. Whatever the case, here's a breakdown of all 29 actors that starred in both Brooklyn 99 and The Good Place across the show's multiple respective seasons.

Mantzoukas debuted as the titular wildcard detective in Brooklyn 99 season 3, episode 17, "Adrian Pimento". Fresh out of an undercover assignment, his struggle to reconnect with mainstream society was hilariously unfurled through several episodes across multiple seasons. Despite his relationship with Rosa coming to an end, he remained a loyal (if mercurial) friend to the officers of the 99. Over on The Good Place, he played a malfunctioning android named Derek. Built by Janet in order to get over Jason, he debuted in The Good Place season 2, episode 7, "Janet and Michael." Though Derek and Janet's romance was equally short-lived, he again recurred throughout — with Derek achieving a God-like final form by the show's end.

The Emmy-winning Saturday Night Live alum first appeared in The Good Place season 2, episode 11, "The Burrito." As the afterlife's all-powerful Judge, she recurred throughout the series as equal parts friend and foil — depending on the influence of Timothy Olyphant. On Brooklyn 99, Rudolph guest-starred in the two-part episode that opened season 4. She played Karen Haas, the U.S. Marshal in charge of Jake and Holt's stint in witness protection. Though a stickler for ensuring that every facet of their cover stories had been memorized, she often blurred the lines between personal and professional. That was most hilariously characterized by using her "pop quizzes" to get advice on her marriage and affair with a younger man named Marcos.

As the husband of Captain Raymond Holt, Jackson's Kevin Cozner has been a mainstay since he debuted in Brooklyn 99 season 1, episode 16, "The Party." Though stoic to the point of being cold, he still stood as a far cry to the more overtly villainous Shawn. Jackson first appeared as Shawn in The Good Place season 1, episode 11, "What's My Motivation." Initially posing as The Judge, he was soon revealed to be the head of The Bad Place. Much like how Kevin warmed to Jake Peralta and the rest of the 99, Shawn's demonic ways eventually softened — with him ultimately aiding the heroes in the creation of a new afterlife system.

Related: Brooklyn 99: Why Holt & Kevin Never Kiss (Despite Being Married)

Cordero debuted as Jason's trusted right-hand man in The Good Place season 1, episode 4, "Jason Mendoza." As Steven "Pillboi" Peleaz, he recurred throughout the rest of the show's run — right up until the series finale, having made it to the titular realm in his own right. The actor has actually emerged as one of the most prolific of Schur's collective shows. In terms of the adventures of the 99, Cordero appeared in Brooklyn 99 season 4, episode 22, "Crime and Punishment." As a hacker nicknamed Pandemic, he attempted to aid Terry and Boyle in exonerating Jake and Rosa when they were framed for a series of bank robberies.

The veteran comedic actor first appeared in Brooklyn 99 season 5, episode 10, "Game Night." There he played Devin Cathertaur, a division leader with the Cyber Crimes unit. After affecting the precinct's internet, he repeatedly toyed with the detectives. He's ultimately put in his place by a briefly returning Gina Linetti. He would later debut as Chuck in The Good Place season 3, episode 10, "The Book of Dougs." As a member of the inept committee for the unsurprisingly disappointing Good Place, he helped to manipulate Michael into taking over the running of it.

Daly guest-starred as Jeffrey Bouché in Brooklyn 99 season 4, episode 17, "Cop Con." At the titular convention, the character was introduced as a rival to Captain Holt. Despite seeming initially kind-hearted, it's later revealed to be a facade that hid a devious sabotaging streak. Daly later appeared as Dave Katterttrune in The Good Place season 3, episode 6, "A Fractured Inheritance." Coincidentally, the episode also centered on whether or not certain characters were generally good or merely posing as such. Unlike Bouché, however, Katterttrune was every bit the warm and good-natured family man that he initially seemed.

Offerman guest-starred in The Good Place season 3, episode 8, "Ava." There, he played Captain Holt's ex-boyfriend, Frederick — with whom remained lingering animosity regarding an antique decoy duck. Regardless, he ultimately helped in the birth of Terry and Sharon Jefford's third daughter: Ava. Offerman later appeared in The Good Place season 4, episode 13, "Whenever You're Ready." He was glimpsed mentoring Tahani in woodwork as she sought to craft the perfect chair and complete a truly epic to-do list. Though fans speculated that he may have been playing Ron Swanson, a character from Parks & Recreation, also created by Michael Schur. Offerman was credited as playing a version of himself.

Related: The Good Place: Why Mindy St. Claire Ended Up In The Medium Place

As the sister of Doug Judy (Craig Robinson), Byer debuted as Trudy Judy in Brooklyn 99 season 6, episode 5, "The Tale of Two Bandits." Initially believed to be a straitlaced nursing student, it's ultimately revealed that she followed in her brother's past criminal footsteps. As well as indulging in internet scamming and con artistry, Trudy had taken up Doug's mantle as the Pontiac Bandit. She later reprised the role in subsequent episodes. As well as that, she was reutilized by Schur in The Good Place season 3, episode 10, "The Book of Dougs." There she played Gwendolyn, a cheery and naive employee of The Good Place Correspondence Center.

Jama Williamson: The actress played the demon Val on multiple episodes of The Good Place and Teddy's girlfriend, Rachel, in Brooklyn 99 season 4, episode 13, "The Audit."

Joe Mande: As well as writing and producing on the show, Mande recurred on The Good Place as Todd Hemple. On Brooklyn 99, he appeared twice as Amy's informant, Isaac.

Anna Khaja: Khaja played Tahani's mother, Manisha Al-Jamil, on The Good Place. She also played Dr. Theresa Moore on Brooklyn 99 season 6, episode 11, "The Therapist."

Amy Okuda: Okuda starred as The Bad Place torturer, Gayle (a.k.a Jessica) on The Good Place. She also appeared twice as Terry's ex-girlfriend, Chiaki, on Brooklyn 99.

Seth Morris: The actor played Eleanor's former boss, Wallace, on The Good Place. He also starred as Agent Piln on Brooklyn 99 season 2, episode 15, "Windbreaker City"

Fran Gillespie: Gillespie played the demon Megan in two episodes of The Good Place. Meanwhile, she played Sheena in Brooklyn 99 season 6, episode 11, "The Therapist."

Jamie Denbo: Denbo played Chef Patricia on The Good Place season 1, episode 4, "Jason Mendoza" and Hillary on Brooklyn 99 season 1, episode 11, "Christmas."

Mary Holland: She played Paula in The Good Place season 1, episode 6, "What We Owe To Each Other" and Tricia in Brooklyn 99 season 4, episode 16, "Moo Moo."

Carl Tart: Tart starred as Steve in The Good Place season 4, episode 11, "Mondays, Am I Right?" and Max Prescott in Brooklyn 99 season 6, episode 6, "Crime Scene."

Todd Aaron Brotze: He played librarian and amateur pornographer Scott Fupple in The Good Place season 3, episode 7, "The Worst Possible Use of Free Will" and cuckolded fantasy novelist Miles Moorgil in Brooklyn 99 season 5, episode 8 "Return to Skyfire."

Oliver Muirhead: The actor played Professor Radja on The Good Place season 4, episode 9, "The Answer" and Kevin Cozner's Holt-disapproving boss, Dean Wesley Allister, in Brooklyn 99 season 6, episode 13, "The Bimbo."

Carol Herman: Herman played Eleanor-4 in The Good Place season 3, episode 9, "Janet(s)" and Eunice in Brooklyn 99 season 5, episode 21, "White Whale."

Phil Augusta Jackson: He played Kellen in The Good Place season 3, episode 10, "The Book of Dougs." As well as writing multiple episodes, Jackson also played the dual roles of Trent and Jeremy in Brooklyn 99 seasons 3 and 4, respectively.

A.J. Hudson: The child actor played Young Chidi in The Good Place season 1, episode 10, "Chidi's Choice" and Dylan in Brooklyn 99 season 4, episode 18, "Chasing Amy."

Will McLaughlin: He amusingly played Officer Prawnmandler in The Good Place season 1, episode 11, "What's My Motivation" and clashed with Jake and Charles as Big Santa in the identically designated Brooklyn 99 season 1, episode 11, "Christmas."

Dave King: As well as writing an earlier episode, King played Phil in The Good Place season 4, episode 11, "Mondays, Am I Right?" and starred as Holt's ironic PR supervisor, Bob, in Brooklyn 99 season 3, episode 4, "The Oolong Slayer."

Abigail Marlowe: She played Margaret in The Good Place season 1, episode 10, "Chidi's Choice" and Daniella Andrade in Brooklyn 99 season 4, episode 19, "Your Honor."

Moshe Kasher: He played Colby in The Good Place season 3, episode 1, "Everything is Bonzer!" and Duncan Traub in Brooklyn 99 season 2, episode 2, "Chocolate Milk."

Robert Paul Taylor: Taylor starred in The Good Place season 4, episode 11, "Mondays, Am I Right?" and Brooklyn 99, season 1, episode 10, "Thanksgiving."

Max Silvestri: The Big Mouth writer and producer played Dwayne DeRock in The Good Place season 1, episode 9, "Someone Like Me As A Member" and Patrick on Brooklyn 99 season 3, episode 20, "Paranoia."

Ryan de Quintal: Quintal played Damon in The Good Place season 3, episode 4, "Jeremy Bearimy" and Ned in Brooklyn 99, season 7, episode 3, "Pimemento".

The connections between what's come to be known as the Schurniverse grows exponentially with the inclusion of The Office and Parks & Recreation. As things were left, however, it proved an impressive collection of recycled actors. Given the talent demonstrated by each, it's more than understandable why such a decision was made. With Schur sure to produce plenty more offerings in the future, it'll be interesting to see how the overlaps and connections expand. In the meantime, the surprising amount already offered by The Good Place and Brooklyn 99 will no doubt give fans something else to look out for on their next rewatch.

More: Every Parks & Rec Actor In The Good Place

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justforbooks · 4 years

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The Best Spy Novels to Read While Stuck at Home

Forty, page-turning spy novels, to Keep you on the edge of your seat. Marked by an exhilarating pace, plenty of dramatic twists, and richly drawn complex protagonists, spy novels are about as riveting as it gets in the library. And while all the excitement of double agents and espionage keeps you at the edge of your seat, these books also offer insight into fascinating and troubling historical periods.

In the name of thrilling reading, no matter what time of year and to wrestle with larger philosophical questions of betrayal, human connection, and the legacy of international conflict, I rounded up 40 of the best spy novels around, to read while stuck at home. Written by former CIA and other intelligence agents and some of the most prolific literary minds of all time, get to know the best spy novels below.

Here are my picks for the best spy novels you have to read while stuck at home.

Rosalie Knecht, Who Is Vera Kelly?

1962 in New York City's Greenwich Village and Argentina. A radio show host is struggling to make ends meet and fit into the underground gay scene when she gets recruited by the CIA to wiretap a crooked congressman in Argentina, and works her way into a radical group of students planning a coup. Think coming-of-age meets historical fiction with a strong female protagonist.

Jason Matthews, Red Sparrow

Modern-day Russia. Dominika Egorova is forced into becoming a secret agent that uses her sultry beauty to seduce an American CIA officer. When she develops genuine feelings for him, her loyalties begin to shift and the plot thickens.

Gina Apostol, Gun Dealer's Daughter

1980s Marcos-era Philippines and modern-day America. Though this book doesn't follow a linear chronology, it reflects Sol's fragmented memory and trauma. As a young woman limited by the comfort of her wealth, she seeks to overthrow the Marcos regime. Spying on the American generals and Philippine elite from her own fancy dinner table, Sol's loyalties struggle between her family, homeland, and her insurgent student friends. Politically charged, lyrical, and eye-opening, this is a must-read.

Helen MacInnes, Agent in Place

New York, Washington, D.C., and the French Riviera during the Cold War. When a Russian spy who's expertly infiltrated Washington society gets his hands on a top-secret NATO memorandum, a high-profile CIA officer's cover is blown in Moscow. Now, everyone is racing against time to uncover who the Russian spy actually is.

Viet Thanh Nguyen, The Sympathizer

1975 Vietnam and Los Angeles, A half-French, half-Vietnamese double agent relocates to America after the fall of Saigon, and betrayal, both personal and political, ensues. At once a love story and a spy novel about the legacy and evils of colonialism, the Vietnam War, and ensuing refugee experience in the U.S. you won't soon forget The Sympathizer. It's satirical, sharp, suspenseful, and poignant.

Joseph Kanon, Leaving Berlin

Post-WWII Berlin, Germany. Alex Meier is a young German Jew who fled to America at the onset of WWII to escape Nazi persecution. But with the Cold War underway, it's the peak of the McCarthy era, and he's pigeon-holed into working undercover in East Berlin for the CIA. It's the only way he won't be deported. But when he gets there, he finds out that his target is the woman he loved and left behind before the war. It's a thought-provoking and action-packed love story.

Joseph Conrad, The Secret Agent

London, late 1800s. A shop-owner gets wrapped up in an anarchist scheme to bomb the Greenwich Observatory, but the plan goes wrong and throws his life into chaos. It raises philosophical questions and is a literary masterpiece, but that doesn't keep it from being a thrilling, entertaining read.

John Le Carré, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

Post-WWII Britain. Unhappily retired after a failed mission, an aging officer sets out to catch a traitor who has worked their way into the highest ranks of British intelligence. Full of political and social commentary with a fast-paced plot, there's a reason this is such a classic.

Ian McEwan, The Innocent

Berlin, 1955. A young Englishman living in American-occupied Berlin is commissioned to install the tape recorders that that will wiretap Russians in Soviet-occupied East Berlin. He begins spying on the Americans for the Brits while helping the Americans spy on the Russians. But, he fails as a spy, and the plot becomes more complicated when he falls in love with an older German with a violent, possessive ex-husband.

Lauren Wilkinson, American Spy

Burkina Faso. In the FBI, Marie Mitchell sticks out as a young black woman. In American Spy, Marie wades through a sea of a mostly white male intelligence community, and an assignment to Burkina Faso, where she meets Thomas Sankara, revolutionary president of the landlocked, West African country.

John le Carré, The Spy Who Came in From the Cold

Cold War-era Germany. British intelligence agent Alec Leamas should be on his way back to London, but one more job—an undercover mission to topple East German intelligence, leads Leamas back into dangerous territory. In an interview with Electric Literature, author Lauren Wilkinson (author of American Spy) calls this spy novel "terrific."

Susan Hasler, Intelligence

Post-9/11 America, during an election year. Intelligence trails Maddie James, a CIA counterterrorism analyst as she pursues an al-Qaida operation with an eccentric team. Meanwhile, the Administration is more interested in maintaining the message that America is winning the war on terror. According to author Susan Hasler, a former member of the CIA, writing the novel was a way to cope with residual 9/11 period anger.

Valerie Plame, Blowback

Cyprus. Young, blonde CIA operative Vanessa Pierson assumes the identify of a financial adviser in Cyprus on a reconnaissance mission. Her target: An international arms dealer, Bhoot, who is believed to be aiding Iran to bolster its nuclear activities. With an assassin on her trail, Blowback is full of fast-paced action scenes, as well as intimate details that the Washington Post describes "might elude a male writer." Blowback is co-authored by former CIA agent Valerie Plame, and Sarah Lovett.

Stella Rimington, At Risk

Britain. British intelligence taps Liz Carlyle, a scrappy counter terror agent to stop a terrorist attack. And the person of interest is traveling under a British passport, an "invisible." Author Stella Rimington relies on her former life as a high-ranking spy to author At Risk, Rimington's debut novel.

Patricia Wentworth, Hue and Cry

London. Before Mally Lee's wedding in six months, she accepts a position as governess to a shipping magnate's young daughter. Upon entering the Peterson grounds, however, Lee will be accused of being a thief and spy. Mally flees, leaving her fiancé in emotional shambles and private investigators in hot pursuit. What has Mally stumbled into?

Irène Némirovsky, The Courilof Affair

18th century Russia. Léon M, son of Russian revolutionaries, is tasked with assassinating the ruthless Valerian Alexandrovitch Courilof, Russian Minister of Education. Fronting as Courilof's personal physician, Léon M works his way into Courilof's summer house, and as his relationship with Courilof grows, learns things are more complicated than they seem.

Stephenie Meyer, The Chemist

United States. A page-turning tale of an ex-agent on the run from her former employer (a clandestine, unnamed agency). To clear her name, she accepts one more job that will put her in an even more precarious position. But, the job goes south. What now?

Jennifer Chiaverini, The Spymistress

Civil War-era America. Elizabeth Van Lew is a Union loyalist living in the Confederacy, and she will risk it all to help build the Richmond underground, break free inmates from Confederate Libby Prison, and gather military intelligence under the pretense of humanitarian aid. In this historical novel inspired by a true story, Van Lew's contributions during the Civil War comes alive.

John Buchan, The Thirty-Nine Steps

Over a century old, and Buchan’s adventure novel still passes muster. The first of five novels featuring an all-action hero with a stiff upper lip, Richard Hannay, this is unpredictable, exciting fare – and will keep you guessing until the last page.

Graham Greene, The Quiet American

A novel depicting French colonialism being uprooted in Vietnam may not sound like the most thrilling you’ve ever heard, but in the hands of English literary giant Graham Greene, anything is possible. Featuring British journalism, undercover CIA agents, illegitimate marriage and a light smattering of car bombs, there is action balanced with considered philosophy – and the book is all the better for it.

Frederick Forsyth, The Day of the Jackal

Telling the tale of a professional assassin – tasked by a French dissident organisation to kill the President of France – Forsyth’s novel was met with praise when it was first published, and remains so to this day. Of course, the 1973 film adaptation starring the suave Edward Fox did nothing to help with the stories success...

Robert Ludlum, The Bourne Identity

We all know Matt Damon’s award-winning portrayal of Ludlum’s most famous character, but how many of us have read the novels? If not, you’ll be glad to know that these tales of amnesia, backstabbing and action are just as thrilling on the page – and that Eric Van Lustbader has added to the cannon, with an additional 11 Bourne books available to read.

Tom Clancy, The Hunt for Red October

Tom Clancy’s debut novel remains his best. Introducing Jack Ryan, the CIA analyst throw into the field, it one again tackles Soviet themes and the adventures of a group of US Navy officers taking possession of a nuclear submarine. It’s thrilling fare, and Clancy’s talent to bring the appeal of classic espionage into modern-day storytelling is impressive to say the least.

Len Deighton, The IPCRESS File

Len Deighton’s first spy novel, like Tom Clancy’s, is also his best. More famous for the Michael Caine-fronted film spun from its pages, this original novel involves Cold War brainwashing, a United State atomic weapons test and an extended sequence in Lebanon – and makes use of spy novel trope to be employed for years to come: that of the nameless protagonist.

John le Carré, The Tailor of Panama

He is Harry Pendel: Exclusive tailor to Panama’s most powerful men. Informant to British Intelligence. The perfect spy in a country rife with corruption and revolution. What his “handlers” don’t realize is that Harry has a hidden agenda of his own. Deceiving his friends, his wife, and practically himself, he’ll weave a plot so fabulous it exceeds his own vivid imagination. But when events start to spin out of control, Harry is suddenly in over his head—thrown into a lethal maze of politics and espionage, with unthinkable consequences...

Eric Ambler, A Coffin for Dimitrios

A chance encounter with a Turkish colonel leads Charles Latimer, the author of a handful of successful mysteries, into a world of sinister political and criminal maneuvers. At first merely curious to reconstruct the career of the notorious Dimitrios, whose body has been identified in an Istanbul morgue, Latimer soon finds himself caught up in a shadowy web of assassination, espionage, drugs, and treachery that spans the Balkans.

Ken Follett, Eye of the Needle

“His code name was “The Needle.” He was a German aristocrat of extraordinary intelligence—a master spy with a legacy of violence in his blood, and the object of the most desperate manhunt in history... But his fate lay in the hands of a young and vulnerable English woman, whose loyalty, if swayed, would assure his freedom—and win the war for the Nazis...“

Olen Steinhauer, The Tourist

Milo Weaver has tried to leave his old life of secrets and lies behind by giving up his job as a “tourist” for the CIA―an undercover agent with no home, no identity. Now he’s working a desk at the agency’s New York headquarters. But when the arrest of a long-sought-after assassin sets off an investigation into a colleague, exposing new layers of intrigue in his old cases, he has no choice but to go back undercover and find out who’s been behind it all from the very beginning.

Graham Greene, Our Man in Havana

MI6’s man in Havana is Wormold, a former vacuum-cleaner salesman turned reluctant secret agent out of economic necessity. To keep his job, he files bogus reports based on Charles Lamb’s Tales from Shakespeare and dreams up military installations from vacuum-cleaner designs. Then his stories start coming disturbingly true...

Erskine Childers, The Riddle of the Sands

The classic spy novel by Erskine Childers, credited as the first work of modern espionage fiction. Set in pre-World War I Europe, two British subject, Carruthers and Davies, uncover secret German activity suggesting a prelude to war.

Tom Bradby, Secret Service

What if your next national leader was secretly a Russian spy? Kate Henderson is a high-ranking officer of England's MI6—and a recent undercover operation has revealed explosive intel. Russia has infiltrated the upper levels of UK politics by co-opting a senior politician. To make matters worse, there may be a mole moving through the halls of England's Secret Intelligence Service. With an election looming, Kate is in a race to expose the double agents and save those she holds dear. But who can be trusted? Acclaimed British author and journalist Tom Bradby excels at crafting pulse-pounding narratives set against the backdrop of true-life events. In Secret Service, the author delivers a tense and timely spy thriller where the greatest threat comes from within.

James Grady, Condor: The Short Takes

In this novella, the iconic CIA operative Condor is back in a series of new adventures. New York Times-bestselling author James Grady brings back his famous spy but in a surprising setting. Six Days of the Condor was popular during the paranoid era of the 1970s as Condor was a spy in his prime who ruthlessly and heroically deals with a conspiracy within the United States government. In Condor: The Short Takes, Grady presents an aged Condor who finds himself in a modern setting and with 21st century threats. The original framework is present but the stories are far more intimate and less straightforward. Condor finds himself involved in cyber threats and the 9/11 aftermath; perhaps an even bigger scandal than the Cold War. The master of intrigue brings you six stories that are sure to leave you on the edge of your seat; can Condor soar over the obstacles or will he falter and fall? This is perfect for any fans of the hit original series, Condor!

John Lawton, A Little White Death

A social and sexual revolution was had throughout most of the world during the 1960s, and England was no exception. John Lawton's novel implants remnants of this revolution into the third book of his Inspector Troy series. This novel follows Inspector Troy—despite many career set-backs—as he rises to the head of CID at Scotland Yard. However, before the chief detective can celebrate, he finds himself deep into a scandal reminiscent of the Profumo affair. Troy becomes entangled in a web as he attempts to battle illness, police politics, and the Establishment. He must focus on protecting those affected by the aftermath of the scandal and discover who murdered the two key players in the scandal.

Brian Freemantle, Charlie M

Charlie Muffin came into the British secret service in the early 1950s, when the desperate government was in search of more foot soldiers in the impending Cold War. They decided to look into the middle class for the first time and found what they were looking for in Charlie. Even though he is a working-class, state-educated man from Manchester, Charlie has been one of the most effective agents of the secret service. However, times are changing as Cambridge and Oxford graduates are ready to take over again. They have decided it's time to sacrifice Charlie, but he won't go down easy. This exhilarating novel of double-crossing is excellent for fans of le Carre or Deighton!

Patricia Wentworth, Dead or Alive

In this suspenseful tale by British crime author Patricia Wentworth, Meg O'Hara's husband Robin disappears on the day she plans to divorce him. A year after the presumed body of her dead husband is found, someone breaks into her apartment to leave a shocking message. Now Meg is left to uncover if her husband is dead or alive. As more cryptic messages appear, Meg is certain that someone—maybe even her husband—is trying to get to her...but no one takes her seriously. Well, except for Bill Coverdale. For years Bill has been deeply in love with Meg, so he sets out to get to the bottom of things. Together, they find themselves embroiled in blackmail, forgery, and murder all while facing an unstoppable criminal mastermind.

John Altman, A Game of Spies

In preparation of Germany's invasion of France, England needs to gather classified information on Germany...and there's only one highly skilled spy who can get the job done: Agent William Hobbs. During the bleak winter of 1940, Hobbs meets the naive Eva Bernhardt and seduces her into working for the British secret service. Smitten with Agent Hobbs and disenchanted by Hitler, Eva agrees to seek information from the Führer’s inner circle. As Hobbs and Eva plunge into the world of espionage, intrigue, and deception, Eva quickly transforms into a tough and cynical operative, using her feminine guile and manipulative skills to obtain crucial knowledge. A Game of Spies is a thrilling tale with an even more electrifying conclusion as Eva holds her future, and the future of the entire war, in her hands.

John Lawton, Then We Take Berlin

Meet Joe Wilderness, orphaned by World War II - and certain that this fact will allow him to operate outside of society's bounds and rules for the rest of his life. But when he gets recruited into MI6, he discovers a fast-paced life in Berlin that will force him to go to extremes to accomplish his missions. This stylish thriller is a beloved read, best for fans of Eric Ambler.

Helen MacInnes, The Salzburg Connection

MacInnes may be best known for her first novel, Above Suspicion, but in The Salzburg Connection, written over 20 years later, she had become an expert in espionage beyond compare. In this spy vs spy vs lawyer tale, Richard Bryant, British agent, is one of the few who knows about a secret cache of Nazi information. When he’s found dead, an American lawyer gets caught up in the quest to find the information, before it gets in the wrong hands.

Gayle Lynds, Masquerade

Lynds became popular thanks to a collaborative series with Robert Ludlum, Covert-One, but she had been honing her craft long before The Altman Code’s debut. Like Jason Bourne, Liz Sansborough wakes up one morning to discover that she no longer remembers her life as a CIA agent. Luckily, her lover, Gordon, is there to explain what she has forgotten. But can Gordon–or the world–be trusted? There’s an international assassin after Liz, and she’ll need to figure out whom she can trust quickly.

Chris Pavone, The Travelers

A more recent addition, but one worthy of the list, The Travelers by Chris Pavone sees travel writer Will Rhodes is on assignment for Travelers magazine in the wine region of Argentina when a beautiful woman makes him an offer he can’t refuse. Drawn into a tangled web of international intrigue – like so many thriller protagonists before him – this is a standout in a modern world of throwaway poolside paperbacks.

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bellaroles · 4 years

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Top 7 comfort movie, tagged by @notasapleasure

Thanks! I was looking was something fun to do during this quarantine time.

By comfort meaning, able for rewatching as many time as I like without feeling bored or disturbed. OK, I have a few but can anime be called movie as well? Anyway, here’s my list

1. The Court Jester (1955)

I’m a sucker for witty dialogue + musical comedy + medieval theme which are all blended wonderfully in this movie. Danny Kaye was very funny and talented in this one. This always make me laugh like crazy from start to finish, and also the music is catching as well.

2. Star Trek (2009)

This reboot is very enjoyable to watch. Time-travel theme checked, Enemies to friends to...dare I hope? Lovers?! Checked. Gosh...those bantering dialogue plus reference to Sherlock Holmes (albeit a wrong one lol). Teamwork driven plot unlike a certain popular Sci-fi franchise. Every characters shone with personality, my favorite is Bones. And the CG was also pleasant enough in the eyes. What more can I want in a Sci-fi?

3. My fair lady (1954)

Although I don’t like that misogynist ending, I love this musical-romance(lol what?) so very much. Audrey Hepburn was so lovely. The plot and dialogue was enjoyable. The music was divine, there are few musicals I can claim to be able to sing along more than half of their score, and this is one of them. The costume designs, esp. that black & white horse race scene, was so beautiful.

4. You’ve got mail (1998)

Joe Fox had his faults, to this day I still couldn’t overlooked his business strategy of overcoming small local bookstores with his multi-million dollar book mall complex. Despite that, I still swoon a bit, whenever he and Kathleen were together on the screen. This is my go-to romantic fluff movie. The tone was so fuzzy and warm, and that classic enemies to lovers trope helped a lot. I’ve watched its older version “The shop Around the Corner” (1940) but I love this version more. Maybe it’s because it’s Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks’s chemistry.

5. Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms (2018)

This got me by surprised. I didn’t expect much when I first watched it but 5 minutes in I was hooked. This anime was an exquisite tearjerker, set in imaginary middle-earth-like fantasy land. Featuring an elvish-like girl (whose race has a very long life-span) whose home was invaded by the human, and an orphaned human baby boy that she adopted as her son. And picture that this movie span the lifetime of that boy( till the end of his days) I cried like a baby while watching this, haha is that comfortable for me, yes it is! Best mother-son relationship ever depicted on an anime, in my opinion. It make me want to be a better daugther to my mother! The art visual and music is also very beautiful.

6. Porco Rosso (1992)

My most favorite Studio Ghibli’s anime. There’s something so calm and beautiful flying a red aero plane over the deep blue sea, with a gang of enemy planes in hot pursue! I love its anti-war message, the strange pig curses that could be interpreted in many ways, the lovely Gina & Marco maybe-romance, lively Fio and also those adorable air pirates gang. With Joe Hisaishi’s OST playing in the background and Hayashi Miyazaki’s beautiful art, this is my very comfort movie.

7. It’s a wonderful life (1946)

Not just Christmas do I rewatch this, lol. But every time I do, I’ll be reminded once again that there is always something good in a bad situation. One of that good thing is people who are willing to help each other in their time of need. And I should strive more to be one too.

Honorable mentions; these films are not exactly comfort inducing film but for times of a certain mood I want to indulge in

Clue (1985) Sarcastically funny and witty. I recently found out that there are a few alternate endings but haven’t been able to find one yet.

Two Weeks Notice (2002) I love it sometimes because of Hugh grant and Sandra bullock. Also that once selfish billionaire who later learn to care about other people trope is quite endearing

Silver Linings Playbook (2012) Two people with psychiatric disorders reluctantly helped each other to cope with their problems all the while slowly falling in love is so romantic IMHO.

Merry Christmas mr. Lawrence (1983) The Lymond vibe is so strong in David Bowie’s character “Major Jack Calliers” That strong questions about “sacrifice”, “war morality”, and also the underlying homoerotic messages. This one was disturbing to watch but also made a very strong impression in my mind. I wanna rewatch it sometimes when I’m in a thoughtful mood.

The Honey Pot (1967). Rex Harrison and Maggie Smith are so memorable in this one. A crime comedy-drama loosely based on the play Volpone. After watching it, “Dance of the Hours” is never heard the same to me lol.

Megamind (2010) talking about enemies to lovers trope (Again?!) Ok I’m obsessed with this trope lol. I love this movie-cartoon whatever, Megamind is adorable. He and Roxanne are one of my favorite ship. And the redemption arc, gosh , was very well done.

And my latest watch, contender for the above 7 is Emma (2020), such exquisite productions of my favorite Jane Austen’s. It’s like watching a play instead of a movie. Very very well done :))

#comfort movie #list of my favorite movies more like lol #sorry it’s so long a post

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popthiscollective · 4 years

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Episode 239: The Old Guard

Summary:

"Just because we keep living doesn't mean we stop hurting." We are very excited to dive into The Old Guard, a superhero film after our own hearts. Also discussed: baklava, I'll Be Gone in the Dark, and reality TV in the time of COVID-19.

Show notes:

Nadiya Hussain's Chocolate and Orange Blossom Baklava recipe (The Happy Foodie)

The Old Guard Through History | Netflix (YouTube)

The Rules of Time Travel in Outlander, Explained (Town and Country)

Gina Prince-Bythewood and Terilyn Shropshire on Being Historical Firsts for ‘The Old Guard’ (Variety)

Man in the Window (podcast)

Michaela the Destroyer How a young talent from East London went from open-mic nights to making the most sublimely unsettling show of the year (Vulture)

Recommendations: Lisa: I'll Be Gone in the Dark (Documentary) Andrea W.: I May Destroy You (TV series)

Andrea G.: Hanna (TV Series) Music credits:

"Good Times" by Podington Bear From Free Music Archive CC BY 3.0

Theme song "Pyro Flow" by Kevin Macleod

From Incompetch

CC BY 3.0

Intro bed:"OLPC" by Marco Raaphorst

Courtesy of Free Music Archive

CC BY-SA 3.0 NL

Pop This! Links: Pop This! on Tumblr Pop This! on iTunes (please consider reviewing and rating us!) Pop This! on Stitcher (please consider reviewing and rating us!) Pop This! on Google Play Pop This! on TuneIn radio Pop This! on Twitter Pop This! on Instagram

Logo design by Samantha Smith

Pop This! is two women talking about pop culture.

Lisa Christiansen is a broadcaster, journalist and longtime metal head. Andrea Warner is a music critic, author and former horoscopes columnist.

Press play and come hang out with your two new best friends.

Pop This! podcast is produced by Andrea Gin and recorded at the Vancouver Public Library's wonderful Inspiration Lab.

Check out our latest episode!

#podcast popculture feminism

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coldcomputersoul · 3 years

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Marco vs. the Forces of Love Episode 1: Death of a Party

Summary: It’s a hoot and a holler when Star returns to Earth and gets a welcome back party. Meanwhile, Marco and Jackie want to take their relationship to the next level.

Star vs. the Forces of Evil belongs to:

Starcrushed was written by: Dominic Bisignano, Tyler Chen, Evon Freeman, Gina Gress, Aaron Hammersley, John Mathot & Le Tang

[theme song]

ACT I

[The episode starts with Marco watching photos of him and Star on his phone while lying on his bed. Cut to a flashback from the episode “Starcrushed”]

Star: Marco, we need to talk. Just one last time. Marco: Is everything okay? You shouted pretty loud. Everybody's just staring at us. Star: Yeah, I know. But some stuff just came up, and I've only got a little time. Marco: What? Why? We got the entire summer. Star: Marco, I don't know how to tell you this, because you're my best friend... Marco: Star? Star: ...and that makes this super weird because... Marco: What's wrong? Star: ...because I... I... I do have a crush on you.

All: [gasps]

Pony Head: Who called it?! I called it! Boom!

StarFan13: [faints]

Pony Head: I called it.

Star: I didn't want to admit it because I know you don't feel the same way, and I thought if I just pretended the feelings weren't there, they'd go away. But they haven't. I have to leave Earth, probably forever, and I couldn't go without telling you the truth.

Marco: Uh… I, uh…

Star: [crying] Good-bye! Good-bye, everyone! [runs back upstairs]

Marco: Star! [follows Star upstairs] Hey!

[As the camera follows Marco, Janna looks at Jackie, who appears stunned. Star runs inside her room and shuts the door. There's a bright flash of light inside]

Marco: [opens Star’s door] What do you mean—? [gasps]

[Star's bedroom reverts to the state it was in before she moved in]

Marco: Star?

[End of flashback]

Marco Diaz:

[narrating] I remember the first time we met… I was just an ordinary high school student living an ordinary life in an ordinary town and she… well, she was a magical princess from another dimension. [scrolls down to see more pictures] although I was only meant to be her guide on Earth, somehow we became closer as we started to hang out, but... I never thought of her as more than just a friend, I mean [watches a picture of Jackie] she even encouraged me to confess my feelings to my childhood crush, Jackie Lynn Thomas. It was thanks to her that we became a couple [cut to a flashback of him and Jackie kissing], but now that I know Star’s true feelings… I… I don’t know what to think of it. She didn’t even give me any time to react and now... I’m more confused than ever [sigh] the question is: what should I do now? [looks at his dimensional scissors]

[Marco’s phone rings. It’s a call from Jackie]

Marco:

[narrating] Speaking of which... [answering the phone] Hi Jackie.

Jackie Lynn Thomas:

[o.s] Hey Marco, what’s up?

Marco:

Eh. nothing really. Just here alone in my room, trying to catch some Z’s...

Jackie:

[o.s.] Oh, I see... You know, I was thinking: School is about to start next week and... I was wondering if tomorrow we can… you know... go on a date or something. There’s this really cool place downtown where we can go skateboarding, so...

Marco:

[hesitating] Uhm... sure. I can’t wait for it.

Jackie:

[o.s.] Marco, is everything okay? I mean, you don’t have to pretend that you want to go just for me.We can go out any other day if you’re not in the mood...

Marco:

What? No, no, no, you got me wrong, it’s just … [sigh] I’ve been through a lot of things lately and... I don’t wanna drag you down with my problems. but trust me when I say that I really want to go out with you… on a date.

Jackie:

[o.s] Marco, how can you say that? You know that if you have any kind of problem, you should tell me about it so we can get through it together. That’s what couples are for silly.

Marco:

That’s why I want to go out with you tomorrow. Lately I've been feeling under the weather and I need to see you again.

Jackie:

[o.s.] Great, Then I’ll see you at the bus stop on Bakersfield Street. 5 0’ Clock. Don’t forget to bring your helmet.

Marco:

I will. See you there. Bye. [hangs up]

[Marco stares at the ceiling for a moment until he recovers his confidence]

Marco:

[narrating] Okay, enough with this nonsense... sure Star is gone and things will never be the same, but... life goes on and it wouldn’t be fair for Jackie if I keep going like this… [watches a picture of Star on his phone] Besides, I’m sure Star is having fun with her friends back in Mewni, so I might as well do the same. [watches a picture of Jackie and smiles]

[Cut to next day. Jackie waits for Marco at the bus stop. Marco arrives on his Skateboard while Jackie receives him with a kiss on the cheek]

Jackie:

Are you ready to do this?

Marco:

Ready as I’ll ever be.

[They skate together through the sidewalk holding hands]

Jackie:

So, how are you feeling today?

Marco:

Uhm… fine.

Jackie:

Are you sure? Because yesterday...

Marco:

Look, I’m sorry if I got you worried with our conversation the other day. It’s just... I’m still coping with the fact that Star is gone,I mean… you know when you spent so much time with someone and...

Jackie:

...and suddenly that someone rides out of your life before you can even notice it.

Marco:

It’s not that I don’t want to spend time with you. This is a process that I must face alone and I don’t think it’s fair to drag you down in all of this.

Jackie:

Marco: I know it’s not been easy for you, I understand, but you also need to remember that there’s nothing wrong with asking for help. We can get through this... [holds Marco’s hand] together

Marco:

You must think I’ve messed it all up... again.

Jackie:

Well... sort of...

[They share a brief moment of silence and then they start laughing. Once they’re done laughing, they keep skating]

Jackie:

So… just to clarify: Between you and Star...?

Marco:

What? Oh, You mean what happened last summer. Don’t worry about that. To be honest, things haven’t changed that much between Star and I. We’re still friends.

Jackie:

[smiling] I’m so glad to hear that, I wouldn’t like to be a third wheel you know.

Marco:

Jackie, you’re way too far to be a third wheel in my book.

Jackie:

The reason I ask it’s because… [blushing] We’ve been dating for almost a year and… I was wondering if it’s time for us to… you know...

Marco:

I’m not following...

Jackie:

Take our... relationship to the next level.

Marco:

Next… level?

Jackie:

Yeah, I think it’s time for us to meet each other… in a more intimate way.

[Marco blushes as he understands what is she talking about]

Jackie:

But… you know, only if you really wanted it… I’m not trying to put any pressure on you or anything...

Marco:

It’s not that I don’t want it… it’s just... you really caught me by surprise. I mean... I’ve been dreaming about being your boyfriend for so long, and... I always thought that I would be the one to take the initiative, but anyway...

Jackie:

Marco, look out for that...!!!

[Marco crashes with a road sign and falls onto the pavement]

Jackie:

[picking Marco up] Are you okay?

Marco:

Don’t worry, I’m fine. It was just a harmless bump, that’s all.

Jackie:

Uhm Marco, your nose...

[Marco’s nose is bleeding all the way down to his clothes]

Marco:

Aw man... I-I-I’m sure there is nothing to be worried about… just a running nose, that’s all. If I gently touch it, everything will be just… [as soon as he touches it, screams in pain] FIIIIINE!!!

Jackie:

Alright, we should go to your house to put some ice to that running nose.

Marco:

But Jackie, what about our date?

Jackie:

Are you kidding? In your condition you shouldn’t even consider getting on a skateboard. Come on, let’s go... [they walk back to Marco’s home]

[Cut to the Diaz household. Marco and Jackie open the door while taking their helmets out]

Marco:

[sigh] I’m so sorry Jackie. I really wanted to spend this whole day together with you.

Jackie:

Why do you even apologize? It was an accident. Besides, we can go out any other day.

Marco:

I guess you’re right.

Jackie:

Also... we could use this opportunity to… [rolling her eyes] you know...

[Marco’s heart starts beating fast while his nose keeps bleeding]

Jackie:

Marco, please calm down. Wait until we treat your...

[Their conversation gets interrupted by the sound of Marco’s parents laughing at the living room]

Marco:

[sigh] Aaaand, there goes our private time.

Jackie:

Huh, I wonder what they’re laughing about?

[Marco and Jackie walk into the living room and see Star sitting at the couch between Marco’s parents]

Marco:

[gasps] No… Way...

Star Butterfly:

[gasps] Marco!!!

[Star jumps from the couch right into Marco’s arms and hugs him. He hugs her back but they immediately step back due the romantic tension]

Marco:

I’m so glad to see you here. I thought last summer would be the last time we...

Star:

[interrupting him] What happened to your nose?

Marco:

Oh, this? It’s nothing to worry about, I just need to put some ice and...

Star:

Ice? Pfft, come. Let me give you a hand with that... [she raises her wand and menacingly points it right into Marco’s face]

Marco:

[nervous] Star, you don’t have to do this… I can...

Star:

RETURNIO NASUS NORMARINO!!!

[Star blasts Marco’s face with magic. He closes his eyes, but then he realizes that he’s okay and his nose is now fixed]

Marco:

My… nose is fine? Wow, thank you Star.

Star:

Don’t mention it. That’s what friends are for.

Marco:

No, really… that spell was like... brilliantly executed. I’m impressed.

Star:

Well, it’s nothing really. Last summer I worked hard on my spells and you know... I’m always willing to help anyone who needs it. [she notices Jackie] Oh, hey Jackie.

Jackie:

Hey Star, [fistbumps with her] What have you been up to lately?

Marco:

Yeah, I thought you would never come back.

Star:

[patting her head] Oh, of course, I almost forgot to tell you: My parents allowed me to return to Earth for another year. Isn’t it wonderful?

Marco:

Really? That is so AWESOME. We’re gonna have so much fun together.

Mrs. Diaz:

Finally, our prayers have been answered.

Mr. Diaz:

With Star around the house again, we don’t have to worry about our plain and boring suburban lives anymore.

Marco:

Jeez, thank you so much for that comment.

Jackie:

Cool, now we can hang around together like in the old days.

Star:

Sure, I can make another sleepover at Marco’s house like in the last time.

Mrs. Diaz:

[raising an eyebrow] Wait, a sleepover? Marco never told me about...

Marco:

[interrupting her] Oh boy, oh boy... just think how excited everyone at school will get so when they see you again. I... just… can’t... wait.

Star:

Oh, Marco… you’re exaggerating. I’m pretty sure it won’t be a big deal...

[Cut to next day at Echo Creek Academy]

Justin:

HEY EVERYONE!!! STAR IS BACK!!!

[A crowd of students receives Star with praise and enjoyment]

Blake:

So glad to have you here Star.

Chelsea:

Can we hang out? I’ll bake you a pie if you like.

Francis:

Can I help you with your homework?

Sabrina:

Is that a new wand?

Starfan13:

OH MY GOSH OH MY GOSH OH MY GOSH OH MY GOSH!!! [hugs Star] you’re here!!!

Hope:

We’re so glad to have you back.

Becky:

My boyfriend and I made you this friendship bracelet. Do you like it?

Justin:

Star Butterfly rules!!!

Star:

People, people. Relax. We can talk about all the fun things we can do together later when I’LL TAKE YOU ALL NEXT WEEK TO THE BOUNCE DIMENSION!!!

[Everyone cheers. Then Brittney Wong shows up with her usual displeased face]

Brittney Wong:

[speaking sarcastically] Wow, Star Butterfly is back again on Earth. This must be my birthday, I mean... Now that you’re here we can hang out together like “besties” [quote on quote fingers] In fact: Why don’t you go to my house next week for a sleepover so we can paint our toenails and talk about crushes and stuff.

Star:

Really? I would LOVE to hang out with you Brittney. You know, I’ve always got this really weird impression that you never liked me considering all those nicknames you gave me in the past... [gives her a pat on the back] Oh, that is just classic Brittney.

Marco:

Uhm, Star? I think she’s just been sarcastic.

Star:

Oh, don’t be silly Marco. Brittney just likes to show her affection in her own particular way… right “bestie”? [winks at her while giving a pat on the shoulder]

Brittney:

[crossing her arms] Ugh, whatever...

Star:

Now: Who wants A FREE LASER PUPPY?!!!

[She uses her wand to create laser puppies. Everyone cheers in response]

Everyone:

STAR BUTTERFLY!!! STAR BUTTERFLY!!!

[Janna Ordonia approaches Star while everyone keeps chanting]

Janna Ordonia:

Glad to have you back Star. [fistbumps with her] I mean, without you this school is a dump.

Star:

Oh, come on Janna. It’s not THAT bad.

Janna:

I’m serious. When you’re not around this place is more boring than a waiting line for a Smiths concert.

Star:

Well, I guess you’re right. I am kind of awesome.

Brittney:

[cough] bootlicker... [cough]

Star:

Are you okay Brittney? that cough sounds pretty nasty...

Janna:

You can say that again...

Star:

Maybe if I can help you with that… [raises her wand]

Brittney:

[intimidated by the wand] Uhm, I’ve just remembered that I have things to do [walks away]

Janna:

[beat] Anyway: We need to make a party for you next saturday. [she approaches Marco and grabs him by the shoulder] So, what do you say safety boy? you put the house and I’ll take care of the rest.

Marco:

You know Janna: Considering the occasion, I would actually consider your offer without any problem whatsoever...

Janna:

Great, then it’s settled...

Marco:

[interrupting her] However: Next saturday, my parents will make some redecorations in the kitchen, so… you’re gonna have to find somewhere else, like… I don’t know: Your own house?

Janna:

[releasing Marco] Oh Marco, don’t you know it? My parents are very strict when it comes to activities at my house and a party is totally off-limits.

[Cut to Alfonzo and Ferguson overhearing the conversation in the background]

Ferguson:

Hey Alfonzo. Aren’t your parents on a business trip this weekend?

Alfonzo:

Uhm, yeah. They won’t come back ‘til Monday. So?

Ferguson:

So? You can offer your house for the party.

Alfonzo:

Mmmm… I don’t know.

Ferguson:

Come on Fonz. This might be our chance to become popular.

Alfonzo:

Really?

Ferguson:

Yeah, think about it: If we’re the hosts for Star’s Butterfly welcome party, more people at school will want to become our friends as well. Not to mention: We will become more popular with the girls. [Alfonzo has stars in his eyes]

Alfonzo:

Yeah, you’re right. I never thought it that way. I’ll do it.

Ferguson:

[to Janna] Hey Janna. Alfonzo’s house is available.

Janna:

Great. Then it’s settled [grabs Star by the shoulder] Star Butterfly: Prepare for the biggest,coolest and most exciting welcome back party of your lifetime. I guarantee you that THIS will be an event you will remember for a very long time.

ACT II

[Cut to Alfonzo’s Household at night. Marco, Star and Jackie knock at the door and are received by Janna]

Janna:

Well, well, well, look who we have here. Getting half-hour late to your own party? classic Star.

Marco:

We had some problems choosing a dress for the occasion, even though I told her that isn’t that kind of party. Also, I thought we could show up like… whenever.

Janna:

Relax, safety kid, I was just messing with you... [rubs Marco’s chin]

Marco:

[sigh] Get outta town.

Star:

Oh, Marco, I’m so excited. This party is gonna be OFF THE HEEZY!!!

[Cut to the living room.Alfonzo tries to keep the house in order while everyone else is having a good time. The radio is playing “I feel it coming” by the Weeknd]

Alfonzo:

Please, don’t touch that thing. It’s a family relic… [sees someone running around] Hey, don’t run around like that, you’re gonna break… oh, come on [notices a glass on the table without a coaster] How many times I’ve gotta say it: Use the coasters to keep the table clean [sigh] Ferguson!!!

[Cut to Ferguson talking to a girl who looks bored out of her mind]

Ferguson:

Like I said. I’m a close friend of Star, so… If you wanna hang around with us on an awesome adventure you can… [he gets interrupted by Alfonzo]

Alfonzo:

Ferguson: I need to talk to you.

Ferguson:

Eh, will you excuse me for just one second.

[They walk away to talk in private]

Alfonzo:

I can’t take it anymore. Nobody listens to me. I mean, look at my living room [points at some furnitures upside down]

Ferguson:

Relax dude, I’ll help you to clean it out later. In fact, you should come with me so we can try to start a conversation with the cheerleading team over there.

Alfonzo:

What? You mean Brittney is here too?

Ferguson:

[laughing] At a party for Star? Not in a million years. I’m talking about Sabrina, Chantal and the others. Don’t you wanna go and try to get their numbers?

Alfonzo:

Well, I guess I could... give it a try.

Ferguson:

That’s the spirit. Come on.

[Cut to Marco Star, Jackie and Janna talking to each other]

Star:

Wow Janna. I must say you really outdone yourself this time, I mean… look at all these people, I don’t even know half of them.

Marco:

Hate to admit it, but you know how to throw a party.

Janna:

Eh, I have my moments.

Jackie:

I agree with Star, this place is so crowded that I don’t think there’s a single room without people in it.

Janna:

Mmmm… You know, if I were you, I would check upstairs just to be sure [winks at her] Now, if you excuse me: I’ve got a little surprise for Star and I think you need to spend some “quality” time together.

Star:

Really?

Janna:

Come on, follow me. I know you’re gonna like it.

[Star hesitates as she sees Marco and Jackie holding hands]

Star:

Well, sure. I’ll go with you.

Janna:

Great. See you later lovebirds.

Star:

Bye Marco, Bye Jackie. Have fun.

[Star and Janna separate from Marco and Jackie while Marco gets distracted watching Star walking away from them]

Jackie:

Marco? Marco?

Marco:

Oh, yeah, sorry… I was...

Jackie:

Are you okay? You look kinda pale.

Marco:

I’m fine. I’m just feeling dizzy because of the ponch, that’s all.

Jackie:

Well, if that’s the case [she grabs Marco’s hands and gets closer to him] maybe we should follow Janna’s advice to go upstairs so you can… take a break. [winks at him]

[Marco blushes as he feels his heart beating faster while holding Jackie’s hands]

Marco:

[breathing heavily] Let’s do it.

[Cut to Star and Janna passing by while they’re greeted by everyone]

Star:

Okay Janna. Enough with all the mystery. What’s the big idea?

Janna:

If you really wanna know, I suggest looking right over there.

[Star sees Oskar Greason sitting on the couch playing his keyboard, annoying everyone around him]

Star:

Oskar Greason?

Janna:

What’s wrong? I thought you had a crush on him.

Star:

Yeah, I don’t know. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate the gesture, it’s just… I don’t know what I want anymore.

Janna:

If you’re not really sure, I guess we can just... sneak around from the party and go somewhere else.

Star:

Oh, I couldn’t do that to poor Oskar. Besides: you put a lot of effort to bring him here...

Janna:

So, what are you gonna do?

Star:

Well… I guess I can break the ice and give it a try.

Janna:

That’s the spirit. Go and get him girl.

[Cut to Marco and Jackie making out at Alfonzo’s parents bedroom]

Jackie:

Do you have protection?

Marco:

It’s in my wallet. Hold on.

[Marco checks his wallet and pulls out a condom, but he notices something wrong]

Marco:

Oh, shoot.

Jackie:

What 's wrong?

Marco:

Janna took away the money from my wallet… again. That’s why she told us about the empty bedrooms. She knew it all along.

Jackie:

[smiling] Well, at least she was considerate enough to leave the condom, don’t you think?

Marco:

Yeah, I guess.

Jackie:

All in all, we should be thankful for this moment. Don’t you think Marco?

Marco:

Yeah...

Jackie:

Good, because this party is just getting started. [grabs Marco’s hand and put it on her breast as Marco kisses her on the mouth]

Marco:

[narrating] Okay, this is it Marco. The moment you’ve been waiting for your whole life. Jackie Lynn Thomas is about to take you to third base. Oh, her breast is so… soft. Don’t hold back now man, it’s time to take the initiative. [they lay down on the bed]

[Cut to Star and Oskar sitting on the couch while sharing a moment of awkward silence]

Star:

So… Oskar, what’s up?

Oskar Greason:

Nothing... just hanging around… [beat]

Star:

Oh, I see...

[Awkward silence]

Oskar:

Hey, is that a new wand?

Star:

What? This thing? [showing the wand] no, actually it’s the same wand. it changes every time I reach a new level of magical power or something...

Oskar:

Sweet.

Star:

You think so? It’s funny how it all happened, you see, last summer Marco and I were fighting against this lizard monster that wanted to take over Mewni and...

Oskar:

[interrupting her] Lizard monster?. In my other school I was part of a band named King Lizard and I was like… the lead vocalist, but they kicked me out because they said I wasn’t good enough.

Star:

Well, I’m sorry to hear that.

Oskar:

Yeah, but between you and me, I think they were just jealous, I mean… that’s why they turned down all my ideas. Gosh. Idiots.

Star:

Yeah, but you know what they say...

Oskar:

[interrupting her again] and you know who else is an idiot? My mother’s boyfriend.

Star:

And… what does it have to do with…?

Oskar:

[interrupting her yet again] It’s like this… one time, when we were having breakfast... and one of the toasts looked like Abraham Lincoln, you know, with the hat and all that stuff... and I was about to take a picture and put it on the Internet, but he ate before I could do it. Gosh. What an idiot.

Star:

[looking at the floor] That sounds… pretty bad.

Oskar:

Tell me about it… and there was this one time...

[Cut to Marco and Jackie making out half naked in the dark]

Jackie:

[breathing heavily] I love you Marco.

Marco:

[breathing heavily] I love you too Star.

Jackie:

STAR?!!! [turns the lights on]

Marco:

[getting nervous] I’m so sorry Jackie. I… was just...

Jackie:

You were thinking about Star, don’t you?

Marco:

No… I mean… Yes… I mean… [narrating] Oh man, what did I do? Why did I say Star’s name?

Jackie:

Marco… do you… like Star?

[They share an uncomfortable silence. Cut back to Star hearing Oskar stories]

Oskar:

...and was like.. all alone in the woods with a grizzly bear staring right at me. I thought it would be the end, but just when I thought it was all over... A werewolf appeared out of nowhere and fought the grizzly bear.

Star:

[looking bored] Werewolves? Really?

Oskar:

Yeah, and it was a great fight. But I forgot to record it on my cell phone. But it doesn’t matter because werewolves don’t have a reflection anyway.

Star:

Oskar, those are the vampires.

Oskar:

Nah, I’m pretty sure it was a werewolf. It was too hairy to be a vampire.

Star:

No, I mean the reflection. Vampires are the ones that don’t have a reflection.

Oskar:

Oh...

[Awkward silence]

Star:

Uhm… Will you excuse me for a moment? I need to go to the bathroom to… powder my nose... or something like that.

Oskar:

Okay. I’ll be waiting right here.

Star:

Yeah, you do that.

[Star walks away from him as fast as she can]

Oskar:

Yep. She’s crazy for me. No doubt about it.

[Cut to Janna meddling a ponch-drinking competition]

Janna:

Woo-Hoo, that’s right boys. Keep that juice pumping... [Star approaches her from behind]

Star:

[whispering] Uhm, Janna...

Janna:

Hey party girl...

Star:

Can we talk for a minute in private?

Janna:

Uhm, sure... [to everyone] Okay boys, you can take a break now. Star and I have some business to attend… somewhere else.

[Star and Janna find a quiet place to talk]

Janna:

So… how’s things going between you and Oskar?

Star:

Oh Janna, it was awful. It’s like every sentence that comes out from his mouth makes even less sense than the previous one.

Janna:

Really? Is Oskar really that bad?

Star:

Janna, the guy spent 15 MINUTES talking about the different types of moldy bread his mother’s boyfriend likes to eat. You gotta get me out of here before...

Oskar:

[o.s] Star? Where are you? You wanna hear my new song?

Star:

[begging on her knees] Janna please, I just can’t take it anymore.

Janna:

Okay, okay, let me think for a moment. [she takes a few seconds to think about it] I got it. Follow me. [she grabs Star by the hand to the other side of the room]

[Cut to the closet door under the staircase where the cheerleaders are playing “7 minutes in heaven”. Alfonzo and Ferguson come out along with some random girls. They have lipstick marks all over their faces]

Alfonzo & Ferguson:

[with hearts in their eyes] BEST. NIGHT. EVER!!!

Chantal:

Alright, who’s next?

[Star and Janna show up looking for a place to hide]

Chantal:

Hey girls… wanna play 7 minutes in heaven?

Janna:

Later, now I’m trying to find a place where Star can hide from Oskar.

Sabrina:

Oskar Greason?

Star:

Wait a minute… what if you let me use this closet to hide from Oskar?. I won’t interrupt anything, I promise. Please?

Chantal:

I’m sorry Star, but you gotta play the game if you wanna use the closet. Rules are rules.

[Star hears Oskar calling from the distance]

Oskar:

[o.s] Star? Star?

Star:

Deal, now let me hide, and whatever you do: Don’t tell Oskar that I’m here.

Chantal:

Don’t worry. My lips are sealed.

Sabrina:

Yeah, everything will be okay.

[Star hides in the closet before Oskar can find her. Cut to Janna trying to act discrete in front of him]

Oskar:

Hey Janna. Do you know where Star is? I can’t find her anywhere.

Janna:

I don’t know. I haven’t seen Star the whole night. Maybe... she just left.

Oskar:

Oh, that’s pretty bad. I was about to show her my new song. Wanna hear it?

Janna:

Maybe another time. I… I got some things to do… over there... see ya [she runs away from him]

Oskar:

Okay.

[Cut to Marco and Jackie sitting on the bed. Then Marco stands up, put on his red hoodie and runs away while trying to avoid eye contact with Jackie]

Marco:

Sorry...

Jackie:

Marco, wait… we can talk about this...

[As soon as he leaves the room, he quickly goes downstairs while being followed by Jackie]

Marco:

[narrating] Why is she following me? Oh no, she wants to break up with me. [he tries to not burst into tears] But I don’t… I don’t wanna… break up. It was a mistake, or... maybe it wasn’t...

[Marco notices that everyone starts to look at him, which makes him even more nervous]

Marco:

[narrating] Great, now everyone is looking at me. Come on Marco, think… I can’t just run to the door and leave, that would make me look suspicious [he notices the closet under the Staircase] Jackie’s coming. I guess I can lock myself until it’s all over.

[Marco runs towards the closet and uses it to hide from Jackie]

Marco:

[to Chantal] Please don’t tell Jackie that I’m here.

Chantal:

No Marco, wait… that closet is for...

[But just in that moment Jackie arrives asking for Marco]

Jackie:

Hey girls, have you seen Marco?

Chantal:

Eh... nope... I didn’t see him.

Sabrina:

Neither do I...

Jackie:

Well. If you find Marco, can you tell him that I…?

[Oskar shows up and interrupt their conversation]

Oskar:

Excuse me, my keyboard just broke and I need a place to keep it while I find the missing keys. Can I use this closet?

Sabrina:

Oskar, don’t open that…

[Before she can finish the sentence, Oskar opens the door revealing Star kissing Marco]

Sabrina:

...closet.

[Star opens her eyes and realizes that she’s kissing Marco while everyone else is watching them. Then Star runs away with tears coming out of her eyes]

Marco:

Star, wait!!! [She runs away before he could explain the whole situation] I can explain… [he sees everyone else watching him so he locks himself inside the closet]

ACT III

[Cut to Mrs. Diaz speaking on the telephone. Her husband is sitting next to her hearing the conversation]

Mrs. Diaz:

I see… No, no, no it’s fine… she can stay with you, I was just calling to know if she’s okay… Well, if anything happens, you know our number, okay?… again, thank you very much Mrs. Ordonia, it is very kind of you to take care of her… okay, bye [hangs up the phone] Star is at Janna’s house, there’s nothing to worry about...

Mr. Diaz:

Did she tell you what happened?

Mrs. Diaz:

[sigh] She doesn’t know either, but from what I understand, it has something to do with Marco...

Mr. Diaz:

Well, that would explain why he just went straight to his room without saying a single word.

Mrs. Diaz:

Oh, Rafael, I’m so worried...

Mr. Diaz:

Relax, I’ll go and talk to him, you go to the kitchen and prepare yourself some tea, okay?

Mrs. Diaz:

[takes a deep breath] Okay...

[Mr. Díaz goes upstairs to talk with Marco, but he’s sitting on the bed with his hood over his head in complete silence]

Mr. Díaz:

Uhm, Son? Can I talk to you for a minute?

Marco:

Sure...

[He sits next to his son, but Marco turns his head away to avoid showing his face]

Mr. Díaz:

Marco, your mother and I are worried… Is there something you need to tell us right now?

Marco:

I have nothing to say...

Mr. Díaz:

Are you sure? Remember that we’re your parents and we love you no matter what, so you don’t need to be afraid to tell us what happened...

Marco:

I know… It’s just… [sigh] I don’t wanna talk about it, that's all.

Mr. Díaz:

Okay Marco, I understand. Just tell me: Did Star have something to do with…?

[As soon as he mentions Star, Marco starts crying while putting on fetal position]

Mr. Díaz:

Okay, okay, I get it… I’ll leave you alone, but remember: If you need anything and I mean ANYTHING… you can talk to me, are we cool?

Marco:

[still crying] Okay...

[Rafael closes the door. Cut to next week at Echo Creek Academy. Star roams around the hallways with a shameful expression while everyone else just whisper behind her back]

Kid #1:

[whispering] Have you heard what happened last week?

Kid #2:

[whispering] No, what is it?

Kid #1:

[whispering] It seems like Marco cheated on Jackie with Star.

Kid #2:

[whispering] Really?

Kid #3:

[whispering] Yeah, I’ve heard it too... they we’re making out inside a closet at her party at Alfonzo’s house...

Kid #2:

[whispering] Wow, that’s pretty heavy, man...

Kid #1:

[whispering] Yeah, tell me about it...

Kid #2:

[whispering] And what about Jackie? How did she react to all of this?

Kid #3:

[whispering] She seemed pretty calm last time I saw her...

Kid #2:

[whispering] Maybe she's just hiding her pain or something like that...

Kid #3:

[whispering] Well, that’s just sad. Poor Jackie.

Kid #1:

[whispering] Yeah, especially considering how happy they looked before all this happened...

Kid #2:

[whispering] The only thing I know I’m glad that it didn’t happen to me this time...

[Cut to Jackie riding on her skateboard while trying to communicate with Marco through text messages, but without success. She eventually comes across with Star, but she tries to avoid her]

Jackie:

Star? Can I talk with you for a...

[In that moment, Brittney shows up]

Brittney:

Well, well, well, If it isn’t Star Butterface… I’ve just heard what you did last week, and to be honest,I’m not even surprised. You really reached a new low, I mean… Steal someone else’s boyfriend the same week you return to Earth, like... have you no shame whatsoever?

[Star just looks at the floor in embarrassment, then Jackie steps up to defend her]

Jackie:

[to Brittney] Don’t you have anything better to do?

Brittney:

Well excuse me for telling the truth. Because it seems like every time this “magical princess” messes things up no one bats an eye about it. Seriously, [to Star] What makes you think you’re so special? Because you’re a member of the royalty? Is that it? Or is it because you’re rich you think you’re better than everyone around here? What a selfish jerk...

[Star just keeps looking at the floor with tears coming out of her eyes. Meanwhile, everyone at school gathers around to see what’s going on. Then Janna shows up]

Janna:

[to Jackie] What’s going on here?

Brittney:

I’ll tell you what’s going on: Princess Butterface thinks she can get away with stealing Jackie’s boyfriend and now she’s just playing victim.

Janna:

And what do you care about? You didn’t even go to that party.

Brittney:

I don’t need to go to a party to know that Star Butterfly is an awful person who puts herself over everyone else.

Jackie:

And that gives you the right to judge her?

Brittney:

What? Why are you still defending her? After what she did to you?

Jackie:

Look, what happens between Star and I is none of your business.

Janna:

Yeah, why don’t you just go away?

Jackie:

This whole fight is just pointless. Marco is not even here.

Brittney:

Well, he’s lucky to not be here because I have some things to say about him too...

Star:

SHUT UP!!!

[Everyone reacts in shock while Star just stares at Brittney with tears still coming out of her eyes]

Star:

I don’t know what’s your problem with me Brittney, but I’m not gonna let you keep telling me that I’m a cheater, or a coward, or a selfish jerk. And If you know what’s best for you, you better stop right now [threatens Brittney with her wand] because… because...

[But before she can finish, Star summons Cloudy and flies away from the confrontation while bursting into tears]

Jackie:

Star, wait… come back here please [she goes after her using her Skateboard]

Janna:

I hope you’re happy with yourself.

Brittney:

Hey, don’t put the blame on me. I’m not the bad guy here.

Janna:

[sigh] Whatever...

[Janna walks away from Brittney while everyone else just stares at her in disapproval. Cut to Star crying over the roof of some suburban house while watching the sunset. Jackie climbs to the roof to talk with her]

Jackie:

Hey Star...

Star:

[getting nervous] Hi Jackie [fistbumps with her]

Jackie:

That’s a really beautiful sunset, don’t you think?

Star:

Yeah, it 's pretty.

Jackie:

Do you have sunsets like this on Mewni?

Star:

Yeah... It’s pretty much the same.

Jackie:

That sounds cool. At least you can have something to remind you of your home while you’re here on Earth. That’s nice.

Star:

I guess...

[Awkward silence]

Jackie:

You know, I’m curious. How exactly things work on Mewni… It’s just that I...

Star:

[interrupting her] Okay, cut it out Jackie. We both know why you’re here so please just stop pretending that you like me and face the problem.

Jackie:

Okay, I think we start off with the wrong foot, so I’ll start all over again. Star, I’m not here to fight with you. On the contrary, I’m here to help you.

Star:

[sobbing] Really?

Jackie:

Of course. Look, the thing is: I’m worried about Marco. I’ve been trying to contact him the whole weekend, but he just keeps blocking my messages. I need you to help me.

Star:

What? What is it?

Jackie:

Well… you’re like… the most important person in his life right now and I’m here to ask you what’s going on… please, tell me what to do because, frankly I don’t know what’s going on and I don’t want to look the other way and pretend that nothing happened.

Star:

Well, you came to the wrong place because I didn’t talk to him since last week. I’m just as clueless as you right now.

Jackie:

[laughing] Oh man, I don’t believe it...

Star:

What 's so funny?

Jackie:

I mean what are you doing? Just to sit down and feel sorry for ourselves just because we don’t want to face tthe elephant in the room. Kinda silly, don’t you think?

Star:

Yeah… It’s… very silly...

[They share another moment of silence until Star chuckles while being followed by Jackie. Eventually both girls ended up bursting in laughter]

Star:

We sure are a couple of silly girls, don’t you think?

Jackie:

Yep.

Star:

Jackie, I...

Jackie:

Wait… Let me go first so we can get this out of the way: I know how important Marco is for you, not only as a friend and… I thought it was pretty brave when you confessed your feelings in front of everyone. I thought that was pretty rad.

Star:

Wow, thank you Jackie. That means a lot to me.

Jackie:

My point is: Even though I still love Marco, I don’t want to get in the way if he feels the same as you do, but if we keep ignoring the problem, we may never know.

Star:

[taking a deep breath] You’re right. We should go with Marco and settle this argument once and for all. And no matter what decision he would take, I must be strong...

Jackie:

Now, that’s the spirit. So what do you say, truce? [extends her hand]

Star:

Truce. [shakes hands with her]

Old Man:

[o.s] Hey, what is that noise? Is anyone up there on my roof? I’ll call the police.

Star:

Okay, I think we should go right now...

[Star summons Cloudy so she and Jackie can quickly flee from the roof. Cut to Marco’s house where Star and Jackie are trying to make Marco come out of his room]

Star:

[knocking at the door] Marco? Marco? It’s me Star. Open the door please. Jackie and I just want to talk… come on...

Jackie:

We’re not mad at you or anything dude. We just want to clear things up. Please.

[They keep knocking but they have no answer from Marco whatsoever]

Star:

[getting desperate] Okay Marco, cut it out. You can’t just run away from your problems like this [keeps knocking at the door] Don’t make me use the wand...

Jackie:

[whispering to Star] Calm down Star, the more you push it, the less he will want to talk with us. We need to come up with a different strategy.

Star:

You’re right ...[snaps her fingers] I’ve got it.

[Star uses her wand to create a laser puppy]

Star:

I have a cute laser puppy for you, but only if you open the door.

Marco:

[o.s] Meh...

Star:

[getting angry] OH COME ON!!! [drops the puppy and it shoots her in the eye] Ouch!!!

[Jackie thinks for a moment and comes up with an idea]

Jackie:

You know what Star? Just forget about it. It’s obvious that Marco doesn’t care about any of us. What a waste of a man, don’t you think? [winks at her]

Star:

Yeah, and I thought he was some sort of “misunderstood bad boy” but I guess I was wrong. He’s nothing but a wimp. The safest safety kid I’ve ever met. What a whiny crybaby. Oh, you wanna cry?

Jackie:

Uhm, Star? I think you’re overdoing it...

Star:

[mocking voice] Oh, look at me: I’m Marco Diaz and I think I’m so cool because I take karate lessons, but I still get beat up by an 8-year old. I can’t even confess my feelings to Jackie without the help of Star, I’m such a cute looking coward...

[Marco finally opens the door]

Marco:

Ugh, okay okay I get it, I’ll talk with you... just... stop please.

Star:

[to Jackie] You see? I knew it would work.

[Marco, Star and Jackie sit on the bed to talk]

Jackie:

Okay, first things first: Explain Star what happened at the party.

Star:

Wait, what?

Marco:

Well, you see Star: when… [takes a deep breath] when Jackie and I were at Alfonzo’s parents bedroom we… we were making out and… and...

Jackie:

Keep going...

Marco:

I… said your name because I was thinking about you.

[Star reacts with surprise while Marco just look down at the floor ]

Marco:

That’s it. And I’m really sorry Jackie. It’s not that I don’t like you or anything… It’s just tha...t I’m so confused since Star said she had a crush on me. I mean, before that I’ve always thought of you as a friend, but...

Star:

But…?

Marco:

I’m not gonna lie. I’ve fantasized about you a couple of times, you know… before I started to date Jackie… I think you’re pretty and… since we used to hang out together so many times, I... I guess I got the wrong idea about us.

Star:

No, no, don’t say that… This is also my fault. I’ve confessed my feelings at the wrong place at the wrong time because I thought I would never see you again, it is I who has to apologize.

Marco:

Don’t worry Star, I forgive you.

[They smile at each other and share a hug]

Star:

But Still… What I did at the party has no excuse, even if I was just trying to hide from Oskar. Jackie, I’m sorry for what happened and I promise it won’t ever happen again...

Jackie:

Yeah, about that... I was thinking...

Star:

[interrupting her] I mean, Marco is your boyfriend and I never should have done that to you. It’s just that…

Jackie:

Star, please let me finish...

Star:

[interrupting her again] After all, what is love? this wild, unpredictable thing that you can’t just get in control. One day you’re eating nachos in front of the TV next to a cute boy and then… you fall for that boy after realizing that he has a lot of things in common with you... and even if you think he will never reciprocate, that warm feeling to have him next to you is just… like… that feeling just don’t go away. It’s the same old story, boy meets girl, she likes him, but he likes someone else and… blah blah blah… anyway, the point is… just because we love the same boy doesn’t mean we can’t get along… just give me some time to figure things out and maybe...

Jackie:

I can share him with you if you want.

Star & Marco:

SAY WHAAAAAAT?

Jackie:

Yeah, that’s what I wanted to talk about with both of you. Look: I know how close you are, but I’ve always thought it was more like a brother-sister relationship. And don’t get me wrong: I have no problem with both of you dating as long as Marco is happy, but… I am still in love with him and... I was thinking that the best way to settle this argument is to let him decide which one of us loves the most… [sigh] I know it was a stupid idea, just forget of what I said please... [looks at the floor in embarrassment] I’ must be crazy...

Marco:

Jackie? Are you sure about this? like, maybe we should talk about this...

Star:

I’ll do it.

Marco:

SAY WHAAAAAT?

Star:

Yeah, I want to do it. If I have the chance to know if I’m the one you love the most, I’ll take it. Besides, if I have to share my boyfriend, at least I’m glad that is you Jackie.

Jackie:

I’m feeling the same way Star.

Marco:

Wow wow wow, hold on just. Can I have a word from all of this please?

Jackie:

Of course Marco, don’t you see? that 's the point. You’ll get the chance to date both of us and let your heart decide. No pressure, no grudges, just be sure to know what do you think is the right choice... What do you say?

Marco:

Well, it’s really weird that you’re willing to do this for me, but also I’m glad to hear it so… Okay, I’m in...

Star:

Great, now we can all be happy and I get the chance to get intimate with Marco. I’m so excited.

Jackie:

Mmmmm… Speaking of getting intimate: I’ve noticed that your parents aren’t home, is that right?

Marco:

Uhm, yeah, they’re in a meeting with the Morrissey's and won’t be back until tomorrow.

Jackie:

Perfect. That means we can begin with our little experiment right away.

Marco:

Wait, experiment? Do you mean…?

[Star and Jackie stare at Marco with a lascivious look. Jackie steps up to lock up the door. Marco’s heart keeps beating faster]

Jackie:

[grabbing Marco’s left arm] Consider this my gift to you.

Star:

[grabbing Marco’s right arm] This will be a night you will never forget.

Marco:

[blushing] Uhm, Girls? Can we take our time to talk about this...? [Star and Jackie start making out with him before he can finish]

[TIME CARD: TWO HOURS LATER]

[Cut to Marco, Star and Jackie under the bed sheets all sweaty and exhausted]

Jackie:

Wow… that was just… amazing...

Star:

I know right? I mean, I didn’t know you, we're so… experienced… Have you done this before?

Jackie:

Yeah, I thought you were a virgin.

Marco:

Well, you see, I...

Star:

It doesn’t matter. What is important is how we are gonna do it to share Marco from now on-

Marco:

Hey, I’m not a toy.

Jackie:

Relax, we won’t get carried away. We just want you to have the proper chance to spend all the time you need, no pressures, remember?

Marco:

Uhm, yeah I guess...

Star:

Okay, how about if we take turns day by day...

Marco:

Day by Day, don’t you think that...

Jackie:

[interrupting him] That’s brilliant. It’s like: I can have him on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays...

Star:

...And I can have him on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays...

Star & Jackie:

...And we have a threesome on Sundays.

Marco:

Nevermind.

Star:

Oh, Marco, I’ve got the feeling that the best days of our lives are about to begin.

Marco:

Yeah, sure... [narrating] ...and that’s how the most stressful days of my life began. Now, If you want to know how this is going to end, you’re asking the wrong person, cause to tell you the truth: not even I can comprehend any of this… Just hope for the best and wish me luck, because God knows I’m gonna need it.

MARCO VS. THE FORCES OF LOVE - EPISODE 1: DEATH OF A PARTY

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ro-mantik · 7 years

Video

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My boyfriend and I watched the Miyazaki film, Porco Rosso, this past weekend, leading me another step closer to watching every Ghibli-produced film. One aspect of the film that left a lasting impression was the music, the main Theme of Marco and Gina in particular.

The lilting melody carried me through the day today, and I couldn’t help but feel a bit empty as the notes left me on the balcony of that café en plein air. Two cups of hot coffee, a muffin, and bird song. His legs crossed and gaze cast off somewhere into the distance.

A wondrous nostalgia for our memories, a gentle longing for a united future, I similarly looked out from my office window and felt myself getting a bit teary.

The film’s an underrated one and, overall, an understated one. But a message that quietly unfolded before me is the significance of finding sparks in one’s life, whether deliberate or accidental, that encourage us, drive us to figuratively (or literally) fly once again.

#him #on the bus #studio ghibli #porco rosso

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awinger24 · 6 years

Text

Warning and Regards About “Club Snubbed” From SVTFOE

About Scent of a Hoodie and Rest in Pudding. We got two episodes that are actually plot heavy aren’t considered filler.

The “letting go and moving on” theme is an interesting topic that the writers try to attempt which they very well. And Rest in Pudding (and Mewberty) does all the horror stuff correct too rather than Hungry Larry

Today is an episode that may have got some hatred over a leak. “Club Snubbed”.

Possibly written and boarded by Sarah Oleksyk and Gina Gress.

I have crossed the line too many times with my constant negative posts. I’m slowly improving.

The point is, I just hope no one says anything rude about what you are about to see when this episode airs. Some of you might think Starco will be Dead and Tomstar will rise.

I would actually admire Tomstar if Star wanted a break from Marco. Star trying to make Tom jealous like the leak said kinda makes me feel suspicious especially when her best friend Pony Head is a bad influence pushing Star into this kind of scenario.

The only way Tom’s character development can be ruined and screwed is that he wants to get back together with Star and begins to hate Marco.

I have gone overboard with the little things too many times but I’ve seen some negativity from the Cal Arts leak, so please give Daron and the writers a chance on this one.

@cid331 @seddm

@galladerocksgamer. If you are reading this. I’m not judging or critiquing you. I’m just picking up the facts.

#svtfoe spoilers #svtfoe #star vs the forces of evil

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belikeapanda · 5 years

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breastforce · 7 years

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Marco is a Trans Girl - The Megapost 2.0

So you’ve likely seen my big post on the theory that Marco Diaz from Star vs The Forces of Evil is a Trans Girl. It was made back in July of 2016 when Season 2 was just starting, and since then a lot of things have changed and we now know a lot more about what’s going on behind the scenes.

This post is meant to be an updated explanation of Trans Girl Marco theory, but now more in line with how things are actually happening. The gist of it being that Marco Diaz is coded as a closeted transgender girl. Expect less theorizing and more meta talk. I’ll be going over all the clues that indicate Marco is trans, as well as how the starcrew came to the desicion as Marco developed as a character.

I can’t give enough thanks to the members of the crew such as @arythusa and @hug-bees, whom have both done as much as they possibly can to communicate with the show’s growing LGBT fanbase, and given us so much insight into what’s going on

Full post below the cut.

Part 1: How it Happened.

“In my experience, almost no character goes into episode 1 totally finished. With such a long writing process, people end up changing and "discovering" more about the characters as they go on.” -Sabrina Cotungo [x]

A lot of aspects in Star Vs developed and matured along Seasons 1 and 2. Alfonso and Ferguson were written out and Janna joined the main cast, Ponyhead, Tom, and Glossaryk were given bigger roles, etc. So it’s pretty clear that Marco wasn’t originally penned as a Trans Girl. For the greater half of Season 1, they were simply a boy that ocassional feminine tendancies, with very few episodes indicating that there was anything else going on.

So what happened?

Well, individual writers and storyboarders have a bit of creative freedom when it comes to cartoon episodes. While they don’t have the ability to set much in stone, they can weave their own interpritations of characters into the outline that they’re given, inserting in small details that can enrich a character.

So while Marco was ‘officially’ a feminine boy, some writers interprited their feminity and general insecurities as indicative of something deeper.

One such example is in Mewberty:

While Star’s under an affliction that causes her to break out in hearts around boys, the writers have Marco not realize that they’re also a ‘boy’ for the first quarter of the episode, and when Marco’s hit over the head with something that would seem to be fairly evident for them, there’s a very noticable pause indicating that it’s something they are (or have just become) self-concious about.

And just to hammer the point home, there’s even a part in the episode where Marco’s outright mistaken to be a girl:

And Marco could have just been left at that.

The episode where I believe things changed though, is St. Olga’s School For Wayward Princesses

Marco disguises themself as a Princess to break help Star break into a boarding school, and the whole thing is completely natural. Marco doesn’t really try at all to be something they’re not - they’re just Marco.

Most media would have somebody suspect that there was something ‘off’ about Marco or constantly bring up how they’re the “odd one out” amongst all the other girls. Instead, Marco’s allowed to simply just be a girl for an episode without any objections from the narrative. Their gender is never made fun of, questioned, second-guessed, or even really brought up at all, even by the villain.

Not to mention the message of the episode - It’s Not Criminal To Be An Individual

It’s all about how there’s no wrong way to be a princess, but since royalty is a very narrow market in the United States, let’s just assume that the actual message is about how there’s no wrong way to be a girl.

And it’s likely no coincidence that Marco’s not only viewed as being no different from any of the other princess but also the keystone of the entire movement.

There’s no wrong way to be a girl, and Marco’s included in that.

I don’t know for sure whether the writer behind this episode, Piero Piluso, conciously wrote Marco with them being transgender in mind, but they wrote Princess Marco as a girl through and through.

And that’s likely when the lightbulbs started going off in the crew.

Season 2 brought in a slew of new writers and cast members, including people who’ve had previous expierience writing LGBT characters such as Giancarlo Volpe, Evon Freeman, Le Tang, Amelia Lorenz, Zach Marcus, Brett Varon, Gina Gress, and the aforementioned Sabrina Cotungo (whom had even tried to get a transgender character into Gravity Falls)

The new batch of writers now all had the existence of Princess Marco influencing their interpritations of Marco, which made it a lot easier for many of them to come to the conclusion that there was something deeper going on, and that this kid was trans.

Thus resulting in a MASSIVE explosion of hints occuring throughout Season 2.

Part 2: Scattered Evidence

“So if and/or when you detect LGBT-friendly themes on this show, it’s most likely there because the creators fought hard to put it there. They did the best they could to get any form of representation over, under or around those censors. They put it there to make a positive change in media.” -Amelia Lorenz [x]

Seaon 2 was where things really staarted to pck up.

Marco’s very first appearance is this:

Alright, they could be a feminine guy, Doesn’t exactly prove anything

They then spend the rest of the episode trapped in a closet that they want to get out of.

Which just so happens to be a Closet of Secrets.

Star even proposes at one point that it might be easier for Marco to just spend the rest of their life in the closet.

And, to top it all off, the writers specifically have Marco spend their entire time in said closet wearing a goddamn skirt.

In Mr. Candle Cares we get Marco outright saying they’d ‘Love to be Queen’.

Red Belt opens up with a dream sequence where Marco’s more shocked to find themselves buried in a suit than dead:

And upon seeing themselves in a suit (which they don’t want!), they’re reminded that they’re unsure of themselves and their future.

And how, to Marco, there’s something holding them down. Something that they’re missing. Something that sets them apart from the rest of the cast (!!!!!!!!).

And this dyphoria Marco’s expieriencing was set off by a suit covered in mewberty hearts.

Calling back to the ‘Boy Hands’ moment above:

Marco fears that they’ll spend their life closeted, that they won’t be able to progress in life because they spent it hiding away, unable to escape being a ‘boy’ just like what happened in Mewberty.

And the dream wasn’t just a one-off thing for Marco:

It’s a regular, recurring nightmare they’ve had to the point where they told Star about it. They’ve been unsettled over the long term, but the show hasn’t shown it, they just let us know in this moment.

Then we get Fetch, where in the last few minutes the writers do an animal-based dysphoria metaphor that puts Cartoon Network to shame.

It is pretty clear that the writers know what they’re doing because that’s legitimately one of the better explanations of what having dysphoria is like that I’ve seen on television: Rather than the dog talking about how they were “born in the wrong body”, they want to be a dog that is just like any other in order to calm their troubled emotions.

The book Star and Marco’s Guide to Mastering Every Dimension hammers down on the trans metaphor even further:

Willoughby is a dog. But in her dimension, dogs aren’t like dogs on Earth. They have very complicated feelings. So she stole my wand to make herself not have those complicated feelings anymore.

This passage can easily be translated to: “Some [women] aren’t like [other women]. They have very complicated feelings. So they [transition] to make themselves not have those complicated feelings anymore.” which is such a simple way of explaining what being trans is like to kids that it wouldn’t feel out of place on Sesame Street.

Not even a minute after the first exchange, we get this:

Which not only hammers in the idea that this is all about gender ever further, since they include a gender reveal that has no other real impact on the story, but if the dog’s in any way symbolic of Marco, then the scene pretty much speaks for itself.

And then in Gift of the Card, Heinous makes her return and the name “Princess Marco” is actually used in the show itself.

And after a season with a bunch of bits and pieces of foreshadowing scattered throughout:

It’s revealed in Nayasya that Marco does in fact have dysphoria, they’re so ashamed of their body that they can’t even look themselves in the mirror:

Marco Diaz covers the mirror when he shows because Marco is ashamed of his own body!

In addition, mirrors and showers are such common motifs in trans narratives that Sense8 had their trans character describe her dysphoria in nearly the same exact way.

“At that age I was really uncomfortable with my body and didn’t like to be naked, especially in front of other boys. But you had to take a shower before you went in the pool, so I would do it but I kept my swimsuit on.”

And the only point where Marco can apparently somewhat stand to look themselves in the mirror?

When they’re dressed like that. Indicating that this isn’t just some Teenaged Body Insecurity but rather dysphoria.

Star and Marco's Guide to Mastering Every Dimension, a canonical side book that fleshes out the lore of the show, also manages to expand on Marco’s thoughts on their stay at St. Olga’s:

I almost died at St. O’s. Twice. The first time was at the hands of some robot guards, and the second time I almost died emotionally in the Solitary Conform-ment Chamber. I did learn that I’d make a great princess. I really wouldn’t say that pink is my color... but I wouldn’t mind wearing a poofy dress every now and then. It’s kinda liberating.

Notice their word choice. Not only do they outright say “I learned I’d make a great princess”, not only indicating that they did infact themselves as a girl in St. Olga’s to a degree rather than simply seeing the whole thing as ‘just a disguise’, but they also call wearing a ‘poofy dress’ to be liberating.

There is a HUGE difference between “a guy enjoys wearing dresses and would like to wear them more often’ and ‘somebody who’s fantasized about being a girl finds a dress they didn’t even chose to wear to be personally liberating’. It’s not simply a matter of Marco wearing a dress, but rather that their attitudes towards it (and everything else) are something that a lot of Trans Women have found relatable.

Part 3: ‘Heinous’

“I can tell you that Daron is open to the idea of LGBT characters but beyond that the situation gets complicated. Also, as a board artist, I don’t have a lot of say in terms of larger story or character arcs, so I’m afraid I can’t comment on future plans.” - Sabrina Cotugno [x]

At this point there’s a number of members in the crew that all view Marco as a trans girl, and are writing her that way, but nobody has the power to make it explicit.

Then comes ‘Heinous’.

This episode pushed this concept to its absolute limit, where the writers for the episode did literally everything they could to get across the message that Marco’s trans and brought the theory to being as canon as they can possibly get at the time. (To the point where people on Reddit who either didn’t follow or dismissed the theory were struggling to figure out what the point of the episode was)

The basics:

Marco is consistently gendered with ‘she’ pronouns throughout the episode and the writers don’t have anybody ever question it

When in her Princess getup, Marco explictly refers to herself as a girl and seems to have a blast despite being blackmailed, to the point where they voluntairly keep on the dress for family game night.

The dialogue from Marco’s parents have loads of double meanings, where they’re talking about finding out about Marco’s interdimensional activities, but deliberately involk the image of somebody who just got outed as being gay or transgender to their parents.

And, most of all, Princess Marco wasn’t just a distant memory that didn’t matter. The episode revealed that Marco secretly kept up the ‘Princess Marco’ persona this whole time, getting royalty checks from merchandise inspired by her.

And to make things even more meta, Marco has apparently ‘influencing the next generation of princesses’ to be true to themselves.

The whole theme of the episode is Marco getting across a hidden message meant to inspire people despite being restricted in what they can say. So Marco says what they’re obliged to say, but phrases it in a way that makes the true message clear to the intended audience. This is essentially how the crew has been handling the theory in of itself.

Part 4 (for now): Conclusions

I’ll continue to update the post with relevant information as we move onto Season 3, so this part of the post will most likely change

The image that is being drawn is that the crew really really really wants to include trans representation within their work, and not only views but are actively writing a character as being transgender, but they can not come out and just say it due to legal reasons.

The crew’s response to the idea of Marco being transgender, as well as the prospects of LGBT representation within the show itself, has been nothing but positive. They’ve been consistently defending it to the point where one of the directors for Season 4 put out an argument as for why Marco being transgender girl is more important than them being a boy.

It’s not certain whether or not Marco will be able to come out and transition to being a girl during the series. The crew has many times expressed frustration about how much of a fight they have to put up to even get hints at LGBT representation past the censors. In the meantime, or in case they ultimately don’t succeed, the staff are deliberately giving trans people something to relate to in Princess Marco, and are doing everything they can to make sure we at least have that.

“I wish I could give a more reassuring or more substantial answer, but little by little people in the industry are trying to change things. The victories seem a bit small for now, but please know that you’re not forgotten.” -Ariel V.H. [x]

#svtfoe #trans marco #marco is trans theory

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