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ordinaryschmuck · 3 years

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What I thought about WandaVision

Y'know, it's kind of crazy to think that it's been over a year since we've been given any content involving the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Marvel Studios announced so many great movies, on top of new TV shows that actually impact the story, way back in the summer of 2019. But then 2020 happened. Resulting in everything, and I mean everything, we were promised getting pushed back for another year. So, when it was finally announced that the series WandaVision was, at last, ready to be released, fans were both excited as well as skeptical. Because the first thing that would reintegrate us back into this franchise would be a show about how two Avengers are stuck in a sitcom. It might be new, long-awaited content, but it also doesn't sound all that interesting. Could a story involving two characters who have yet to stand on their own be enough to carry a brand new adventure? Well, for eight whole weeks, fans were given that answer. And personally, I will admit that WandaVision might have been better than anybody could have ever expected...for the most part.

(Final spoiler warning if you haven't seen the show yet)

WHAT I LIKE

It Just Goes: This is easily the best way the series could have started. We are given no context about what is going on. We're just shown that Wanda and Vision are currently stuck in a sitcom, and that's it. By making it a mystery, fans are given this sort of interaction with the series as they find clues and come up with theories about how and why this happened. Sure, some assumptions were more far fetched than others (did people think Mephisto was confirmed just because of one misinterpreted line involving the Devil?), but it still makes the show a ton of fun to watch. Plus, even when we're given answers, it's only tiny pieces of the puzzle. We're always given a chance to figure out the bigger picture, resulting in an image that is, I'll admit, somewhat satisfying to see. Just as long as you ignore the crybabies who get upset that their favorite theories turned out to be wrong.

The Homages are on Point: I also love how straight the cast and crew play with the idea of two superheroes being stuck in a series of sitcoms. Everything they use fits in the era each sitcom takes place in. With things like camerawork, set design, special effects, acting quality, tropes, and even theme songs, everything works as a proper homage than just having two episodes in black and white and the rest in color. Each new sitcom that Wanda and Vision are rebooted in feels so genuine, to the point where they seem like they could be actual shows that could have existed. Seriously, my dad showed me stuff like The Dick Van Dyke Show when I was a kid, so trust me when I say that the very first episode nails the style that it's honoring. Not only is it charming as all forms of hell, but it also works in making these moments when characters break from the spell (get it) all the more jarring and even disturbing at times. Because when you're so keen on watching what seems like a fun and cheesy sitcom, you feel a bit unsettled when a character suddenly acts in a way that's a tad foreboding. Still, it's fun to watch and is easily the central hook for what makes this show work.

The Comedy: The homages also nail the comedy that came from each type of sitcom. The jokes fit with each period, from the cheesy and charming 50s to the cynical and dry 90s and early 2000s. It's another thing the writers play straight with, and I think it works. The only jokes made by most stories like this are just pointing out that these serious characters are stuck in a silly sitcom. Instead, the writers tell jokes that work for the period it's in, and it is all genuinely funny if you're used to those types of goofs and gags. If you didn't laugh, that's because the comedy isn't trying to reach out to you. It's reaching out to the people who actually watched these types of sitcoms. Or, in my case, the type of people who had their parents show them these types of sitcoms. And even then, I still think there are these lines and deliveries that are still funny even if you don't get the joke. For example, there's this brief moment with Vision and a toy baby that got a genuine chuckle out of me for how absurd it was. I wasn't expecting to laugh that much, but on top of the many surprises this show gave, being funny was definitely one of them.

“My husband, and his indestructible forehead”: He...hehe...hehehehahahaHAHAHAHA! AH! HA! HA! HA!

*Slowly starts sobbing*

>Squeaks<

I see what you did there.

Paul Bettany as “Vision,” “Vision,” and Vision: Can we give Paul Bettany a round of applause for basically playing three different characters, each with their own varying levels of emotions and purposes? Because goodness gracious, this man is a champion! I've seen tons of people praise Elizabeth Olson for her performance as Wanda, and to be fair, she does do a fantastic job...aside from one blatant issue (which I'll get into later). But as great as Olson is, Bettany still deserves some credit. Throughout most of the series, he has this level of comedic-timing that I didn't even know he was capable of, by going ham or just having a dry wit. Seriously, was someone going to tell me that Paul Bettany can be funny, or was I supposed to find that out for myself? On top of being hilarious, Bettany delivers such raw emotion that none of us would have ever expected from this character. That screaming match “Vision” has with Wanda shows the very first time that any version of him has ever been angry, and Bettany does a great job at making that moment as jarring as it needed to be. And that's just from playing one version of the character! I didn't even talk about how he nails the naive yet still wise Vision from the flashback in "Previously On" or the cold and robotic "Vision" from "The Series Finale." Bettany has range, and WandaVision is a great show that proves how. One just needs to have the right amount of vision to see it (HhhhhhhhhhhHA!)

Developing Wanda: But as great as Paul Bettany, and to a lesser extent, Vision, is, Wanda Maximoff is clearly the star of the show here (And yes, I know that it's Wanda who's the character and Elizabeth Olson is the actor, but...I'll get into it!). If WandaVision has taught me anything about these Disney+ shows, it's that we are finally going to get some long-awaited development to characters that are starved from it. And Wanda definitely needed it. Don't get me wrong, Wanda was great in past movies but wasn't that compelling of a character. Here, trust me when I say that the opposite is true.

We are given a deep dive into not only Wanda's morality but also her psyche. The writers really play around with how scary Wanda can be. As well as questioning if Wanda has the capability of being evil. Because, yeah, what she did was not right. True, our "heroine" was going through some rough s**t, but that doesn't excuse the amount of torture Wanda put the people of Westview through, no matter how unwittingly. Just look at that scene where everyone grills Wanda about what she's doing to them, not only pleading for whatever compromise they can get and even begging for her to kill them instead. That is dark! That is the darkest concept the MCU has ever offered, and the ending of Avengers: Infinity War exists!

But, while it doesn't entirely excuse everything, there is a reason why Wanda did all of this. You see, throughout WandaVision, Wanda goes through the five stages of grief. It all starts with denial as she pretends to live in a sitcom that she created where Vision is alive, and they get to even have kids together. Soon comes anger when she destroys anything and physically harms anyone that tries to bring her back to reality. Next, there's bargaining as Wanda strengthens her hex and expands it to keep outsiders out and keep Vision in. This leads to depression as the weight of all of Wanda's actions finally sinks in, and she's forced to realize the damage she's causing. Until all of it ends with acceptance, as Wanda finally, finally, gets to say goodbye to Vision. Something she never really got when Thanos ripped the mind stone out of Vision's forehead. It's both incredible to watch as it is fascinating. Wanda, through the course of her own little spin-off series, just went from a decent character to one of the most intriguing to dissect in the MCU. And we have this show to thank for it.

The Commercials: These commercials offer three things.

They're more homages to classic television, each product and filming for each one honoring how commercials looked in each era.

They offer more of an insight into Wanda's psyche as we see how each commercial shows bits of her history, regrets, and deepest desires. You see all of the above in the Lagos' paper towel commercial.

There are neat bits of foreshadowing of what's to come, like how Hydra Soak ends by saying it's for "your inner goddess" or how the 90s commercial ends by saying Magic isn't meant for the weak.

With all of that, these commercials are as fun to analyze as they are disturbing as hell.

The Dinner Scene: This was the moment it was clear that WandaVision wasn’t going to just be fun and games. The second that "Mr. Heart" starts screaming at Wanda about why she and Vision came, it becomes clear that the whole wacky scenario our heroes are in isn't as harmless as we all thought. And when "Mrs. Heart" playfully tells her husband to stop it when “Mr. Heart” starts choking, only to desperately scream at Wanda to stop it, audiences begin to piece together that the people of Westview are prisoners--no--victims. As for Wanda? She's the unknowing dictator forcing them to do what she says. And it was this scene that I knew I was going to really enjoy this show.

The Blip Scene: And it was this scene that made WandaVision skyrocket into top-tier MCU territory! As much as I love Spider-Man: Far From Home, I will admit that making a joke with the concept of something like the blip might not have been the best move. But showing the chaos of everyone coming back all at once? On top of showing the confusion that a person would have from being told that a five-second nap was five years? Yeah, that's more in line with what we want.

Returning Characters: Not only was I surprised by the fact that these pretty minor characters in the MCU made a return at all, but I was also shocked to find out they work better in this series than they did in their respective movies. First, there's Monica. Not only is she reintroduced as a brand new hero (with, admittingly, confusing superpowers), but she also works as the anti-Wanda. Both characters had someone they care about dearly die without getting a chance to say goodbye. The difference is that Monica doesn't have the abilities Wanda does and is instead forced to quickly accept that her mom is dead and won't come back. She even admits that she would bring her mom back if she could. But that just makes Monica the perfect person that Wanda needs. A person that understands where she's coming from and tries to convince Wanda to do the right thing, no matter how hard it is. Monica's methods may have been a tad bit sloppy, but she is still ten times more intriguing than that little girl who screwed around with the color scheme on Captain Marvel’s suit.

Then there's Jimmy Woo, who is both funnier here than in Ant-Man and the Wasp, and actually shows signs of being a competent FBI agent. A step up, I might add, from the hilariously incompetent character we saw in his previous appearance.

And also, Darcie is here...and still slightly annoying...but at least she still has a couple funny lines here and there! Which is more than I can say with Thor and Thor: The Dark World.

In my opinion, it's a good move having these characters with pretty small roles in vastly different stories make a return. It shows that they are not limited to their one little corner of the MCU. And that they can branch off into taller tales that suit them perfectly. It's pretty cool, and it makes me wonder what other small characters could make a triumphant return.

Billy and Tommy: These two are...fine. Billy and Tommy give me Zach and Cody vibes sometimes, the kids playing them do a decent job, and they both offer some great emotional moments. The problem is that out of the list of characters that WandaVision introduces and reintroduces, there's not much to talk about with Billy and Tommy. Honestly, the only reason why I briefly mentioned that I like them is that I don't want dozens of people crucifying me for not saying anything about them. I don't hate them, but I don't much care for them either.

Evan Peters as Quicksilver: Although I would have loved it if it was Aaron Taylor-Johnson who made a return, seeing Evan Peters in a good Marvel movie again is more than worth it. He plays a much more fun version of Quicksilver while still nailing the sibling relationship the character has with Wanda. In a way, it's a lot like how Marvel cast J.K. Simmons as J Jonah Jameson at the end of Spider-Man: Far From Home. It's admitting that no one could have played the character better than this one actor and briefly making fans happy in the process. While also not doing something crazy like having it be the exact same Quicksilver from the X-Men movies. Only f**king idiots would believe something like that...

...

...But hypothetically speaking, let's say some people were stupid to believe that. While making an outrageous claim that the writers "lead them on to doing so." In which case, I will say the same thing that one would say when friend-zoning someone: "Nobody led you on to s**t. You were just too busy focusing on what you wanted to see instead of what you needed to see."

Because there was no evidence that it was the same Quicksilver other than the fact that it was the same actor. And, hypothetically speaking, if there were dozens of crybabies who were upset about it not being the same Quicksilver, then I have so much more respect for this character being nothing more than a boner joke. Because you did this to yourselves...hypothetically speaking.

Retconning Wanda’s Powers: ...I'm ok with this. Retcons happen all the time in the comics, as well as in movies and television. It's just a matter of making the retcon believable enough where there are few holes in what you're telling people. As for Wanda apparently having magic this entire time, but the mind stone amplified her powers? I can buy that. Besides, it's an acceptable excuse to make Wanda as powerful as she is in the comics (from what I've been told), so like I said, I'm ok with this.

“I can’t feel you…”: ...That's fine. I didn't need my heart anyway.

“Vision’s” Talk with “Vision”: Forget the horrible CGIed battles. I want more of this!

Now, I put both Visions in quotation marks because while they're both the same character, they're also...not the same. Which is, funnily enough, what this scene is: A philosophical discussion between two versions of the same android about what makes them both/neither the definitive version. One may look the same, and the other may be the same body, but neither "Vision" really is the true Vision. However, the fact that these two stop their fighting so they can have this discussion in the first place helps secure that while different, they are still the same. It's a thought-provoking discussion, and it is ten times more interesting to watch than Wanda and Agatha's CGI fight in the sky. Although it is kind of odd that White-Vision just peaces out the second Hex-Vision gives him a reboot. But hey, that's for the future movies to deal with.

“Thank you for choosing me to be your mom.”: >Deep inhale<...Girl.

Wanda Saying Goodbye to Vision: >DEEPER INHALE< HOOOOOOOOOOO BOY! I did not expect this much emotional turmoil from f**king WANDAVISION!

Joking aside, this is a well-handled scene. It's incredibly emotional to see these two characters say goodbye to each other as their arcs come to a close. "Vision" peacefully leaves knowing who he is in the world, and Wanda can finally start moving on as she gets to say goodbye to her one true love. It's as bittersweet as it is beautiful.

WHAT I DISLIKE

MCU logos flashing in every episode: You know how CinemaSins has this bulls**t excuse about how the MCU opening logo wastes time to get to the good stuff? This is the only instance where that's applicable. Because the opening logo was cool to see again for the first episode, but having it play in every single one after breaks the immersion when trying to binge the series. It's for a couple of seconds, sure, but after a while, it does get pretty annoying.

Elizabeth Olson as Scarlet Witch: Now, to be clear, I have no problems with Elizabeth Olson's acting ability in this series. She juggles being funny, heartbreaking, and threatening so well that I am likely to laugh and cry with her as I am to s**t my pants while in her presence. Elizabeth Olson does a great job with this character. The problem? Well, in the comics, Wanda Maximoff is Roma, and Elizabeth Olson...isn't. This means that WandaVision, and the MCU as a whole, has a bad case of white-washing.

I could go on about the issues this brings, but I am not as educated about this subject, and all I know is just stuff that seems like common sense. For instance, I believe it is more than reasonable to hire an actor of a specific race or ethnicity for a character who is of a that same race or ethnicity. But that is as far as my knowledge and personal stance goes, and to expand on it would be too much of a risk because I have no right to criticize the representation of something I am not a part of. So instead, I'm going to point you to @earnestdesire‘s blog and Jessica Reidy’s article on the subject. They do a great job at discussing the issues with Olson’s Wanda and pointing to the issues the MCU has in representing Wanda and Pietro's representation in the comics. And they do it in a far better way than I ever could have. So check them out to truly see why, despite doing a great job, Elizabeth Olson should not be the person donning the suit.

It Was Agatha All Along: AND I STILL F**KING HATE THAT!

I know, I know, I am in the minority on this one. And I still don't understand why! To me, Agatha has all of the problems that Hans has in Frozen. Sure, there are hints if you pay more attention during a few select scenes that are slightly questionable. Like how she refers to Wanda as "the star of the show" or coincidentally shows up with a dog house for Sparky. However, much like how Frozen didn't need a villain like Hans, WandaVision didn't need a comic book villain like Agatha. The story was perfectly passable as a personal conflict involving Wanda's grief where the only obstacle was the director of S.W.O.R.D. and his agents. There is nothing Agatha adds to that.

"But she helps Wanda find out what happens!" Yeah, but Monica could have done the same thing by actually breaking through to Wanda and calmly asking what happened. From then on, they could have worked things out together by having Wanda retrace events that transpired through the information that Monica knows as well.

"But Agatha helps Wanda realize what she's doing is wrong!" So could Vision! He could have shown up, did that mind-meld thing to the townspeople, and Wanda would finally learn what she was doing was wrong through the person she trusts the most.

"But Agatha helps Wanda learn that she's the Scarlet Witch!" Ok...but did that need to happen in this series? Because when you think about it, when the central conflict is all about exploring Wanda's grief, throwing in this narrative about becoming the Scarlet Witch has little to do with anything. Meaning that if you cut it from the story, little would change other than cutting a CGI battle that everyone agrees is the worst part of the series.

The most Agatha adds to the story is a secondary conflict that could easily be cut, and the overall quality would stay the same, if not better. And that is a problem. Agatha needs to add to the central conflict in a way that no other character could have. Like, give her a reason to be involved in Wanda’s life that goes beyond feeding off her magic and leading Wanda to her destiny. Because as is, even if you argue that Agatha is a good twist villain, she's a villain that really didn't need to be here.

Director Haywood: But as much as I don't like Agatha, I think we can all agree that Director Haywood is the worst villain in the MCU. Because one issue that Haywood has is a lack of motivation. For instance, why does he try so hard to write off Wanda as this supervillain? It was never explained, and for something so bizarre and crucial to his character, I feel like it needed to be. It would be passable if he was motivated out of fear and ignorance, but Haywood goes so far as to misedit security footage to prove his point. And I don't get why.

Is he sexist?

Did Wanda not show up at his kid's birthday party?

Did he secretly want to use Vision as a sexbot and didn't want Wanda to get between them?

I don't know, and I'll never know.

Plus, on top of having no motivation, Haywood is just forgettable. Agatha may piss me off to no end, but at least I'll remember her. I honestly forgot Haywood's name half the time, and I'm willing to bet that you did too. Case in point, his name isn't even Haywood. It's Hayward. And in the off chance that you didn't even know about that misspelling just proves my point about how forgettable Hayward is. While it's one thing to be hated, it's another to be forgotten. Because that just means that you left so little impact that you aren't even worth getting upset about.

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And that is what I thought about WandaVision. If I had to base this off my usual score, I'd have to give the show the same 7/10 that everyone else gave it. Because there's a lot that I love, but the stuff that I hate is so problematic that it takes the WandaVision down on a couple of notches. It's still a fantastic series with a solid story, a great message, incredible acting, and phenomenal character development. It's just that not everyone is going to be willing to tune in as much as you might think.

#marvel cinematic universe #wandavision #mcu reviews #wanda maximoff #vision #agatha harkness #what i thought about

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wereallsaloonaticshere · 5 years

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(1,834 words. Or 5 pages)

Lonely night upon lonely night, and Thompson still couldn’t sleep. He kept replaying the Brit’s last promise to him. The sheriff could almost hear it.

“I’ll write! And always remember; my offer for you to come with me stands indefinitely!”

Something about the way the British man said it got Thompson tossing and turning at night. The last-chance hopefulness in his eyes, the please-come-with-me gleam. The faltering but quickly replaced smile after the refusal. He was polite, but it didn’t take a detective to know he was going to miss the man he’d met a few weeks before.

But there was a chance Brits were just...more polite than what he was used to. He was probably reading way too much into a small collection of syllables. A moment, a few moments tops.

But Edward had a glow about him, a slight flushing in his cheeks, that seemed to take off whenever he talked to the American.

Yet Edward was from England, a place notorious for a lack of sunlight, so a sunburn was a completely plausible-

Now Thompson’s only eye hurt, dry from staring at the ceiling. He huffed, and buried his face into the pillow. Forcing his eye shut, he tried to think of what he’d do the next day. Yet he couldn’t stop imagining Edward there with him, right by his side. Smiling.

Months later, Thompson opened his mailbox. He tried not to do it too often, so as to not arouse suspicion, but a letter from his friend was always on his mind. Today he finally got one.

Seeing his own address, written in beautiful cursive, the sheriff sucked in a breath. He run his hand over the envelope, and ran inside his house to read it. He figured the running wouldn’t cause any suspicion, seeing as it was rather early and most people were still asleep.

Shutting his door, he carefully opens it with a letter opener he’d forgotten he had. Pulling out the letter, he reads it, hardly breathing.

Why was he this excited for the letter again?

“My Dear Thompson,” It read, “it has been only a few months and I seem to miss the sun already. I remember I got out of my carriage and felt the warmth spreading throughout me, it was glorious. Sadly, there isn’t any sun here.

“After I returned the Prince, I’ve been given many awards and new cases, so my schedule is very bloated. I love the challenge, but not so much the stress. Writing this letter right now makes me feel better already!

“Has anything interesting happened in Spitbucket? I hope I made things easier for you! You deserve a rest, after all.

“Yours truly, Edward Gold.”

Thompson read the letter, then read it again. He tried to find some sort of subtext in it, but it was just a friendly letter. Thompson couldn’t quite figure out why that bothered him so much. He was just his friend, and what did he expect? For Edward to say he was coming back? Of course not.

Thompson shook his head. He tucked the letter back into the envelope and got out some of his own paper. With ink and pen, he wrote out a greeting.

Several months and many letters later, Thompson still couldn’t stop thinking about the British man he’d come to love. He’d never admit this to anyone - especially not Edward himself - but the sheriff was starting to think the love was different than platonic.

He couldn’t sleep, he could barely work, (not that there were many criminals ever since Edward helped him out), all he wanted to do was re-read old letters. Or to imagine Edward finally coming back, or Thompson going to England.

Edward might exclaim his name, run up to him and hug him. Thompson would hug back, feeling soft fabric and smelling sweet, probably expensive cologne.

Thompson hugged the pillow, feeling a small shiver run down his back just thinking of it.

Another letter came in the mail. Everything was the same, Edward talked about his cases, this time in more detail, (though he probably wasn’t supposed to; confidentiality, you know). Talked about the Prince, and how his parents were arranging his marriage. But the salutation was different.

It said, “Yours forever, Edward”, instead of yours truly.

It should’ve been a criminal offense, since it robbed the sheriff of so much rest.

Wasn’t yours forever a romantic thing? People don’t just sign off like that to friends, did they? England might be different, but Ed had only done yours truly up until then.

Edward wasn’t married. That was something he would’ve brought up to his closest friend, (the 12th letter stated that; even closer than the Prince), so was he waiting for Thompson to make a move, and then got frustrated?

No, no not possibly. Edward just wanted to change things up, most likely. Yet, Thompson did return the gesture, just in case Edward was being romantic. The sheriff signed off with ‘yours forever’, to.

That night, Thompson played with the idea of visiting Edward in England. It wouldn’t be too cold, would it? And what he wouldn’t give to see the man smile, instead of just imagining it.

But it would be too long away from the town, and crime was starting to pick up again. At least his job would give him something to distract himself with.

Thompson decided to get out of bed, and re-read some of the letters again. He got out some of his favorites.

“...I found a suit in a store window that reminded me lot of you. I think you’d like it, though of course by the time you get this, it’ll probably have already been sold...”

“...I feel almost like the rain is mocking me. What I wouldn’t give to have some natural light. Then I could finally enjoy myself without having to worry about ruining my clothes...”

“...It was rather fun, wasn’t it? Finding those criminals, finding Prince Matthew? I miss it. I’m of course happy the Prince is okay, but I’d love to go on another adventure with you soon. Hey, maybe you can come here and we can endure the rain together...”

Thompson liked the last two a lot. He just found it kind of funny that Edward spoke of disliking the rain so often, especially since he had grown up with that sort of weather. Like, what, was he surprised? Eh, Thompson didn't care too much. Any word Ed wrote was one he’d want to read.

Wait...

“Hey, maybe you can come here...”

Edward wanted Thompson to come. He wanted to see Thompson.

Screw this hellhole of a town, Thompson would be gone by daybreak.

After a long and tiring journey on the boat, Thompson was finally in England. He held the envelope tightly in his hand, reading over the address again.

He called a carriage ride and asked for them to take him there. A few raised eyebrows at the man’s dialect, sure, but after that it was quiet until they reached their destination.

“Thanks.” Thompson didn’t exactly know how much the money he was holding in his hand was worth, so he just gave the carriage driver the biggest coin in his pocket. “This gon’ be nough’, or...?”

The man behind the horse stuttered and quickly scooped the currency out of his hand.

“Come back any time! I’d be more than happy to serve you again!”

“I...thanks.” Thompson walked up to Edward’s house, hoping against hope he wasn’t interrupting anything. Knocking on the door, he heard shuffling inside.

“I’ll be there in a minute!” Thompson shuddered slightly. He hadn’t heard his voice in a while, and he was just starting to appreciate how angelic it sounded. The door opened. “Hello - Thompson!”

He quickly enveloped the shorter man into a hug. Thompson felt heat burst in his chest, his head being cradled, fingers running through it softly. Thompson bit back some noise. He could smell the man’s cologne, he buried his face into his neck smell it better.

“I’m so glad you came.”

Thompson melted at those words; it was exactly what he wanted to hear.

“Please! Please, come inside!” Edward opened the door and Thompson walked in. “How are you? I hope everything is alright?”

Thompson honestly hadn’t thought this far ahead. What did he want? Telling Edward means he either gets thrown into the loony bin, or he makes life harder for both of them. What was he even thinking, Edward was just a naturally affectionate guy, he was reading way too much into it, he shouldn’t have-

“Thompson? Are you alright, you’re burning up-” Edward put his hand to Thompson’s forehead until it got whacked away.

“It’s a sunburn.” Thompson swallowed and looked out the windows, then continued on, slightly faltering, “Ya know, from all the rain.”

Edward smiled knowingly at the other man.

Edward was a detective, of course he saw right through it all. He was going to report him soon, he was going to burn all the letters he had written to him, and he was going to pretend he never knew anyone named Thompson. Edward was going to throw him out of his house soon, he was sure, he-

Edward pushed some of Thompson’s hair behind his ear.

“Oh, I knew it.” The British man smiled, a dusting of pink dancing across his features. “I just knew it.”

“Wha-what?” Thompson stuttered. He had never seen anything more beautiful, more magical, more heart-stopping than Edward’s smile. He could hardly form words, he wanted to remember this image for as long as possible.

“Just...the way you acted. What you wrote.” Edward chuckled, “Oh, don’t act so surprised. You wouldn’t have come here if you didn’t know I felt the same. And of course you got the symbolism in the letters.”

“Right...a’ course.” Thompson made a mental note to read over the letters again, in case he found something he missed before. Though he could probably just recite them all from memory.��“The symbolism. The symbolism that was obviously in the letters. The symbolical letters. The symboletters.”

“You didn’t...” Edward looked slightly disappointed. “well, you’re here now.”

Things finally clicked in Thompson’s head.

“Ya...like me back?” Edward once again chuckled at that and cupped Thompson’s face with both hands. It was warm. Thompson’s eye went half-lidded.

“I love you.” It was soft, whispered, long awaited.

“I-I love ya too.” Thompson said, eye flickering down to Edward’s lips. Edward slowly closed the distance between them.

Edward moved his right hand to the back of Thompson’s head, running his fingers through chestnut hair while his other hand stayed cradling his jawline.

Thompson wrapped his arms around the other man’s torso. When the kiss was over, he shuddered and nuzzled into Edward’s neck, taking in the scent of him once again. He didn’t think he’d ever get tired of it. Edward kept stroking his hair.

“I might just die a’ happiness.” Thompson smiled

“Please don’t.”

They both laughed.

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stacks-reviews · 7 years

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New Releases 10/3/17

Happy New Release Day!

In Books --The Name of the Wind 10th Anniversary Deluxe Edition by Patrick Rothfuss “My name is Kvothe. I have stolen princesses back from sleeping barrow kings. I burned down the town of Trebon. I have spent the night with Felurian and left with both my sanity and my life. I was expelled from the University at a younger age than most people are allowed in. I tread paths by moonlight that others fear to speak of during day. I have talked to Gods, loved women, and written songs that would make the minstrels weep. You may have heard of me. So begins a tale unequaled in fantasy literature - the story of a hero told in his own voice. It is a tale of sorrow, a tale of survival, a tale of one man’s search for meaning in his universe, and how that search, and the indomitable will that drove it, gave birth to a legend.”

This book more than likely did not require me to provide a description. But I just love the description so much that I just had to put it up. This is my current top favorite book. I really love it and I am very excited to see an anniversary edition for it. I have been wanting to retire my mass market paperback for a while. I did get to meet Pat at a book signing a few years back and got that copy signed, as well as my copy of The Wise Man’s Fear, and my hardcover of A Slow Regard of Silent Things. I’ve been wanting to retire these signed copies so that nothing happens to them so this anniversary edition is just what I’ve been waiting for. At least until I can meet him again and get this one signed.

This edition has a new cover by designer Paul Buckley and artist Sam Weber. I’m not crazy about the cover. I prefer the standard cover used now. I’m having some trouble trying to understand just what all the images represent in the story so that’s what is really making me not like it as much. There is also some never before seen illustrations by artist Dan Dos Santos. Nate Taylor created a updated and detailed map of the world. An appendix of the calendar system, the currencies, and a pronunciation guide was added. And Pat wrote a new author’s note for this edition.

As of this writing (around 10:30pm Monday) it has not arrived at any of the bookstores near me but I have seen where it it out at other locations. I’m hoping it will arrive near me sometime today. Then I guess I’ll have to plan a fourth (or maybe a fifth. I don’t remember) reread of it soon.

--Anime Supremacy! by Mizuki Tsujimura “Japanese animation - the globally acclaimed, family-friendly theatrical features are the exception rather than the rule for a TV-oriented industry that has been pushed into late-night slots in an era of fragmented audiences. When only three titles among fifty might turn a profit, topping the charts is hardly an overambitious aim. Yet as three women, a producer, a director, and an animator, survive in a business infamous for its murderous schedules, demoralizing compromises, and incorrigible men, moments of uplift emerge against all odds - and how. More than just a window into an entertainment niche, here’s a kickass ode to work.”

A new; though only volume, manga about the animation industry in Japan. It sounds like a good look into this industry and it follows three women as they try to make their way in an industry full of ‘incorrigible’ men. Which this might be the first manga to follow women in this industry. I’m not positive but I’m fairly sure most of the manga that has used this type of story has mainly followed men. I can think of maybe one or two that has some ladies but I can’t recall for sure.

--Assassination Classroom Volume 18 by Yusei Matsui “Nagisa and Karma travel to the International Space Station in hopes of learning the secret to saving Koro Sensei’s life. Meanwhile, Yanagisawa and the upstart Grim Reaper II train ever harder to assassinate him. Then, when academic setbacks lower the spirits of his students, Koro Sensei comes up with an ingenious - or perhaps idiotic - way to cheer them up. Next, Valentine’s Day arrives! Will any of the 3-E students or teachers find true love? And will the meddling and teasing of the others help or hinder Cupid’s arrow in finding its target...?”

I’m reading this volume right now. But in Volume 17 Nagisa and Karma faced off in their fight to determine if they should save or assassinate Koro Sensei. Nagisa won and they learned that information about Koro Sensei was on the ISS that could potentially help them save his life. It ended with Nagisa and Karma sneaking into a rocket prototype to retrieve said information. Which was handed over fairly easily in this volume. The part with Yanagisawa and the Grim Reaper were short which is for the best to keep us wondering what they will try to do to kill Koro Sensei. I last left off during the start of the Valentine’s Day chapters which I will finish sometime today.

--Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban Illustrated Edition by J.K. Rowling and illustrated by Jim Kay Finally! I love the illustrations in these editions and just how full and how many are used in them. PoA is my favorite of this series, mainly because of this is when we are introduced to Sirius (my favorite) and Lupin.

Though as the rest of these are released I start to wonder how much longer they will be released as a single volume. At some point; either for money or for the binding of the books, they will probably be split into volumes. For my bookshelf’s well-being, I hope that is not the case but it could happen.

--The Last Namsara by Kristen Ciccarelli “In the beginning, there was the Namsara: the child of sky and spirit, who carried love and laugher wherever he went. But where there is light, there must be dark - and so there was also the Iskari. The child of blood and moonlight. The destroyer. The death bringer. These are the legends that Asha, daughter of the king of Firgaard, has grown up hearing in hushed whispers, drawn to the forbidden figures of the past. But it isn’t until she becomes the fiercest, most feared dragon slayer in the land that she takes on the role of the next Iskari - a lonely destiny that leaves her feeling more like a weapon than a girl. Asha conquers each dragon and brings its head to the king, but no kill can free her from the shackles that await her at home: her betrothal to the cruel commandant, a man who holds the truth about her nature in his palm. When she’s offered the chance to gain her freedom in exchange for the life of the most powerful dragon in Firgaard, she finds that there may be more truth to the ancient stories than she ever could have expected. With the help of a secret friend - a slave boy from her betrothed’s household - Asha must shed the layers of her Iskari bondage and open her heart to love, light, and a truth that has been kept from her.”

I have a few questions regarding this book. Mainly revolving around the Namsara since it isn’t mention again in the description except in the beginning. Is Asha’s betrothed the only one who knows that she is the Iskari? If so, is she being blackmailed into marrying him? My theory right now is that by killing all these dragons it makes her the Iskari but since light and dark are two sides of the same coin, she has the possibility to turn into the Namsara. Cause I expect the legends to end up saying that it was the same person. It sounds like it could be pretty good. There’s dragons, fights with dragons (don’t kill dragons cause they are awesome), and the classic light vs dark.

--The Water Dragon’s Bride Volume 3 by Rei Toma “Unable to return home, Asahi grows into a lovely young woman. As a priestess, she must spend time with the water dragon god for a ritual every year, but because of her connection to the water dragon god’s power, someone kidnaps her! Will Asahi be able to escape unscathed?”

Such a cute and still surprisingly dark series. The first two volumes were kind of dark because her best friends; Subaru, mother tried to have her killed a few times. And the water dragon god didn’t care if she lived or died. He only really intervened when the other gods started annoying him.

This volume came out early where I live so I read it over the weekend. The volume was mostly about Asahi being kidnapped, then rescued by Subaru, which then started a war between her village and the one that kidnapped her. The water dragon god does sorta intervere and helps them out a little. But he slowly seems to be changing and might eventually develop feelings for Asahi. Which will interesting since Subaru obviously loves her and she him. Though she may not realize that herself yet.

--Yona of the Dawn Volume 8 by Mizuho Kusanagi “Jaeha, the Green Dragon, joins Yona’s party after their harrowing adventure together in Awa. Now the group must find the Yellow Dragon - the last dragon from the prophecy that Ik-su told Yona! Meanwhile, Su-won visits Chishin Palace and tells General Geun-tae, chief of the Earth Tribe, that he should hold a mock battle and festival. But what could be the true intent behind Su-won’s proposition?”

I think the last volume I read was six. Seven never came in near where I live and I haven’t been able to order it. Last I read was Yona and Yoon got themselves onto the pirates boat so that they could try and send a signal for the others to attack the right boat.

I can’t wait to see what the Yellow Dragon is like and I’m interested to see what this mock battle will be about.

In Movies --Revolutionary Girl Utena Set 1 (Blu-Ray) “‘Never lose that strength or nobility, even when you grow up.’ When Utena was just a child and in the depths of sorrow, she found salvation in those words. They were the words of a prince, who wrapped her in his rose-scented embrace and bestowed upon her both a ring and the promise that it would lead her to him again. She never forgot the encounter. In fact, she was so impressed that she aspired to like the prince and also help those in need. Now a spirited teenager, Utena attends the prestigious Ohtori Academy. However, her strong sense of chivalry soon places her at odds with the school’s student council and thrusts her into a series of mysterious and dangerous duels against its members.”

For the first time the hit anime is being released on blu-ray. I have only seen the series and the movie once. One of my friends can explain it a lot better than I can. The next time I watch it I will not be putting so much time in between each season. There is a lot of symbolism throughout the show so it can be easy to forget or miss something. It is a really good show and worth checking out. The manga of the same name (by Chiho Saito) that it was based on is also available in an awesome box set that was released by Shojo Beat.

This set contains the first twelve episodes. Set two is not street dated until 11/7/17 but is now available on Rightstuf. Set three is set for 12/5/17, might also be out before that day but not at this moment of writing, and includes the movie. There is also a box set coming out on 12/5/17 that contains the complete series, the movie, a replica Rose Crest Ring, a replica Black Rose ring, and a 264 page art book with sliver foil numbering.

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ftmthor · 5 years

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Spider-Man Far From Home Review, Ratings and Discussion: Best MCU Movie So Far?

Spider-Man: Far From Home is the latest movie in the Spider-Man franchise of films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This will be Spider-Man’s fifth appearance in the MCU but only his second standalone movie.

[This post contains video, click to play]

While we saw him in the streets of New York in the first movie, this time, we would see his adventures in London! Many are awaiting the reviews and ratings of the movie – so let us take a closer look at it without any further ado!

Image Digital Spy

Spider-Man: Far From Home Reviews

Some of the top reviewers around the world have already seen the movie in special screenings held for them. Pretty much everyone who has seen the movie has appreciated it so far! Here’s a look at what the reviewers are talking about:

GameSpot: “The parts that work, work very, very well. But the parts that don’t tend to feel like stubbed toes or irritating splinters–not life-threatening by any means, but distracting at best and annoying at worst; like someone pulled the curtain back on the MCU’s systemic shortcomings a little too far. Still, if you can ignore that–and it’ll be easier for some than it is for others, depending on your relationship to the MCU at large–you’re in for a pretty good ride.”

Image We Got This Covered

ComicBook: “It doesn’t seem like we’re swinging to any crazy conclusions in calling Spider-Man: Far From Home the best Spider-Man movie ever. Top to bottom, it is a complete moviegoing experience. It is thrilling, it is fun, it is unpredictable, and it is full of heart. Spider-Man: Far From Home is by far a home run.”

EntertainmentTonight: “Far From Home sticks the landing, and that might be the most important thing it needed to do after an utter behemoth like Endgame. The fallout from that movie feels effortlessly worked into the fabric of the universe by the time the end credits roll here, opening Marvel’s saga up to a new beginning. And then the post-credits scenes change everything.”

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Spider-Man: Far From Home Discussions

While different reviewers have had different things to say about this movie, what has really been the one common factor in all the reviews pertaining to Spider-Man’s latest cinematic adventures is the fact that it carries forward the storylines of not only the first Spider-Man movie ‘Homecoming’, but also of the fourth Avengers movie ‘Endgame’.

Image WallpaperSite

This is just the perfect way for Marvel to segue the MCU into a newer universe where some of the older characters have been written off. Furthermore, the chemistry between Jake Gyllenhaal (who plays Mysterio in the movie) and Tom Holland (Peter Parker/Spider-Man) has been really appreciated by the viewers. There’s also a huge buzz about the end-credits scene.

I’m gonna make two bold statements here:

Spider-Man: Far From Home is the best live action Spider-Man movie ever made, beating Spider-Man 2 after 15 years.

It also has without a doubt the greatest end credits scene in recorded human history.

WOW. #SpiderManFarFromHome

— Shaurya Chawla (@_ShauryaChawla) June 27, 2019

Spider-Man: Far From Home reminded me once again why Spider-Man is my favorite superhero. A great post-Endgame film that builds off MCU history and dramatically sets up an exciting new status quo. You will be cheering at the end. And Tom Holland is still the best Spider-Man.

— Adam Lance Garcia (@AdamLanceGarcia) June 27, 2019

SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME finds Marvel taking the most storytelling risks since Iron Man 3. Set in a post Tony Stark world it’s erratic, thrilling & exciting. Tom Holland is the best Spider-Man ever & his chemistry with Zendaya is awkwardly perfect. Jake Gyllenhaal is Mysterio-us

— Matt Neglia (@NextBestPicture) June 27, 2019

SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME: They’re getting almost too good at these movies. Gyllenhaal remains undefeated. Mysterio, drown me in your fishbowl helmet.

— Sean Fennessey (@SeanFennessey) June 27, 2019

Spider-Man: Far From Home is Sony/Marvel’s most ambitious venture yet.

We finally start to see Peter Parker get tested & put out of his comfort zone. While still dealing w/ the Endgame fallout,the Spider-cast from the comics are full frontal & give a perfect teenage love story. pic.twitter.com/4r5BNr35cu

— Akasan (@akasan) June 28, 2019

Spider-Man: Far From Home Ratings

The ratings for the latest Spider-Man movie are out!

Rotten Tomatoes: 91% Fresh

IMDB: 8.4/10

Both these reviews are pretty solid for a superhero film and most critics have pointed out that the movie is really good! It is indeed something that has gotten us pretty excited about it.

Image GamesRadar

Spider-Man: Far From Home Release Date

The latest movie in the MCU hits the screens on the 2nd of July in the US. The timing for this release is just perfect as the 4th of July weekend is approaching! This is going to help boost the ticket sales for the movie as well as give the fans something that they will indeed be looking forward to during the holiday weekend.

Furthermore, if Spider-Man wasn’t enough for you, you can also watch Stranger Things Season 3 which will be released on Netflix on the 4th of July. An exciting week approaches! Are you ready?

The post Spider-Man Far From Home Review, Ratings and Discussion: Best MCU Movie So Far? appeared first on Hiptoro.

source https://www.hiptoro.com/p/spider-man-far-from-home-review-rating-and-discussion/ source https://emmaleebruce.tumblr.com/post/185934824565

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hildaagular · 5 years

Text

Spider-Man Far From Home Review, Ratings and Discussion: Best MCU Movie So Far?

[This post contains video, click to play]

Image Digital Spy

Spider-Man: Far From Home Reviews

Image We Got This Covered

youtube

Spider-Man: Far From Home Discussions

Image WallpaperSite

I’m gonna make two bold statements here:

Spider-Man: Far From Home is the best live action Spider-Man movie ever made, beating Spider-Man 2 after 15 years.

It also has without a doubt the greatest end credits scene in recorded human history.

WOW. #SpiderManFarFromHome

— Shaurya Chawla (@_ShauryaChawla) June 27, 2019

— Adam Lance Garcia (@AdamLanceGarcia) June 27, 2019

— Matt Neglia (@NextBestPicture) June 27, 2019

SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME: They’re getting almost too good at these movies. Gyllenhaal remains undefeated. Mysterio, drown me in your fishbowl helmet.

— Sean Fennessey (@SeanFennessey) June 27, 2019

Spider-Man: Far From Home is Sony/Marvel’s most ambitious venture yet.

— Akasan (@akasan) June 28, 2019

Spider-Man: Far From Home Ratings

The ratings for the latest Spider-Man movie are out!

Rotten Tomatoes: 91% Fresh

IMDB: 8.4/10

Both these reviews are pretty solid for a superhero film and most critics have pointed out that the movie is really good! It is indeed something that has gotten us pretty excited about it.

Image GamesRadar

Spider-Man: Far From Home Release Date

Furthermore, if Spider-Man wasn’t enough for you, you can also watch Stranger Things Season 3 which will be released on Netflix on the 4th of July. An exciting week approaches! Are you ready?

The post Spider-Man Far From Home Review, Ratings and Discussion: Best MCU Movie So Far? appeared first on Hiptoro.

Spider-Man Far From Home Review, Ratings and Discussion: Best MCU Movie So Far? published first on http://www.hiptoro.com/ Spider-Man Far From Home Review, Ratings and Discussion: Best MCU Movie So Far? posted first on http://www.hiptoro.com/

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claytoncoughlan · 5 years

Text

Spider-Man Far From Home Review, Ratings and Discussion: Best MCU Movie So Far?

[This post contains video, click to play]

Image Digital Spy

Spider-Man: Far From Home Reviews

Image We Got This Covered

youtube

Spider-Man: Far From Home Discussions

Image WallpaperSite

I’m gonna make two bold statements here:

Spider-Man: Far From Home is the best live action Spider-Man movie ever made, beating Spider-Man 2 after 15 years.

It also has without a doubt the greatest end credits scene in recorded human history.

WOW. #SpiderManFarFromHome

— Shaurya Chawla (@_ShauryaChawla) June 27, 2019

— Adam Lance Garcia (@AdamLanceGarcia) June 27, 2019

— Matt Neglia (@NextBestPicture) June 27, 2019

SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME: They’re getting almost too good at these movies. Gyllenhaal remains undefeated. Mysterio, drown me in your fishbowl helmet.

— Sean Fennessey (@SeanFennessey) June 27, 2019

Spider-Man: Far From Home is Sony/Marvel’s most ambitious venture yet.

— Akasan (@akasan) June 28, 2019

Spider-Man: Far From Home Ratings

The ratings for the latest Spider-Man movie are out!

Rotten Tomatoes: 91% Fresh

IMDB: 8.4/10

Both these reviews are pretty solid for a superhero film and most critics have pointed out that the movie is really good! It is indeed something that has gotten us pretty excited about it.

Image GamesRadar

Spider-Man: Far From Home Release Date

Furthermore, if Spider-Man wasn’t enough for you, you can also watch Stranger Things Season 3 which will be released on Netflix on the 4th of July. An exciting week approaches! Are you ready?

The post Spider-Man Far From Home Review, Ratings and Discussion: Best MCU Movie So Far? appeared first on Hiptoro.

0 notes

davidferrer89 · 5 years

Text

Spider-Man Far From Home Review, Ratings and Discussion: Best MCU Movie So Far?

[This post contains video, click to play]

Image Digital Spy

Spider-Man: Far From Home Reviews

Image We Got This Covered

youtube

Spider-Man: Far From Home Discussions

Image WallpaperSite

I’m gonna make two bold statements here:

Spider-Man: Far From Home is the best live action Spider-Man movie ever made, beating Spider-Man 2 after 15 years.

It also has without a doubt the greatest end credits scene in recorded human history.

WOW. #SpiderManFarFromHome

— Shaurya Chawla (@_ShauryaChawla) June 27, 2019

— Adam Lance Garcia (@AdamLanceGarcia) June 27, 2019

— Matt Neglia (@NextBestPicture) June 27, 2019

SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME: They’re getting almost too good at these movies. Gyllenhaal remains undefeated. Mysterio, drown me in your fishbowl helmet.

— Sean Fennessey (@SeanFennessey) June 27, 2019

Spider-Man: Far From Home is Sony/Marvel’s most ambitious venture yet.

— Akasan (@akasan) June 28, 2019

Spider-Man: Far From Home Ratings

The ratings for the latest Spider-Man movie are out!

Rotten Tomatoes: 91% Fresh

IMDB: 8.4/10

Both these reviews are pretty solid for a superhero film and most critics have pointed out that the movie is really good! It is indeed something that has gotten us pretty excited about it.

Image GamesRadar

Spider-Man: Far From Home Release Date

Furthermore, if Spider-Man wasn’t enough for you, you can also watch Stranger Things Season 3 which will be released on Netflix on the 4th of July. An exciting week approaches! Are you ready?

The post Spider-Man Far From Home Review, Ratings and Discussion: Best MCU Movie So Far? appeared first on Hiptoro.

from Hiptoro https://www.hiptoro.com/p/spider-man-far-from-home-review-rating-and-discussion/ from Hiptoro Raging News https://hiptororaging.tumblr.com/post/185932852510

0 notes

anawiliams · 5 years

Text

Spider-Man Far From Home Review, Ratings and Discussion: Best MCU Movie So Far?

[This post contains video, click to play]

Image Digital Spy

Spider-Man: Far From Home Reviews

Image We Got This Covered

youtube

Spider-Man: Far From Home Discussions

Image WallpaperSite

I’m gonna make two bold statements here:

Spider-Man: Far From Home is the best live action Spider-Man movie ever made, beating Spider-Man 2 after 15 years.

It also has without a doubt the greatest end credits scene in recorded human history.

WOW. #SpiderManFarFromHome

— Shaurya Chawla (@_ShauryaChawla) June 27, 2019

— Adam Lance Garcia (@AdamLanceGarcia) June 27, 2019

— Matt Neglia (@NextBestPicture) June 27, 2019

SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME: They’re getting almost too good at these movies. Gyllenhaal remains undefeated. Mysterio, drown me in your fishbowl helmet.

— Sean Fennessey (@SeanFennessey) June 27, 2019

Spider-Man: Far From Home is Sony/Marvel’s most ambitious venture yet.

— Akasan (@akasan) June 28, 2019

Spider-Man: Far From Home Ratings

The ratings for the latest Spider-Man movie are out!

Rotten Tomatoes: 91% Fresh

IMDB: 8.4/10

Both these reviews are pretty solid for a superhero film and most critics have pointed out that the movie is really good! It is indeed something that has gotten us pretty excited about it.

Image GamesRadar

Spider-Man: Far From Home Release Date

Furthermore, if Spider-Man wasn’t enough for you, you can also watch Stranger Things Season 3 which will be released on Netflix on the 4th of July. An exciting week approaches! Are you ready?

The post Spider-Man Far From Home Review, Ratings and Discussion: Best MCU Movie So Far? appeared first on Hiptoro.

Spider-Man Far From Home Review, Ratings and Discussion: Best MCU Movie So Far? published first on http://www.hiptoro.com/

0 notes

helenpattersoon · 5 years

Text

46 gifts for designers, artists & creatives

There are two types of people in the world: those who treat gift shopping like an Olympic sport, and those who keep a stockpile of gift cards in their desk drawer for every occasion. In the spirit the holidays, we’ll keep it real with you guys. While we take no issue with gift cards (well played TBH), there’s nothing quite like a present that comes from the heart.

At 99designs, not only do we know a thing or two about creativity—we also fancy ourselves the first kind of person. (And boy, do we love a Santa’s helper cosplay.) We asked our designer community, our friends and your favorite creators-in-the-wild to give us all their gift ideas. From that, we curated this ultimate gift guide just for you.

This puppy is loaded with cool things—from unique stocking stuffers to experiential gifts and even furniture(!). It’s big. It’s grand. It’s a little extra, if we do say so ourselves. But you’d be hard-pressed to find a better one out there.

On your marks, get ready, get set…

Let’s gift!

—

1. Adventure Awaits print

Adventure awaits those who seek it, via Furry Little Peach.

Up first is the “Adventure Awaits” print by Furry Little Peach, who you might recognize from Instagram or her inspiring Youtube channel. This A3 beauty has been created using archival ink on 100% cotton paper, meaning it won’t fade or wear over time.

Combine this with a nice frame, and you’ve got a museum-quality gift that will impress anyone.

$65 AUD at Furrylittlepeach.com

via Amazon

2. The Working Mind and Drawing Hand

FLP also recommends a book she just received and loves: The Working Mind and Drawing Hand by Oliver Jeffers. This book contains never-before-published illustrations and art from Jeffers’ own sketchbook.

$34.43 at Amazon.com

Recommended by: Furry Little Peach

Sha’an d’Anthes is Furry Little Peach–an illustrator, exhibiting artist and published author.

3. Fancy-ish luggage

youtube

Sometimes a utilitarian gift is the best kind of gift, and this bag comes highly recommended for a reason. It allows you to charge multiple devices and keeps your things safe with a built-in lock. Take it with you to your next creative conference, to meetings, wherever. What could be better for a digital nomad designer?

$99 at Brookstone.com

Everyone loves to upskill, via Superhi.

4. Learn to code with Superhi

Teach a man to fish and yada yada.It’s empowering to learn something new. Superhi offers a plethora of beginner coding courses all aimed at teaching designers how to build their own beautiful websites from scratch.

$149 at Superhi.com

Watch the sunrise from the comfort of your workspace, via GUR.

5. Sunrise rug

GUR rugs are all handmade using raw, recyclable materials and traditional methods. We’re particularly fond of this one by Chan Wai Hon, whose design really highlights the weaving technique and makes us feel calm.

€100 at Rubygur.com

via Counter-Print

6. Global graphic design

We’re constantly inspired by our global community, and top designer Edwin Cappalla is, too. He recommends this set of 3 paperbacks by Counter-Print, which offer endless inspiration in the form of packaging, posters and signage from Eastern Europe, Scandinavia and Japan.

£20 at Counter-print.co.uk

7. Logo Design Love

via WATC

Case studies, sketches, tips, oh my! You won’t find a more perfect gift for a logo-obsessed designer.

$26.35 at Amazon.com

Recommended by: 99designs top designer C A P S

For examples of work by C A P S, visit his 99designs profile.

8. CMYK tattoos

Don’t freak, moms. It’s just temporary. via Tattly

5 bucks gets you a set of 2 temporary tattoos for the needle-phobic print enthusiast in your life. Heck, splurge a little and grab the RGB set, while you’re at it.

$5 at Tattly.com

9. Houtique chair and lamp set

Lilly Friedeberg is something of a wunderkind. Known for creating funky, colorful illustrations, she recently made her way into the agency world and founded her own studio for branding, packaging and photography. On her wishlist? An ultra-cool chair and lamp from Houtique.

Price upon request at Houtique

Recommended by: Lilly Friedeberg

Lilly is a designer and art director based in Düsseldorf, focussing on branding, illustration packaging and set design.

Did someone say fine blown glass and elegant brass ball chain? via Coming Soon New York.

10. Nordic glass ornaments

We know what you’re thinking: ornaments for the holidays. Really? But hear us out: these ultra-sleek hangables are designed by AYTM, and they’re nice enough to have on display all year round. Put them on a shelf. Hang them in your window! The possibilities are endless.

$20 at Comingsoonnewyork.com

11. Gradient puzzle

The stuff of nightmares, or best gift ever? You decide. via Areaware.

Will completing this puzzle take over your designer friends’ lives? Maybe. Will it be meditative? No promises. But this glossy and glorious gift sure looks pretty when it’s finished.

$20 on Areaware.com

Say it not-so-subtly. via Anthony Burrill.

12. Think of Your Own Ideas poster

Anthony Burrill is a graphic designer perhaps best known for his “Work Hard and Be Nice to People” poster. But that’s so 2004. Spice up a pal’s space with a lesser-known (but just as cheeky) print.

£50.00 + shipping at Anthonyburrill.com

via Apple

13. iPad Pro

The new iPad topped lots of top designers’ lists, including IsaDesignNet, Maneka and Ian_Douglas. The Futur’s Chris Do also recommends it as the “ultimate creator’s tool”.

And there’s a lot to love. In addition to having the best display yet, Adobe will release Photoshop for the iPad in 2019. We can’t wait to see how it performs.

iPad pro: From $799 at Apple.com

14. Apple Pencil

If you give a designer a new iPad, they’re going to ask for the Apple Pencil. With the newest model for the iPad Pro, you can pair and charge it wirelessly, increase your pressure to draw a thicker line—and even shade with a simple tilt of the wrist.

Apple Pencil: $99 at Apple.com

Recommended by: Chris Do

Chris is an Emmy award-winning director, designer, strategist and educator. He’s the Chief Strategist and CEO of Blind, executive producer of The Skool and founder of The Futur–and online education platform that teaches the business of design to creative thinkers.

Sometimes it’s that simple. via Austin Kleon.

15. Show Your Work

You’ve heard of Steal Like an Artist, but Austin Kleon’s second book takes it to the next level. (It also comes highly recommended from creative director Greg Gunn.)

It’s message is simple: share. Share what you do and how you do it with the world.

– @grgnn

$22.33 at Amazon.com

Small enough to go anywhere, big enough for your ideas. via Baron Fig.

16. Baron Fig Notebook

Greg also loves Baron Fig notebooks, and rarely leaves the house without one.

$18 at Baronfig.com

Recommended by: Greg Gunn

Greg is a creative entrepreneur, visual storyteller and an award-winning animation director. As Chief Creative Officer of The Futur, Greg oversees the marketing of educational produts, guides content development and helps drive the creative direction for the brand.

17. Peak Design’s tech pouch

Origami-inspired organization, via Peak Design.

This powerful little pouch was successfully funded on Kickstarter and starts shipping in December: just in time for the holidays.

$59.95 at Peakdesign.com

Recommended by: Ben Burns

Ben is a brand strategist, an award-winning designer, entrepreneur and loving father of (soon to be) two daughters. As the Chief Operating Officer of The Futur, Ben oversees the development, marketing and logistics of educational products.

Perfect for defining your creative brand, via Condor Business Solutions.

18. The Win Without Pitching Manifesto

This black book comes recommended with praise from Matthew Encina, who says, “it changed my life as a creative professional.” Let this book’s twelve proclamations inspire you.

$22.50 at Amazon.com

Recommended by: Matthew Encina

Matthew Encina is the award-winning Chief Content Officer at The Futur. His clients include Fortune 500 brands, music artists, emerging tech companies and video games.

19. Muji slippers

Stay cozy, my friends. via Muji.

A sweet pair of slippers is always a winner. Make it cooler by sourcing a minimalist linen pair from designer-mecca Muji.

$24 at Muji.us

Fancy pillows for fancy people. via Print All Over Me.

20. Blue Bones pillow

IK blue accessories will never go out of style. This pillow features a print by design duo Mogollon, a power couple whose work has been featured on the facade of a Seoul mall, a Katy Perry album and Vogue Japan. We’re fans.

$62 at Paom.com

21. Tilt Brush by Google

youtube

Have you ever wanted to 3D paint in space? Um, yeah! You’ll need an HTC Vive, Oculus Rift or a Windows Mixed Reality headset to use it, but even then it’s such a steal–and it’s also #1 on artist Coco Morton’s list.

$22.95 at Steampowered.com

It’s a bird, it’s a plane. via Amazon.

22. Superhero Bookend

Since you’re loading up on design books, why not throw in a superhero bookend to complete the gift?

$25.95 at Amazon.com

Recommended by: Coco Morton

Coco is a visual artist and designer support admin at 99designs. She describes herself as a doodler and a dreamer, and we just love that.

23. Binary screenprint

via Simply Creative.

Spanish designer Alex Trochut is best known for his incredible typographic work, but check out his binary prints. Duality is the theme here–turn off the lights and the darkness reveals a hidden image. Each print is signed by the artist.

From $100 at Binary-prints.com

Give the gift of a funky fridge. via Areaware.

24. Stick-up sticks

Like chalks from your childhood, these magnets by design studio Bower are just s’cute. Cut at various angles, they point in different directions when attached to a metal surface. Snag them in both natural and multi colorways.

$8 at Areaware.com

Dogs dogs dogs dogs dogs! via Scribe Publications.

25. (Definitely) the Best Dogs of All Time

This hardcover book features stories of powerful, mythical, heroic, talented and literary dogs who have changed the course of history. Plus, sweet illustrations by designer Molly Dyson.

$18 at Amazon.com

Instant cameras are always a hit, via Outdoor Photo.

26. Leica Sofort camera

The recipient of this small but mighty camera will be the life of any party. And, it comes in two of the trendiest colors of the year: baby blue and orange.

$279 at Leicacamerausa.com

Recommended by: 99designs top designer Minji Moon

Minji is a freelance designer from Seoul, Korea. She specializes in illustration and motion graphics and counts Samsung, Cadillac and Adobe among her client roster.

via LOQI

27. LOQI artist bags

Water resistant, long-lasting and artistic AF. Pick up an environmentally-friendly LOQI artist bag for your very own Haring, Van Gogh or Pollock.

$12.95 at Loqistore.com

28. Liquitex muted collection

Liquitex Inks are extremely fluid, water resistant, permanent and so lightfast they’ll go down in history. You can water the ink down, stamp it, or use it seamlessly with any other Liquitex product.

Find a retailer

I think I’ve replaced about 5 or 6 bottles in total since I started collecting them–so they’re worth the long term investment!

Recommended by: 99designs top designer Ink’d

For examples of work by Ink’d, visit their 99designs profile.

Should you or shouldn’t you? Consult the chart. via Molly McLeod.

29. Side project flowchart

Find ordering prints a hassle? Hate unrolling them when they arrive? Then do we have the gift for you. This is a high-resolution digital download good for two 11×17 copies of this poster.

$5 at Mollymcleod.com

via Macstories

30. Luna Display

Jocelyn Tsaih is an artist and illustrator whose work has been everywhere these days–from WeWork’s halls to the pages of the New York Times–she’s even been commissioned by Facebook and Airbnb.

This year, she’s hoping for a Luna Display: a powerful little device that turns your iPad into a second monitor.

$79.99 at Lunadisplay.com

Paint the rainbow. via Amazon.

31. Posca paint markers

Also on Jocelyn’s list: 29 Uni Posca paint markers. These puppies are water-based, non-toxic and don’t bleed.

Posca Markers are amazing to use and having all the different colors would mean endless drawing possibilities!

$47.26 at Amazon.com

Recommended by: Jocelyn Tsaih

Jocelyn is a visual artist and egg-lover based in Oakland, California.

Let’s snuggle. via TicTail.

32. In Pieces throw blanket

We’re also fans of Jocelyn’s venture into fiber arts. Pick up a one-of-a-kind throw for chilly nights, in navy & natural or pink & navy.

$130 at Jocelyntsaihstore.tictail.com

Knowledge is priceless. via Creative Live.

33. Creative Live class

Lisa Congdon (yes, THE Lisa Congdon) teaches your creative buds how to get organized and get to work in this popular Creative Live course.

$49 at Creativelive.com

34. Ultra wide monitor

For someone you REALLY love. via LG.

Not for the faint of heart! Design-pro Pixel & Bracket suggests this curved monitor from LG. He says, “I’m moving away from dual monitor setups and really like the ultra wide monitors instead. With one widescreen, creative apps can be scaled or placed right next to each other.”

$896.99 at Amazon.com

You get a port, and you get a port, and you get a port! via Amazon.

35. VAVA 8-in-1 adapter

At a slightly lower price-point, Pixel & Bracket recommends this VAVA 8-in-1 adapter.

He says, “For those of us MacBook Pro users, this hub is the best one I’ve come across (and use). It has everything you need in it!”

$59.99 at Amazon.com

Recommended by: Pixel & Bracket

Pixel & Bracket (aka Spencer) is a multimedia designer from Indianapolis, Indiana. He posts design tutorials to help educate and inspire others.

You can run from the typography police, but they’ll find you. via Hoefler&Co.

36. Typographic Ticket Book

When we first saw this gift pop up on Fast Company, we knew we had to include it. Each ticket lists 32 common design infractions, each assigned its own appropriate penalty. Typeset in Helvetica, of course, it’s perfect for the designer who loves rules.

$10 at Designshop.typography.com

Two icons for the price of one. via Connox.

37. Bauhaus mobile

Bauhaus fans rejoice: now anyone can own a piece of design history–and color theory–with a hanging mobile designed by Ole Flensted.

$47.90 at Connox.com

Insights and inspiration for anyone who makes art. via Design Milk.

38. Things Are What You Make of Them

You must know by now that we have a huge crush on Adam J. Kurtz. He’s a Brooklyn-based designer, artist and author who offers advice and realness over 13 handwritten chapters. Bonus: perforated pages mean you can tear out the wisdom you love the most and display the pages wherever you please.

$11.91 at Amazon.com

Awwww, can we keep it? via Eva Stalinski.

39. Spray bottle enamel pin

Do you have a friend who loves clean design? Then this little enamel cutie is perfect for them.

$8 at Evastalinski.com

An illustrators’ staple. via Courts.

40. Wacom Intuos M

99designs designer AZ-Designs just purchased himself a new Wacom Intuos to take his work to the next level.

$299.95 at Amazon.com

Recommended by: Top level designer AZ-Designs

For examples of work by AZ-Designs, visit his 99designs profile.

41. Tie-dye cube soaps

Soaps so cute you’ll never use them. via Decovry.

Anna Niestroj is an entrepreneur, designer, pattern-maker, trend researcher and the face of Studio Blinkblink–a former Berlin institution and what was once the coziest and most creative space in the Wedding neighborhood. Recently she packed up Blinkblink and relocated to Jüterbog to dream up her next venture in a former police headquarters.

On her holiday wishlist? Organic, tie-dye soaps infused with detoxifying ingredients that she discovered in Paris. And don’t they look so cool?

$20 – $44 at Mote.kr

Perfect for the groovy artist. via Brusho.

42. Brusho Crystal Colors

Anna also recommends Brusho’s Crystal Colors in bold hues. Drop them in water and watch the colors fly.

These pigments make you trip on paper, for real. It is so relaxing to watch the colors flow.

– @blinkblinkink

Leave one of these out for Santa. via Japan Centre.

43. Japanese sweets

As Anna says, “Anything from Japan is a good gift for a designer. Anything.” We think these sweet sesame pancake confections would make a great stocking stuffer.

£2.00 at Japancentre.com

Don’t you just love surprises? via Stack.

44. Stack magazine subscription

Finally, Anna recommends a subscription to Stack. Every month you’ll receive a different independent magazine, serving up endless inspiration for graphic designers, illustrators and artists alike.

From $15 at Stackmagazines.com

Recommended by: Anna Niestroj

Anna is the founder of Studio Blinkblink, an interdisciplinary creative studio.

45. Gingerbread mouse pad

This festive mouse pad is so sweet, you’ll keep it on your desk long after the holidays end. It features a candy cane and gingerbread pattern designed by the Disney-loving creative business-owner behind Katnipp Illustration. Love!

€9.58 at Etsy.com

46. How to Move to NYC ebook

All creatives dream of New York, right? via Letsgoto.nyc.

Featuring awesome illustrations from designer Lu Yu, this comprehensive guide by Tobias van Schneider is chock-full of practical tips for creatives wanting to relocate to the Big Apple–and even includes how to get a visa. It promises to save you time, money and nerves. Let us know if it works!

$29 at Letsgo.nyc

Enter our Instagram giveaway

—

See something you just have to have? You’re in luck! Follow the instructions to win a box of curated goodies—one for you, and one for a friend:

First, follow 99designs on Insta

Visit our gift guide post

Comment your favorite gift featured above

And don’t forget to tag a friend!

We’ll announce our winners on Friday, November 23rd.

Good luck, and happy gifting from 99designs.

Take me to Instagram!

Terms and conditions

The post 46 gifts for designers, artists & creatives appeared first on 99designs.

via https://99designs.co.uk/blog/

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festpop · 7 years

Text

Globally renowned Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Las Vegas is returning to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway on June 16, 17, and 18. More than 400,000 people from around the world will come together to celebrate life under the electric sky. EDC LV transforms the motor speedway into an all-encompassing experience featuring the world’s most notable names in electronic music. With high quality sound and visual production, energetic performers, and carnival rides EDC LV continually raises the bar for music festivals everywhere.

When you first walk down the steps of the Motor Speedway you finally realize how massive EDC truly is. There is a reason people freeze and take a moment to snap multiple pictures of the view. Eventually the excitement overcomes your desire to take pictures and you can’t help but run down the stairs and into the world that is EDC LV.

Pasquale Announces 8th Stage for 2017

EDC LV has been home to 7 different stages, each with its own distinct production and musical styles featuring the biggest names in electronic music. Pasquale Rotella, founder and CEO of Insomniac, has announced a new addition to that family. Dreamstate, Insomniac’s dedicated trance brand, will present quantumVALLEY. For three days, legendary trance artists from around the world will take over the massive structure for the largest stand-alone Dreamstate audience to date. You can preview the powerful energy that awaits at quantumVALLEY Here.

EDC LV circuitGROUNDS 2016

Since the brands introduction in 2015, Dreamstate has traveled to six cities in four countries, proving trance isn’t dead. Last year, Dreamstate brought a monumental crowd of trance lovers to the circuitGROUNDS stage in Las Vegas. Iconic artists including Payl Oakenfold, Ferry Corsten, Paul van Dyk, Markus Schulz, and Aly & Fila were featured at circuitGROUNDS last year. Previous Dreamstate stage designs have raised the bar for festival production. Top of the line lasers and an immersive audio environment is something you can expect at quantumVALLEY.

Egyptian Design to take over wasteLAND

For those of you who prefer a harder style of music, have no fear. Insomniac has also announced that the iconic wasteLAND stage is set to return for 2017. Basscon, Insomniac’s illustrious hardstyle brand, will introduce headliners to a new scenic destination and theme. This year a massive rendition of the highly anticipated Egyptian design from Wastland’s 3rd annual SoCal show is coming to Vegas.

Last year wasteLAND featured hard hitters Brennan Heart, Angerfist, DJ Isaac, Da Tweekaz, Coone, and many others on the San Francisco themed stage. Towering over the crowd was a 250-foot wide by 73-foot tall design of the Golden Gate Bridge. For the first time ever wasteLAND synched the hardstyle sounds to the brilliant firework display above the festival. In my opinion, wasteLAND has always been the most unique and innovative stage at EDC LV. From the sounds to the onslaught of shuffling, the dust never settles in the wasteland, bring a bandana.

Whether you prefer to get lost in trance or stomp to hardstyle, EDC will have a stage for you. Themes for the remaining stages have yet to be announce but you can be sure that they will take your breath away. As a former headliner I strongly recommend seeing a set at each stage. While some of the music might not be what you are used to, the production value alone deserves attention. Each stage has something unique for you to appreciate from the production to the people. Try to find one artist that you would like to see at each stage and mark it on your itinerary.

EDC LV- The Experience

The EDC experience begins long before you step foot in the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The months leading up to this life altering experience are filled with so much excitement as you put together costumes, book your flight and hotel, and plan your attack once the lineup is released. The first time I went to EDC Las Vegas was in 2015 and it was everything I dreamt it would be.

When we landed in Las Vegas we were officially in festival weekend hype-drive. We dropped our bags off at the hotel, quickly changed into our swimsuits, and walked to the Hard Rock for the Bassrush Pool Party. If you have the chance to go to a pool party I would strongly recommend it. Nothing beats a pool full of intoxicated adults splashing around to drum & bass with large sippy cups in hand.

From pool parties to nightclubs you won’t rest during EDC Week

FestPop Staff Writer Rashae pictured at EDC LV 2015

After a power nap and a quick meal we rallied for our favorite artist, Porter Robinson. It was disappointing when he wasn’t listed on the EDC lineup but seeing him at the Marquee Nightclub was worth it. Marquee was packed wall to wall with music lovers that truly understood EDM culture. One of my favorite memories from this show, other than Porter Robinson’s epic set, was the instant connection I formed with a complete stranger from Texas. He noticed that I, a petite 5’2″ female, wasn’t able to see Porter. He helped guide me to a spot where I could see and even stood near me in the off chance that I got pushed off the ledge. This is the perfect example of EDM culture and the Electric Daisy Carnival community. Individual artists will perform all over Las Vegas for EDC week.

I witnessed amazing performances that I will never forget. Some of my favorite sets were Flume, Alison Wonderland, Adventure Club, Flux Pavilion, Sigma, Pretty Lights, Keys N’ Krates, and Wilkinson. Many of the acts had their own customized visuals to fill the screens behind them. Not only do custom visuals add to the experience and the music, but it makes it feel like you’re watching an artist’s actual tour production. Although the official lineup for 2017 hasn’t been released you can be sure the biggest names will be there.

You Are The Headliner

EDC was a life altering weekend for me and so many other headliners around the world. Pasquale Rotella and Insomniac go above and beyond to create an amazing experience for all who attend. As one of the largest multiday festivals in North America EDC sets the bar for every music festival in the U.S.

For more information

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Some Tips and Tricks from a Former Headliner:

Make sure your designated meeting spots aren’t mobile, aka “Art Cars”

Walking a mile to your destination is a breeze in Oregon. Walking a mile in Las Vegas, NV in June- not so much.

Always drink a glass of water before leaving an air conditioned location

There’s nothing better than having Panda Express waiting in your hotel room after a long night at EDC. Order the extra-large dinner plate so you can have dinner and leftovers at 7 a.m.

Experience every stage for at least one set

Totems can be helpful in the off chance you get separated from your rave fam, but even more effective… leash backpacks :)

Protect your ears. No one will judge you for wearing earplugs.

Don’t be afraid to separate yourself from your friends if you want to see an artist that they don’t. You are in control of your EDC experience.

Take pictures. I was so engulfed in the experience that I only took 40 pictures total from the whole weekend.

Be safe. The safety crew is there to help you.

Rashae Nicholas Staff Writer

EDC Las Vegas is Returning For 21st Anniversary June 16-18 Globally renowned Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Las Vegas is returning to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway on June 16, 17, and 18.

#EDC Las Vegas 2017 #Festival #las vegas #music festivals

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tuthillscopes-blog · 7 years

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Your Brief And Far-Out Guide To Afrofuturism

check it out @ https://tuthillscopes.com/your-brief-and-far-out-guide-to-afrofuturism/

Your Brief And Far-Out Guide To Afrofuturism

“Time is that this really fluid factor. Now’s now, however the past has become and also the future too.”&nbsp

This is the way curator and anthropologist Niama Safia Sandy describes the main concept of Afrofuturism, a cultural aesthetic mixing aspects of sci-fi, magical realism and African history.

The artistic, musical and literary movement is frequently tracked to jazz composer and cosmic philosopher Sun Ra, who, attending college within the 1930s, were built with a hallucinatory experience of that they was kidnapped, introduced to planet Saturn and proven a prophetic future.

“My entire body altered into another thing. I saw through myself. And That I increased … I wasn’t in human form … I arrived on the planet which i recognized as Saturn … they teleported i and me was lower on [a] stage together. They wanted to talk to me. They’d one little antenna on every ear. Just a little antenna over each eye. They spoken in my experience.Inch

However the actual term Afrofuturism was initially utilized by critic Mark Dery in the 1994 essay “Black towards the Future,”&nbspwhich examined why there have been so couple of black sci-fi authors at that time, because of the genre’s inextricable links to another and existence around the margins.

“Can a residential area whose past continues to be deliberately applied out, and whose powers have subsequently been consumed by the quest for legible traces of their history, imagine possible futures?” Dery asks within the text.&nbsp”In addition, isn&rsquot the unreal estate for the future already of the technocrats, futurologists, streamliners, and hang designers — white-colored to some man — who’ve engineered our collective fantasies?”

Underdog

Afrofuturism is frequently considered like a cultural genre or style, a re-imagining of African tradition that projects techno-advanced options. However for Sandy, the movement is greater than a literary genre — it’s real existence.&nbsp”It&rsquos not only an ideological factor, it&rsquos how people live,” Sandy described towards the Huffington Publish. “Magical realism can be used to speak about literature from the other, literature from virtually everywhere except free airline. However I want to isn&rsquot only a literary genre, it&rsquos the way we comprehend the earth&nbsp– an ambulatory cosmology, the way we undertake the planet.Inch

Sandy describes how — with the lens of Afrofuturism — certain myths, signs, colors and feelings have grown to be like literary symbols to become decoded. How background and nature have grown to be texts to become construed.&nbsp”Becoming an adult, when we walked outdoors also it was sunny and out of the blue it began raining, to my mother, that will mean something,” she states. “It&rsquos this imbued in everything that you simply do. That’s something that’s been passed lower to all of us through generations through our ancestors.”

Within the last 2 yrs, Sandy continues to be curating an exhibit known as “Black Magic: AfroPasts/AfroFutures,” featuring multidisciplinary visual artists in the African Diaspora. Photographers just like a. Delphine Fawundu deconstruct ideas for example black femininity, exploring its relationship to memory and history in her own photographs, a few of which were photographed around the plantation where Nat Turner’s Rebellion happened. “There’s lots of searching back and searching forward happening within this work,” Sandy stated. “Celebrating individuals journeys whether or not they are intentional or forced journeys.”

Beyond Fawundu, artist like Roger Bonair-Agard contributed video installations and poems, like&nbsp”How the World Was Made — a Super Crown.” Bonair-Agard’s poem involves the standard West African character Anansi&nbsp–&nbspa spider, a god, along with a figure utilized in children’s fables told all over the diaspora. “Within the poem, he’s Anansi, finding out how to move from as being a spider to as being a person,” Sandy stated. “It connects these ideas in the folklore and tales we have developed with.”

Delphine Fawundu, Mende Lady around the Nat Turner Plantation, South Hampton, Veterans administration #8, 2014. In the photographer’s Deconstructing SHE series / ODDKINCREATE, THINK AHEAD, 2013 MIXED MEDIA

Within an exhibition statement, Sandy summarizes the essence from the exhibition, an enchanting conjuring of past and offer forces: “Intersections of history, present and future grounded within the magic which was already within the soil, in mid-air, handed down by our ancestors through breath, bonds, bloodstream, ritual well as we discovered the Atlantic many of these many occasions. We feature it around wheresoever we go — this abundant color, rhythm, swagger … Due to this, we hear and see magic in everything across water, space and time.”&nbsp

Awaiting her “Black Magic” exhibition, Sandy shared a few of her favorite authors, artists and musicians adding towards the Afrofuturist vision. Continue reading for any far-out summary of the ruling makers of black magic.&nbsp

Octavia Butler,&nbspauthor

“Who shall we be held? I’m a forty-seven-year-old author who are able to remember as being a ten-year-old author and who expects at some point to become an 80-year-old author. I’m also easily asocial — a hermit … A pessimist if I am not careful, a feminist, a Black, an old Baptist, an oil-and-water combination of ambition, laziness, insecurity, certainty, and drive.”

Books to see:&nbspKindred, Parable from the Sower, Fledgling

Malcolm Ali via Getty Images

American sci-fi author Octavia E. Butler (1947-2006).

Ytasha Womack, author

“Mainstream feminism may need a feeling of balance that Afrofuturism has around expression. Afrofuturism is extremely nonconformist and often I feel like mainstream feminism wants women to convey their liberation in very specific methods to particularly counter damaging narratives produced by men. Afrofuturism doesn&rsquot create towards anything. Consequently, women Afrofuturists can do what they need and just how that turns up is distinctively individual …&nbspSelf-expression in Afrofuturism isn’t about making a statement, it’s about being.“

Book to see:&nbspAfrofuturism: The field of Black Sci-Fi and Fantasy Culture

Amazon . com

Steven Barnes, author

“His mate Lamiya lay sunning around the hardwood deck using their kids, Aliyah and Azinza. Lamiya herself was descended in the Afar people around the shore of Lake Abbe in Old Djibouti. Just one aged servant, Yohela, had supported her about this trip, yet her hair, braided and beaded in to the intricate patterns usual for the Afar, never bore exactly the same configuration 2 days consecutively. 4 years Kai’s senior, Lamiya is at both face and make up the most stylishly sensual lady Kai had seen, and that he had admired her since childhood.” -from Zulu Heart

Books to see: Lion’s Bloodstream, Zulu Heart

Amazon . com

Nnedi Okorafor, author

“I&rsquove always had difficulty covering space. I’m greatly an earthling. I don&rsquot see myself ever departing the earth as i am alive (I might become more adventurous once i die, heh). There’s a lot yet to uncover (and connect) on the planet, why look elsewhere? And my spiritual beliefs and also the systems of magic I&rsquom drawn to are earth-based, born and rooted deep within the soil. They aren’t within the ‘heavens.’ Also, after i talk about something, I must get and feel near to the subject. Irrrve never feel near to &ldquospace&rdquo, no matter how much research I do.“

Book to see:&nbspWho Fears Dying

Amazon . com

Maryse Cond&eacute, author&nbsp

“Paradise isn’t for me personally, I imagine an afterlife where we are able to express all of the feelings and needs we’ve needed to stifle during our lifetime: an afterlife where we’d be free finally to become ourselves. Since I had been little, I&rsquove wondered when the Christian religion isn’t a white-colored-folks religion designed for white-colored-folks, whether or not this&rsquos suitable for us who’ve African bloodstream within our veins.” -from&nbspWindward Heights&nbsp

Books to see:&nbspWindward Heights, Segu

Amazon . com

Ellen Gallagher, artist

“The main one area that is sensible to speak about race within my jobs are my concept of the subjective. Many people can stand before my work not getting any relationship into it, yet others can see the twelve signs, making cohesive readings according to either the formal or subjective characteristics they see. Whenever you make something, you permit yourself readings which are sometimes mistaken. Being an artist I&rsquom creating fiction on the top of the existing readability. It&rsquos that which you spoken about doing whenever you were a child with Colorforms or things i did like a kid, stapling layers of paper costumes onto my dolls, that improvisational layering, implying call and response. It&rsquos not about audience. There&rsquos a friction between your material made to be highjacked. It’s improvisational to create another readability through blindness, through a private act on hand with imagination.”

See much more of her work here.

Boston Globe via Getty Images

Artist Ellen Gallagher in the Institute Of Recent Art.

Underdog, artist

“My work is simply a method to recontextualize and stretch a persons eye.&nbspI flirt with images and produce them in to the ‘now chapter’ of reaffirming and envisioning ourselves.&nbspI would like to break peoples hearts and reassemble them in a single image.”

Underdog

Cyrus Kabiru, artist

“Becoming an artist, for me personally, was which i would be a digital rebel — I had been a little rude to everybody. I don&rsquot care. I don&rsquot follow what individuals want — I follow things i want. I don&rsquot enjoy people. I wish to go my very own way. And So I try everything the alternative to other people, plus they feel this person is a little a digital rebel. After I would be a young boy, grownups thought I had been a poor example. They accustomed to tell their children, ‘Work hard. Should you won&rsquot strive, you&rsquoll end up like Cyrus.’ I had been completely different. I had been forever in the house, doing art, painting and making sculptures, with no one understood things i was doing. I didn&rsquot study, I used shaggy clothes. For them it had been a little weird. I didn&rsquot know Sunday, I didn&rsquot know Monday, I didn&rsquot know.&nbspIn Africa, we live in a package.”

See much more of his work here.

Thanks to the artist and SMAC Gallery

Cyrus Kabiru

Lina Viktor, artist

“I&rsquove been obsessive about gold. I believe humanity in general happens to be obsessive about gold. It&rsquos been valued and revered and sacred. It&rsquos a kind of commerce now. I&rsquom some an astrophysics nerd I truly love stuff concerning the world and researching the foundation of metals. I understand that gold, for instance, is made of the dying of the star — a supernova. So essentially, all of the gold which has have you been found on the planet today are only able to easily fit in three Olympic-sized pools. It&rsquos really a percentage — it&rsquos a really scarce resource, hence why, I&rsquom sure, it’s a lot value. However I think there’s something a lot more implicit in the need for gold — if you notice gold, real gold, it features a kind of emotional quotient into it that you could&rsquot really get if you use fake gold. There’s an emotional reaction when people see real gold.“

See much more of her work here.

Ben Gabbe via Getty Images

Lina Viktor

Sun Ra, composer, poet, philosopher

&ldquoI&rsquom a fantasy, I&rsquom exactly like you. You don&rsquot appear in this society. Should you did, your people wouldn&rsquot be seeking equal legal rights.&nbspYou&rsquore a fantasy. Should you be, you&rsquod possess some status one of the nations around the globe. I don’t come your way like a reality, I come your way like a myth because that&rsquos what black individuals are: myths. I originate from an aspiration the black man imagined lengthy ago.&nbspI&rsquom really a name delivered to you against your ancestors.&rdquo -From&nbspSpace is where

Books to see:&nbspThe Earth Is Condemned

youtube

Janelle Mon&aacutee, music performer

“I am a cybergirl with no face a heart or perhaps a mind /&nbsp(an item from the man, I am an item from the man) /&nbspI’m a saviour with no race (with no face).” -from “Purple Stars Happy Hunting“

Albums: “The ArchAndroid,” “The Electrical Lady”

youtube

Ibeyi, musicians

“Carry away my dead leaves Allow me to baptize my soul with the aid of your waters Sink my pains and complains Allow the river bring them, river drown them My ego and my blame Allow me to baptize my soul with the aid of your waters Individuals old means, so ashamed Allow the river bring them, river drown them” -from “River”

Albums: “Ibeyi”

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Blitz The Ambassador, music performer

“I have always felt hip-hop like a culture has not really yet accepted its worldwide roots.&nbspThe more I traveled, the greater I recognized that you have a specific role that I have to be playing, which role is all about bridging gaps and expanding the culture that I have been so fortunate enough to take part in. That’s why I went with the Ambassador.“

Albums: “Soul Digital rebel,” “Diasporadical”

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“Black Magic: AfroPasts/AfroFutures,” curated by Niama Safia Sandy,&nbspruns from April 24 until May 22, 2016 at Corridor Gallery in Brooklyn, New You are able to.

Find out more: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2016/04/15/your-far-out-guide-to-afrofuturism-and-black-magic_n_9771738.html

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