Music From Ouran High School Host Club
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It's Music Monday and it's time to kiss, kiss fall in love with the music from the anime "Ouran High School Host Club." Justin plays some of his favorite tracks from the OST. Duration 22 mins.
A Lolita Must Have :: Rocking Horse Shoes
/A Lolita MUST HAVE for any occassion of dressing Lolita would be the Vivienne Westwood rocking horse platform mary janes.
These shoes have become a staple in Lolita fashion since Westwood introduced them in 1993. I won't lie! seeing them in person was very intimidating. They look big, heavy, & uncomfortable, but truthfully, they're some of the best "walk on air" shoes I'd ever imagine!
While the originals offer thick leather traps that attach via velcro at the top, there have been adaptations using satin, for a true ballerina look when you rock forward onto the toe, or thin leather straps that can be tied into a neat bow or knot at the string's meet.
Since Westwood's groundbreaking design for Lolitahood and the must-have's being all the rave in the film, Kamize Girls, the "rocking horse" platform sole has been adopted to make all types of shoe styles ... even more involved mary janes & boots!
Well! After all that, I'm gonna go put mine on & get on out to enjoy some sunshine!
Until Next Time!
~je t'adore!
Green Lantern Movie (2011) WonderCon Footage
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Brightest Day, Blackest Night no evil shall escape my sight. The new Green Lantern footage has finally arrive. I must say I can't wait. Mark Strong as Sinestro sounds so good and Geoffrey Rush as Tomar Re is great casting. This is looking like another good summer for us geeks. Lanterns "WE ARE THE CORE!"
How To Write A Comic Book
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For many Otakus and Geeks out there. We all dream at some point in time to either have our own Anime, Videogame, Manga or Comic Book. Since I have started the blueprint process of my comic book that I will be writing. I thought I share some tips on how to write one.
Step 1 - Blueprinting
1. The first step in any writing process is blueprinting or brainstorming. The first thing you need to think of is the story and genre of the comic book. What type of genre or sub genre will your book be? Sci-Fi, Horror, Superhero, Mystery etc. Personally I like to know the setting and the genre before I start writing. It helps me to know what type of environment the characters will be interacting with. For example if it's Sci-Fi then most likely the characters will be dealing with Aliens.
2. Once you have the setting and genre in place. It's time to give a history to your world. This is a very long process. You need to ask yourself some of these questions. What is the history of the planet, city or location? Is it known for crime? What is the climate like yearly? Who will be the citizens at this location? Is their any vehicles? Ask yourself all possible questions about the setting and make a pros and cons list about the setting.
3. Once the setting is done, it's time to work on the characters. Don't worry about what they look like for the moment. Get the main character story first. Who is he or she? What is the backstory? Really get into the psyche of the main character. Become the main character, feel what they feel. Live the character and from there you can create the antagonist and the supporting cast.
4. Once the settings and characters are ready. It's not time to write the first issue yet. Depending on the genre, you might want to come up with some cool powers, vehicles and illnesses. What are the causes of these things? What are the pros and cons etc?. The blueprinting process should take you a couple of months.
Step 2 - Writing The Story
There are various ways to write a comic book. However I' am going to show you the proper way to write it. Like any form of entertainment that contains dialogue, you will need script. A comic book script is similar to a movie script, only that you have to add the sound effects and separate it by panels. Here is an example of how a script would look like.
PAGE ONE (Underline this)
PANEL ONE (Underline this)
Then comes your description of the first panel. The description can be as little or as detail as you want. This depends on your relationship with the artist. If the artist knows your vision well then just do a few simple sentences. For example Justin is typing on the computer with a huge smile on his face. There is little detail in that line, so this will give the artist more freedom. If you want to make more detail it will be like this. It is night time around 9PM eastern time. Justin is on the computer talking to his sister Anime Angel. He has a happy expression on his face. He is wearing a white Otakus and Geeks hoodie, blue jeans and white sneakers. He is slouching in his chair as he stares into the computer. The computer desk is made of glass and on the table is a notebook, a lamp and his cellphone. The more detail, the more helpful it would be for the artist.
JUSTIN (This should be centered)
Woo hoo! Anime Angel brought "Summer Wars" on DVD. I can't wait to see it.
SFX (Center this)
Phone ringing.
If sound effects is needed you can either add it under the dialogue or write it out in a sentence. Continue this process until you have at least 22 pages. Comic books usually run 22 pages long per issue. Also you can use Splash Pages. Splash Pages is one big panel, usually use for big action scenes, or when a lot is going on. Make your Splash Pages count. Now the format is done get to work.
Splash Page
Step 3 - Protect Your Work
1. Step 3 is very, very important. Before you go pitching your comic or releasing it independently. You MUST protect it. Protect every single script that you have written. Don't show anybody until it is protected legally. Don't mail it yourself because it's not fully protected. You want your story fully on data with the government stating that you have wrote this. Visit this Copyright Website and find out which form you need to fill out. I believe it's the PA form. It costs about 45 bucks.
Step 4 - Getting A Team Together
1. Now that the script is done and protected. It's time to build your team who will make your vision happen. Your going to need an artist if you're not doing it yourself. A letterer, someone who will put in the dialogue. Figure out and research what team member you would need, if you can pay them then good. However if not, research some freelancers who believe in your vision and get to work.
Step 5 - Getting Published
1. To get published you can either submit your comics to the big names. Most of them have a submission page, but I think they won't take work that you copyrighted.
2. You can do it independently, which I suggest that way there is no politics and you get most of the money. Research how you can do that, most books are going digital so it might be easier.
Any comments or tips of your own leave in the comment section.
Step 1 - Blueprinting
1. The first step in any writing process is blueprinting or brainstorming. The first thing you need to think of is the story and genre of the comic book. What type of genre or sub genre will your book be? Sci-Fi, Horror, Superhero, Mystery etc. Personally I like to know the setting and the genre before I start writing. It helps me to know what type of environment the characters will be interacting with. For example if it's Sci-Fi then most likely the characters will be dealing with Aliens.
2. Once you have the setting and genre in place. It's time to give a history to your world. This is a very long process. You need to ask yourself some of these questions. What is the history of the planet, city or location? Is it known for crime? What is the climate like yearly? Who will be the citizens at this location? Is their any vehicles? Ask yourself all possible questions about the setting and make a pros and cons list about the setting.
3. Once the setting is done, it's time to work on the characters. Don't worry about what they look like for the moment. Get the main character story first. Who is he or she? What is the backstory? Really get into the psyche of the main character. Become the main character, feel what they feel. Live the character and from there you can create the antagonist and the supporting cast.
4. Once the settings and characters are ready. It's not time to write the first issue yet. Depending on the genre, you might want to come up with some cool powers, vehicles and illnesses. What are the causes of these things? What are the pros and cons etc?. The blueprinting process should take you a couple of months.
Step 2 - Writing The Story
There are various ways to write a comic book. However I' am going to show you the proper way to write it. Like any form of entertainment that contains dialogue, you will need script. A comic book script is similar to a movie script, only that you have to add the sound effects and separate it by panels. Here is an example of how a script would look like.
PAGE ONE (Underline this)
PANEL ONE (Underline this)
Then comes your description of the first panel. The description can be as little or as detail as you want. This depends on your relationship with the artist. If the artist knows your vision well then just do a few simple sentences. For example Justin is typing on the computer with a huge smile on his face. There is little detail in that line, so this will give the artist more freedom. If you want to make more detail it will be like this. It is night time around 9PM eastern time. Justin is on the computer talking to his sister Anime Angel. He has a happy expression on his face. He is wearing a white Otakus and Geeks hoodie, blue jeans and white sneakers. He is slouching in his chair as he stares into the computer. The computer desk is made of glass and on the table is a notebook, a lamp and his cellphone. The more detail, the more helpful it would be for the artist.
JUSTIN (This should be centered)
Woo hoo! Anime Angel brought "Summer Wars" on DVD. I can't wait to see it.
SFX (Center this)
Phone ringing.
If sound effects is needed you can either add it under the dialogue or write it out in a sentence. Continue this process until you have at least 22 pages. Comic books usually run 22 pages long per issue. Also you can use Splash Pages. Splash Pages is one big panel, usually use for big action scenes, or when a lot is going on. Make your Splash Pages count. Now the format is done get to work.
Splash Page
Step 3 - Protect Your Work
1. Step 3 is very, very important. Before you go pitching your comic or releasing it independently. You MUST protect it. Protect every single script that you have written. Don't show anybody until it is protected legally. Don't mail it yourself because it's not fully protected. You want your story fully on data with the government stating that you have wrote this. Visit this Copyright Website and find out which form you need to fill out. I believe it's the PA form. It costs about 45 bucks.
Step 4 - Getting A Team Together
1. Now that the script is done and protected. It's time to build your team who will make your vision happen. Your going to need an artist if you're not doing it yourself. A letterer, someone who will put in the dialogue. Figure out and research what team member you would need, if you can pay them then good. However if not, research some freelancers who believe in your vision and get to work.
Step 5 - Getting Published
1. To get published you can either submit your comics to the big names. Most of them have a submission page, but I think they won't take work that you copyrighted.
2. You can do it independently, which I suggest that way there is no politics and you get most of the money. Research how you can do that, most books are going digital so it might be easier.
Any comments or tips of your own leave in the comment section.
Sakura Day!
/So I knnoowwwwww we haven't gotten together in a while & March was our Lolita time together. However, recent events with our adorable neighbors in the East called for some attention. So I had to press pause to be a bit socially responsible >^.^<
I hope you'll still be my fashion friends as we resume our Road to Lolita & other fashion randomness!
We'll be easing on down that road bright & early Sunday afternoon! Loli promise >^.*<
I' WILL take this time and share where my head had run off to! Aside from being DC's greatest Otaku (joke joke ... I'm a big one, but not the greatest by far LOL)
I'm also a tattoo artist in the area. SO I get a double whammy of Japanese culture. Being as though I'm so fond, I thought it'd ONLY be right to host a Sakura Day at Pinz-n-Needlez Tattoo to contribute to larger relief efforts for Japan.
For the day, we did $20 Sakuras & sold tons of art made by the hands of Artistic Sole, TokyoXIII, Amari Mars, & Kevin Hunt. The day was documented by one of the shop's GREATEST friends/ fam/ client extraordinaire AP, of 1000 Words Photography.
... and that kitten who loves Japan is my very own character, Indian Pussy! her comic title The MISS-Adventures of Indian Pussy will be launching soon, so I hope you'll plan to join us!
To top off a succesful day of great art, attitudes, and efforts, we poured saki and had great times! All in all, we raised over $1300 to help aid Japan. It's not a lot, but every little bit helps & we were glad to do so!
I hope that's a good enough reason of why I haven't spent time with you all as of recent, but I wasn't too far gone. SEE!
Until Sunday cats & kittens!
~je t'adore!
Until Sunday cats & kittens!
~je t'adore!
Interview With Kim Cattrall
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Justin was featured in a Roundtable Interview with Actress Kim Cattrall to talk about her new film "Meet Monica Velour." Kim plays a fallen 80's pornstar who has hit severe rock bottom. Here is what Kim had to say about playing Monica.
Interviewer 1 asked Kim: What was you're reaction when you saw the final cut of the film?
Kim Cattrall: Whenever I see something I do for the first time, I'am kind of in shock. It's kind of formulated in your head and heart and your so excited that your doing it. Then when you take it outside of that, it's very impossible to be objective. It's almost like your in a trance. This was very different than anything I have ever done, not just the physicality, the voice and the heart of it. I didn't know if it worked. It took a couple of viewings for me to relax. It was a real relish to take this iconic look of who am I, or who people perceived you of being and just turning that inside out. Taking this image of who you are suppose to be was exciting and scary as well.
Kim Cattrall as Monica Velour
Justin For OtakusandGeeks.com: How did you prepare for the role of Monica Velour?
Kim Cattrall: I met Keith I think 2 months prior before filming. I responded to the script immediately. To get a role like this at this point in your life is very unusual. Nobody is writing parts for women over fifty that is this juicy, this multi-layer. We met and I said I really like to spend sometime with you, because he is a first time director and he's only done shorts. Also I wanted him to be comfortable with working with me. I wanted to see if we can find a language to work together. We rented a rehearsal room and we went through the whole script. I ask him a lot question and I mean a lot of question. Keith was very specific of how Monica sounded and how she carried herself. What he wasn't as touched with as I wanted to be is what the story was about. This woman trying to get the custody of her child and fighting for that. I asked for a couple of changes and he was more than happy to do that. Then came the weight issues which was fantastic. I could eat whatever I wanted and not exercised, then start to take on that whole burden where Monica finds herself.
Interviewer 2 asked Kim: What do you like about doing a small film like this compare to a blockbuster?
Kim Cattrall: It's very exciting to work with someone who never directed film before. They don't know on what not to do, there is this thrill to that. Keith has a voice and I think it's different than a lot of movies that are being made right now. I've been brought up with independent films and they're kind of my residents to America and European films too, thats what I love about them. To be able to support it, not just as an actor but as an audience member is amazing.
Justin For OtakusandGeeks.com: What I really like about the movie, is how Monica's profession was effecting how she was able to get a job. As I was watching it I was relating it to Hollywood Actors and Actresses as they get older they're usually get typecast. It was amazing just watching that character just trying to crawl back to even a stable living.
Kim Cattrall: "I can't even get a 5 buck an hour shampoo job in this town." That was the line in the film and it's true she couldn't get a job. She is so marginalized and she has the A on the chest. Society didn't want anything to do with her. She is so outside of any kind of life that could feed her, never mind her child. What choices does she has? She has no choices. I think you're absolutely right. You can put that into the entertainment fields, many fields, all fields. Where do you go? What do you do? People don't even have saving accounts anymore. That faith she had has been twisted and burned. What is her skills? She has none.
Meet Monica Velour Trailer
Interviewer 3 asked Kim: People usually say "The last thing want to meet you're heroes, because they never live up to you're expectations. What do you think this movie says about that?
Kim Cattrall: I don't think Tobe sees Monica from outside his fantasy ever. When he sees her he just sees her glory. He doesn't her 20 pounds overweight and messed up. Two minutes of them really spending time together, she breaks down and just uses him as a body to unload. He is chosen to be there. He sees her as his ideal and she's not hiding anything. She is who she is.
Justin: I will now leave you with a great quote Kim Cattrall was told by Jack Lemon.
Kim Cattrall: "Do things that scare you kid and you'll learn something."
Meet Monica Velour opens April 8th, 2011 (limited). Check you're local theater listings.
Interviewer 1 asked Kim: What was you're reaction when you saw the final cut of the film?
Kim Cattrall: Whenever I see something I do for the first time, I'am kind of in shock. It's kind of formulated in your head and heart and your so excited that your doing it. Then when you take it outside of that, it's very impossible to be objective. It's almost like your in a trance. This was very different than anything I have ever done, not just the physicality, the voice and the heart of it. I didn't know if it worked. It took a couple of viewings for me to relax. It was a real relish to take this iconic look of who am I, or who people perceived you of being and just turning that inside out. Taking this image of who you are suppose to be was exciting and scary as well.
Kim Cattrall as Monica Velour
Justin For OtakusandGeeks.com: How did you prepare for the role of Monica Velour?
Kim Cattrall: I met Keith I think 2 months prior before filming. I responded to the script immediately. To get a role like this at this point in your life is very unusual. Nobody is writing parts for women over fifty that is this juicy, this multi-layer. We met and I said I really like to spend sometime with you, because he is a first time director and he's only done shorts. Also I wanted him to be comfortable with working with me. I wanted to see if we can find a language to work together. We rented a rehearsal room and we went through the whole script. I ask him a lot question and I mean a lot of question. Keith was very specific of how Monica sounded and how she carried herself. What he wasn't as touched with as I wanted to be is what the story was about. This woman trying to get the custody of her child and fighting for that. I asked for a couple of changes and he was more than happy to do that. Then came the weight issues which was fantastic. I could eat whatever I wanted and not exercised, then start to take on that whole burden where Monica finds herself.
Interviewer 2 asked Kim: What do you like about doing a small film like this compare to a blockbuster?
Kim Cattrall: It's very exciting to work with someone who never directed film before. They don't know on what not to do, there is this thrill to that. Keith has a voice and I think it's different than a lot of movies that are being made right now. I've been brought up with independent films and they're kind of my residents to America and European films too, thats what I love about them. To be able to support it, not just as an actor but as an audience member is amazing.
Justin For OtakusandGeeks.com: What I really like about the movie, is how Monica's profession was effecting how she was able to get a job. As I was watching it I was relating it to Hollywood Actors and Actresses as they get older they're usually get typecast. It was amazing just watching that character just trying to crawl back to even a stable living.
Kim Cattrall: "I can't even get a 5 buck an hour shampoo job in this town." That was the line in the film and it's true she couldn't get a job. She is so marginalized and she has the A on the chest. Society didn't want anything to do with her. She is so outside of any kind of life that could feed her, never mind her child. What choices does she has? She has no choices. I think you're absolutely right. You can put that into the entertainment fields, many fields, all fields. Where do you go? What do you do? People don't even have saving accounts anymore. That faith she had has been twisted and burned. What is her skills? She has none.
Meet Monica Velour Trailer
Interviewer 3 asked Kim: People usually say "The last thing want to meet you're heroes, because they never live up to you're expectations. What do you think this movie says about that?
Kim Cattrall: I don't think Tobe sees Monica from outside his fantasy ever. When he sees her he just sees her glory. He doesn't her 20 pounds overweight and messed up. Two minutes of them really spending time together, she breaks down and just uses him as a body to unload. He is chosen to be there. He sees her as his ideal and she's not hiding anything. She is who she is.
Justin: I will now leave you with a great quote Kim Cattrall was told by Jack Lemon.
Kim Cattrall: "Do things that scare you kid and you'll learn something."
Meet Monica Velour opens April 8th, 2011 (limited). Check you're local theater listings.
Gunslinger Girl Review
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The Social Welfare Corporation is a secret military force comprised of orphaned girls that have been "saved" by becoming more machine than flesh. Although, they have erased their memories, they are aware they are programmed to kill. How does Gunslinger Girl hold up? Is it a hit or miss?
Tron Evolution Review
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Step into the world of TRON with the prequel to TRON Legacy. Is this worth the trip to the game grid? Or should you play another grid.
Story - Things are not right in The Grid. The Grid has evolved from the original system. Kevin Flynn has discovered a race of new programs called the ISO's or Isomorphic Algorithms. These are programs without a user and have free will. When the ISO Jalen is murdered. Flynn creates a security monitor program "Anon" to help find out what happen. Without giving any spoilers away, the story is a decent tie into to how Clu comes to power. It does of good job of explaining what happen to Flynn and you see more of Quorra. However we still don't get a full explanation on the ISO's and why they are so important.
Gameplay - The gameplay is a third person action/beat em up/ platformer. The gameplay is average and has a lot of issues in the platforming department. The fighting system is average. Anon uses 4 type of disc to defeat different type of enemies. He uses the Heavy Disc, Bomb Disc, Corruption Disc, and Stasis Disc. Depending on the enemy you will use a certain type of disc. For example the battle tanks can only be defeated by the Bomb Disc. Once you figure out which disc, effects what enemies the game gets very repetitive. It's platform to an area, fight an enemy, or push a button to move to the next area. The game does consist of Lightcycles and Battle Tank sequences, however it's not what you expect. The Lightcycles are escape sequences and the Battle Tank is fun but gets very repetitive quickly. One of the major flaws in this game is the platforming. I have never died so much in a videogame ever. The platform needed to be executed better. Expect to die a lot in this game, not because the game is hard but because the platforming is not great. The platforming will remind of you Prince Of Persia but less enjoyable. You have to jump at the exact angle with the best precision to succeed. This isn't a problem if you love a challenge, however for the casual gamers this might be a turn off. The game has RPG elements of upgrading you're character to make him stronger. Players are able to upgrade health, disc, vehicles and energy. he upgrades work best in the Multiplayer. This mode consists of your standard Deathmatches, Capture The Flag (Bit) and etc with a Tron twist. Some modes have Lightcycles and Tanks and most is better on foot. However they don't have matches based on you're level. Be prepare to be mismatch with someone on a higher level.
Graphics - The graphics do really well to capture the world of TRON. The Grid looks very similar to The Grid in TRON Legacy. A lot use of neon blue and black. However you will feel that some places and set pieces are the same. Also Quorra animation is not that great. Other than those little complaints I really enjoy the graphics.
Sound - The music is fantastic. There are two tracks from Daft Punk "The Grid" and "Derezzed." The other music is not by Daft Punk. However it's composed by Cris Velasco, Sascha Dikiciyan, Kevin Manthei and they made sure it sounds Daft Punk like. I thought the soundtrack was very well done. The voice acting is also great as well Olivia Wilde and Bruce Boxleitner reprises their roles, as Quorra and TRON. Jensen Ackles also lend his voice to the game. The sound is great and sounds great in surround sound.
Replay Value - Minus the Multiplayer and collecting a few items. The Grid doesn't offer much. However TRON fans will play Multiplayer to death.
Final Grade C-/7.0 - TRON Evolution has it's issues, but TRON fans will still find it enjoyable. Non TRON fans will find there are better action games, that execute better. The game is not terrible just average, repetitive and flawed. The sound, graphic and some gameplay are wonderful, however lack of Lightcycles and Grid games will leave you disappointed.
Story - Things are not right in The Grid. The Grid has evolved from the original system. Kevin Flynn has discovered a race of new programs called the ISO's or Isomorphic Algorithms. These are programs without a user and have free will. When the ISO Jalen is murdered. Flynn creates a security monitor program "Anon" to help find out what happen. Without giving any spoilers away, the story is a decent tie into to how Clu comes to power. It does of good job of explaining what happen to Flynn and you see more of Quorra. However we still don't get a full explanation on the ISO's and why they are so important.
Gameplay - The gameplay is a third person action/beat em up/ platformer. The gameplay is average and has a lot of issues in the platforming department. The fighting system is average. Anon uses 4 type of disc to defeat different type of enemies. He uses the Heavy Disc, Bomb Disc, Corruption Disc, and Stasis Disc. Depending on the enemy you will use a certain type of disc. For example the battle tanks can only be defeated by the Bomb Disc. Once you figure out which disc, effects what enemies the game gets very repetitive. It's platform to an area, fight an enemy, or push a button to move to the next area. The game does consist of Lightcycles and Battle Tank sequences, however it's not what you expect. The Lightcycles are escape sequences and the Battle Tank is fun but gets very repetitive quickly. One of the major flaws in this game is the platforming. I have never died so much in a videogame ever. The platform needed to be executed better. Expect to die a lot in this game, not because the game is hard but because the platforming is not great. The platforming will remind of you Prince Of Persia but less enjoyable. You have to jump at the exact angle with the best precision to succeed. This isn't a problem if you love a challenge, however for the casual gamers this might be a turn off. The game has RPG elements of upgrading you're character to make him stronger. Players are able to upgrade health, disc, vehicles and energy. he upgrades work best in the Multiplayer. This mode consists of your standard Deathmatches, Capture The Flag (Bit) and etc with a Tron twist. Some modes have Lightcycles and Tanks and most is better on foot. However they don't have matches based on you're level. Be prepare to be mismatch with someone on a higher level.
Gameplay Video
Graphics - The graphics do really well to capture the world of TRON. The Grid looks very similar to The Grid in TRON Legacy. A lot use of neon blue and black. However you will feel that some places and set pieces are the same. Also Quorra animation is not that great. Other than those little complaints I really enjoy the graphics.
Sound - The music is fantastic. There are two tracks from Daft Punk "The Grid" and "Derezzed." The other music is not by Daft Punk. However it's composed by Cris Velasco, Sascha Dikiciyan, Kevin Manthei and they made sure it sounds Daft Punk like. I thought the soundtrack was very well done. The voice acting is also great as well Olivia Wilde and Bruce Boxleitner reprises their roles, as Quorra and TRON. Jensen Ackles also lend his voice to the game. The sound is great and sounds great in surround sound.
Replay Value - Minus the Multiplayer and collecting a few items. The Grid doesn't offer much. However TRON fans will play Multiplayer to death.
Final Grade C-/7.0 - TRON Evolution has it's issues, but TRON fans will still find it enjoyable. Non TRON fans will find there are better action games, that execute better. The game is not terrible just average, repetitive and flawed. The sound, graphic and some gameplay are wonderful, however lack of Lightcycles and Grid games will leave you disappointed.
Sucker Punch Review
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"Sucker Punch" stars Emily Browning, Vanessa Hudgens, Abbie Cornish, Jena Malone and Jamie Chung. The film is directed by Zack Snyder. It is written by Zack Snyder & Steve Shibuya. Is this the first blockbuster of the year? Or are you a sucker for seeing it?
Story - A young girl is institutionalized by her abusive stepfather. Retreating to an alternative reality as a coping strategy, she envisions a plan which will help her escape from the mental facility. That is synopsis for the film. Where to begin with this story? Excuse me what story, what plot. The story is all over the place. To sum it up for people who might have been confused. This is an escape film/action film/suppose to be a social commentary on how women are viewed. The main character Babydoll (Emily Browning) has a plan to escape the institution. She was told in a fantasy world that in order to escape she must obtain five items. The items are obtain through an unseen dance sequence. When it's time to dance, the film goes into the fantasy world. In the fantasy world we see the action sequences, where the girls have to battle zombies, dragons and etc to get the items. Problem with the story is there is a lack of character development and very repetitive. This is the format of the film. Girls plan the escape, they go into the fantasy world. The action scene happen, then a little social commentary on women. The movie was suppose to be a social commentary on women and how they are view. Unfortunately I didn't see the message or theme in this film. Lack of character of development, plot all of over the place, and theme really missed it's mark. To be fair there is some points in the social commentary that I did enjoy. Like the social commentary on abuse.
Acting - I actually enjoyed the acting in the movie. I didn't think the acting was bad. Some scenes felt wooden and some scenes were good. The girls had great chemistry with each other. Emily Browning, Vanessa Hudgens, Abbie Cornish, Jena Malone and Jamie Chung make the film watchable. They were great in the action scenes and I did like the emotional scenes. However acting alone can't save a movie.
Music & Filmmaking - The music uses a lot of covers from the 80's. We have a cover from one of my favorite songs "Sweet Dreams" by Eurythmics. The original score I enjoyed as well. I love the themes and songs played in the action. However some of the covers made me cringe. The film is absolutely beautiful to look at. If there is one thing Synder knows is visual. "Sucker Punch" is a wow in detail from the environments, to make up and even camera angles. The action scenes are very entertaining. However Synder is still in love with slow motion, he uses that technique every chance he gets. The style is really getting old and I'm hoping he will get a new technique for the action.
Final Grade C-/** Stars Out Of 4 - Sucker Punch is disappointing. The acting is okay, the visual are wonderful, however the story suffers, the theme misses it's mark at points and the slow motion technique is getting stale. It's up to you whether you will be the sucker.
Story - A young girl is institutionalized by her abusive stepfather. Retreating to an alternative reality as a coping strategy, she envisions a plan which will help her escape from the mental facility. That is synopsis for the film. Where to begin with this story? Excuse me what story, what plot. The story is all over the place. To sum it up for people who might have been confused. This is an escape film/action film/suppose to be a social commentary on how women are viewed. The main character Babydoll (Emily Browning) has a plan to escape the institution. She was told in a fantasy world that in order to escape she must obtain five items. The items are obtain through an unseen dance sequence. When it's time to dance, the film goes into the fantasy world. In the fantasy world we see the action sequences, where the girls have to battle zombies, dragons and etc to get the items. Problem with the story is there is a lack of character development and very repetitive. This is the format of the film. Girls plan the escape, they go into the fantasy world. The action scene happen, then a little social commentary on women. The movie was suppose to be a social commentary on women and how they are view. Unfortunately I didn't see the message or theme in this film. Lack of character of development, plot all of over the place, and theme really missed it's mark. To be fair there is some points in the social commentary that I did enjoy. Like the social commentary on abuse.
Acting - I actually enjoyed the acting in the movie. I didn't think the acting was bad. Some scenes felt wooden and some scenes were good. The girls had great chemistry with each other. Emily Browning, Vanessa Hudgens, Abbie Cornish, Jena Malone and Jamie Chung make the film watchable. They were great in the action scenes and I did like the emotional scenes. However acting alone can't save a movie.
Music & Filmmaking - The music uses a lot of covers from the 80's. We have a cover from one of my favorite songs "Sweet Dreams" by Eurythmics. The original score I enjoyed as well. I love the themes and songs played in the action. However some of the covers made me cringe. The film is absolutely beautiful to look at. If there is one thing Synder knows is visual. "Sucker Punch" is a wow in detail from the environments, to make up and even camera angles. The action scenes are very entertaining. However Synder is still in love with slow motion, he uses that technique every chance he gets. The style is really getting old and I'm hoping he will get a new technique for the action.
Final Grade C-/** Stars Out Of 4 - Sucker Punch is disappointing. The acting is okay, the visual are wonderful, however the story suffers, the theme misses it's mark at points and the slow motion technique is getting stale. It's up to you whether you will be the sucker.
The Music Of Bruce Faulconer
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It's the return of Music Monday! This week Justin plays some of his favorite Dragonball Z tracks from composer Bruce Faulconer. Duration Time 55 Mins.
Limitless Review
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"Limitless" stars Bradley Cooper, Robert De Niro and Abbie Cornish. The film is directed by Neil Burger and written by Leslie Dixon. How does the wonder the pill hold up? Should you take the pill or not?
Story - An unsuccessful writer's life is transformed by a top-secret "smart drug" that allows him to use 100% of his brain and become a perfect version of himself. That is the synopsis of the film. The story works very well. I really enjoy the story. It is a story of one man's journey to power using this super wonder drug. The characters are very interesting especially Eddie Morra (Bradley Cooper). Eddie Morra is the main character in the movie and he's a loser in the beginning. He leeches off his girlfriend, he's not motivated to do anything with his life. He has failed as a writer. Eddie is pretty down on his luck. It's until Eddie meets his ex brother in law, who introduces him to the wonder drug. From there Eddie becomes one of the smartest and most powerful men in America. However things are not what they seem to be. Like any medication this one has some serious side effects. I won't spoil what the side effects are but let's just say it's not good. The story is entertaining, but I felt the ending was a little weak. However one thing I like about the ending is it made me wanting to see more. It seems that the rising conflict, between Bradley Cooper and Robert De Niro characters was just reaching it's peak towards the end. Before the conflict between them really gets good the movie was over. There were also a question I was raising, while I was watching the movie. Like if he was so smart why couldn't he just make more pills in the beginning? Regardless of some things that was common sense. The movie, the characters are really engaging. I love the theme of power in this film. I love how it show how just a little taste of it can make anyone become greedy. I felt that was executed and explored well.
Acting - The acting is good. If you had any doubts that Bradley Cooper can't hold a movie. It's time for you to eat those words. This role showed that Cooper is soon going to be leading man status, if not already. Cooper is very convincing and entertaining in this role. He makes the character believable and really brings that charm that he is known for. De Niro is better than he has been in recent roles. He's not given much to do in this, however it is nice to see him back in a role you can tell he was enjoying. Abbie Cornish did good as well. She plays Cooper's girlfriend, she brings that element of vulnerability and sensitivity to the world of Eddie.
Music & Filmmaking - The music is composed by Paul Leonard-Morgan. I like the OST, however I'm not a huge fan of it. The music really shines during the intense fighting or chase scenes. Other than that I felt the music to be pretty generic. The filmmaking I really love. There is this one scene when Eddie is feeling dazed, and the entire scene goes into this trippy like sequence. It makes you really feel like you are experiencing it as well. The action scenes are shot well, and there is good use of narration that doesn't take away from the movie.
Final Grade B+/*** Stars Out Of 4 - Limitless is fun, entertaining and will make you think about the human potential. The movie is well acted and the pacing is great. I felt the soundtrack was generic but it doesn't hurt the film at all. I say go see this movie when you get a chance.
Story - An unsuccessful writer's life is transformed by a top-secret "smart drug" that allows him to use 100% of his brain and become a perfect version of himself. That is the synopsis of the film. The story works very well. I really enjoy the story. It is a story of one man's journey to power using this super wonder drug. The characters are very interesting especially Eddie Morra (Bradley Cooper). Eddie Morra is the main character in the movie and he's a loser in the beginning. He leeches off his girlfriend, he's not motivated to do anything with his life. He has failed as a writer. Eddie is pretty down on his luck. It's until Eddie meets his ex brother in law, who introduces him to the wonder drug. From there Eddie becomes one of the smartest and most powerful men in America. However things are not what they seem to be. Like any medication this one has some serious side effects. I won't spoil what the side effects are but let's just say it's not good. The story is entertaining, but I felt the ending was a little weak. However one thing I like about the ending is it made me wanting to see more. It seems that the rising conflict, between Bradley Cooper and Robert De Niro characters was just reaching it's peak towards the end. Before the conflict between them really gets good the movie was over. There were also a question I was raising, while I was watching the movie. Like if he was so smart why couldn't he just make more pills in the beginning? Regardless of some things that was common sense. The movie, the characters are really engaging. I love the theme of power in this film. I love how it show how just a little taste of it can make anyone become greedy. I felt that was executed and explored well.
Acting - The acting is good. If you had any doubts that Bradley Cooper can't hold a movie. It's time for you to eat those words. This role showed that Cooper is soon going to be leading man status, if not already. Cooper is very convincing and entertaining in this role. He makes the character believable and really brings that charm that he is known for. De Niro is better than he has been in recent roles. He's not given much to do in this, however it is nice to see him back in a role you can tell he was enjoying. Abbie Cornish did good as well. She plays Cooper's girlfriend, she brings that element of vulnerability and sensitivity to the world of Eddie.
Music & Filmmaking - The music is composed by Paul Leonard-Morgan. I like the OST, however I'm not a huge fan of it. The music really shines during the intense fighting or chase scenes. Other than that I felt the music to be pretty generic. The filmmaking I really love. There is this one scene when Eddie is feeling dazed, and the entire scene goes into this trippy like sequence. It makes you really feel like you are experiencing it as well. The action scenes are shot well, and there is good use of narration that doesn't take away from the movie.
Final Grade B+/*** Stars Out Of 4 - Limitless is fun, entertaining and will make you think about the human potential. The movie is well acted and the pacing is great. I felt the soundtrack was generic but it doesn't hurt the film at all. I say go see this movie when you get a chance.
Lupin The 3rd NES
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Here is a retro look back at Lupin The 3rd for the NES. This is action platformer that came out in 1987. Check out the gameplay.
WCW Wrestling NES
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Justin takes a retro look back at WCW Wrestling for the NES. How does this wrestling game hold up against the WWF NES games?
Cosplay Boy Of The Week #42 (Yugi)
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I haven't done Cosplay Boy Of The Week in a while. I've been very busy. However I' am back with more cosplay boy characters. This week is Yugi from Yugi-Oh.
Read MorePedobear Plush Hat
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We got a email from a girl name Jenny telling us to check this Pedobear Plush Hat. This hat looks so adorable. It looks really good on the model in these pictures. You can purchase the Pedobear Hat at the Catch Kuma website. It's only $24.99. Buy The Pedohat Here. 
Captain America: The First Avenger Trailer
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Captain America: The First Avenger Trailer has finally arrived. We get to see Capt throw the shield and Tommy Lee Jones in action. Also a very clear look at The Red Skull.
Battle: Los Angeles Review
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Battle Los Angeles stars Aaron Eckhart, Bridget Moynahan, Ramon Rodriguez, Michelle Rodriguez and Ne-Yo. This film pits humanity against one of their most constant foes an alien invasion. How does this movie hold up? Is it worth the price of admission? Or you should stay away from Los Angeles?
Story - A Marine Staff Sergeant who has just had his retirement approved goes back into the line of duty in order to assist a 2nd Lieutenant and his platoon as they fight to reclaim the city of Los Angeles from alien invaders. That's the synopsis for the film, too bad the story is lacking severely. Battle Los Angeles could've been a really great story about humanity and banding together. Instead we get a film with little to no characterization on the heroes and villains. Each character gets a couple of lines on their backstory and that's it. For example Ne-Yo character Cpl. Kevin Harris background is that he is about to marry his sweetheart. You really don't know much about why he's in the Marines etc. The only character who gets any real characterization is Aaron Eckhart as SSgt. Michael Nantz. His character has more of backstory and something is haunting him, that could effect the way he commands the troops. However even that wasn't really explored that much. The aliens you know nothing about except for what they are after. No names for the creatures, no backstory of what planet they are from, nothing really explained at all. The film is just one big set piece after another. I know this is a war film and action is needed. However would a little bit of story hurt the film? Also watching the story I felt like this was just one huge join The Marines commercial. The story does not hesitate to mention The Marines and We're Marines every chance it got.
Acting - The acting is tolerable. The problem with the acting is not the actors, it's the fact the actors have nothing to do. With no real character development, you can't expect an outstanding performance. As good as Aaron Eckhart, Michelle Rodriquez and Bridget Moynahan are the acting seems wooden. Maybe with a little more character development we could have seen more. Also there are some dialogue that will make you cringe. I will leave that up to you decided which one it was.
Music & Filming - The music is composed by Brian Tyler (Eagle Eye, Dragonball Evolution,The Expendables). The music is the films strong point. Tyler composes a score that not only sets the tone of the film, but compliments the scenes. However I did feel that almost every single song felt like I was watching a Michael Bay film. I did enjoy listening to the score it had great use of the strings, piano and the horns. One of my favorite songs is when the aliens first arrive.
The special effects and battle sequences are great. The destruction, the explosion and the sound is wonderful to see. I just wish the designs on the aliens were better. They look like more like machines then aliens. However this explained later in the movie, they called them Drones. Their are some nice shots of the battle scenes up close that I did enjoy. I also enjoy the shaky camera from the time to time. I felt that it added realism to the battlefield and it worked welled.
Final Grade C+/ **1/2 out of 4 Stars - Battle Los Angeles is all action with no substance. It's ashamed because this could have been a great alien invasion flick. However we get a movie that borrows elements from Independence Day, District 9 and even some videogames. There is nothing new under the sun for this film. If you want a great non stop action film, then this film is for you. However if you want a alien story with more substance stay away from this film.
Story - A Marine Staff Sergeant who has just had his retirement approved goes back into the line of duty in order to assist a 2nd Lieutenant and his platoon as they fight to reclaim the city of Los Angeles from alien invaders. That's the synopsis for the film, too bad the story is lacking severely. Battle Los Angeles could've been a really great story about humanity and banding together. Instead we get a film with little to no characterization on the heroes and villains. Each character gets a couple of lines on their backstory and that's it. For example Ne-Yo character Cpl. Kevin Harris background is that he is about to marry his sweetheart. You really don't know much about why he's in the Marines etc. The only character who gets any real characterization is Aaron Eckhart as SSgt. Michael Nantz. His character has more of backstory and something is haunting him, that could effect the way he commands the troops. However even that wasn't really explored that much. The aliens you know nothing about except for what they are after. No names for the creatures, no backstory of what planet they are from, nothing really explained at all. The film is just one big set piece after another. I know this is a war film and action is needed. However would a little bit of story hurt the film? Also watching the story I felt like this was just one huge join The Marines commercial. The story does not hesitate to mention The Marines and We're Marines every chance it got.
Acting - The acting is tolerable. The problem with the acting is not the actors, it's the fact the actors have nothing to do. With no real character development, you can't expect an outstanding performance. As good as Aaron Eckhart, Michelle Rodriquez and Bridget Moynahan are the acting seems wooden. Maybe with a little more character development we could have seen more. Also there are some dialogue that will make you cringe. I will leave that up to you decided which one it was.
Music & Filming - The music is composed by Brian Tyler (Eagle Eye, Dragonball Evolution,The Expendables). The music is the films strong point. Tyler composes a score that not only sets the tone of the film, but compliments the scenes. However I did feel that almost every single song felt like I was watching a Michael Bay film. I did enjoy listening to the score it had great use of the strings, piano and the horns. One of my favorite songs is when the aliens first arrive.
The special effects and battle sequences are great. The destruction, the explosion and the sound is wonderful to see. I just wish the designs on the aliens were better. They look like more like machines then aliens. However this explained later in the movie, they called them Drones. Their are some nice shots of the battle scenes up close that I did enjoy. I also enjoy the shaky camera from the time to time. I felt that it added realism to the battlefield and it worked welled.
Final Grade C+/ **1/2 out of 4 Stars - Battle Los Angeles is all action with no substance. It's ashamed because this could have been a great alien invasion flick. However we get a movie that borrows elements from Independence Day, District 9 and even some videogames. There is nothing new under the sun for this film. If you want a great non stop action film, then this film is for you. However if you want a alien story with more substance stay away from this film.
Tenchi Muyo: The Daughter Of Darkness Review
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Tenchi has a daughter? However not all is what it seems. Check out our review on Tenchi Muyo The Daughter Of Darkness.
Ghost Sweeper Review
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Nosferatu has return it's up to one Ghost Sweeper to save Tokyo from becoming mindless zombies? But wait isn't this suppose to be about ghost? Check out our review on Ghost Sweeper.
How To Start A Blog
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There are many people out in the world who would like to start a blog. However many people don't know how to start one, or which service to host their blog for. There are tons of sites to host your blog such as, Blogger, Wordpress, some use Tumblr. We use Blogger because we found it more easier to use and manage. All three are great and have their strengths and weakness. Research which one best fits your needs. Let's get started on how to start a blog.
Step 1 - Blueprinting
1. After you have chosen your hosting site. Come up with an idea on what you'll blog about. It's important to know who you're target audience will be and how you'll market the blog to them. Don't just act on you're first idea. Think about it for at least 3 days on what you will blog about, how you will approach it. What type of content will you provide? Ask yourself some of these questions.
1. How often will I blog? Will I blog weekly, a couple days a week or daily?
2. Will I have videos? If so how will I upload the videos?
3. Will my site be interviewing guests and doing reviews?
4. Am I trying to make money off this blog? How much space do I want for ad's etc?
5. Who is my target audience and how can I go beyond that, without losing the target audience?
These are some of the questions that you need to ask yourself. Answering them with a plan will help make the blog more successful. Get the pen and paper and start blueprinting.
Step 2 - The Look Of The Blog
For those who are blessed enough to have training in web designs then you can skip this step. For people who don't know anything about HTML, C++, etc. Read this step.
1. There are many sites that you can get templates for you're blog. The one that we went too was BTemplates. BTemplates has a variety of templates for many categories. They even include adapted templates from Wordpress. Note this site is used for people using blogger.
2. Wordpress users can check out Wordpress Themes Base. This site has over 92 pages of templates and it's FREE!
Step 3 - Blogging and Marketing
Now that you have you're blog face and the plan ready. It's time to get to work and put everything into action. The question at this point is how do you attract an audience. Well there are tons of ways to market yourself. You have social networks such as Twitter, Facebook and Myspace. You have sites like Youtube to help get you're face out there. Also there is Podcasting. So many ways to get you're blog know. Choose the best method that suits you. If you want big attention use all of these resources.
1. Make sure to submit the blog to every search engine site you think of, like Google, Yahoo, Bing etc.
2. Create a Facebook Fan Page for you're blog. Twitter and Myspace as well. Use the social network to you're advantage.
3. Use word of mouth. Have you're friends and family spread the word to everyone they know about you're blog.
4. This is very important. You must above all else have charisma. Keep you're readers entertained. Make whatever you are blogging about fun, original as possible and refreshing, that way they will subscribe and keep coming back.
5. Be consistent. You don't know how many bloggers are not consistent with their blog. It's important to interact with you're readers and post consistently.
Step 4 - How To Conduct Interviews?
Depending on what type of blog you have. You would want to conduct interviews with people who are popular in that field. How do you find the people you want to interview? Well don't expect to be interviewing people like Oprah anytime soon (unless you are bless like that).
1. Google to see if the person you would like to interview has an OFFICIAL website. Usually the official website has contact information. Email the contact with the subject Interview Opportunities. Email the possible interviewee with information on who you are, what you're site is about and if there is any current time in there schedule to do an interview. Also a little compliment won't hurt either. Don't get discourage if you don't hear a reply. Sometimes it takes months for people to get back to you (trust us we know!). When you have a date and time for the interview it's time to begin the process.
2. Research other interviews that the person has done. You don't want the person repeating themselves over and over again.
3. Keep you're questions clearly on topic. Leave their personal lives out of the interview it's none of you're business. If you are going to ask personal questions ask them ahead of time, so they can give a proper answer. You do not want to offend the person you are interviewing.
4. Do not do group or round table interviews. Make sure to make you're interviews one on one. You want to get the most out of an interview not just for you're readers but for the fans as well. Round table or group interviews you don't get all you're questions answer and you are limited to what you can ask. If the only interview you can get is group or round table with that person, then try again some other time.
5. Treat every interviewee the same. Everyone who is a guest at you're blog is a star. No one is too big and no one is too small. Make the interview exciting and fun.
Step 5 - Dealing With Teammates
If you're blog is not a single effort and you have a team then you need to lay some ground rules.
1. Everyone completes what they are assign to do.
2. There are no stars on the team. If you shine, everyone should shine.
3. Address everything with you're team. I mean everything if you're going to get AD money, let them know.
4. Keep you're teammates morale level high. Make them want to write on the blog.
5. Have fun.
Step 6 - Enjoyment
Final step is easy. Have fun!
Step 1 - Blueprinting
1. After you have chosen your hosting site. Come up with an idea on what you'll blog about. It's important to know who you're target audience will be and how you'll market the blog to them. Don't just act on you're first idea. Think about it for at least 3 days on what you will blog about, how you will approach it. What type of content will you provide? Ask yourself some of these questions.
1. How often will I blog? Will I blog weekly, a couple days a week or daily?
2. Will I have videos? If so how will I upload the videos?
3. Will my site be interviewing guests and doing reviews?
4. Am I trying to make money off this blog? How much space do I want for ad's etc?
5. Who is my target audience and how can I go beyond that, without losing the target audience?
These are some of the questions that you need to ask yourself. Answering them with a plan will help make the blog more successful. Get the pen and paper and start blueprinting.
Step 2 - The Look Of The Blog
For those who are blessed enough to have training in web designs then you can skip this step. For people who don't know anything about HTML, C++, etc. Read this step.
1. There are many sites that you can get templates for you're blog. The one that we went too was BTemplates. BTemplates has a variety of templates for many categories. They even include adapted templates from Wordpress. Note this site is used for people using blogger.
2. Wordpress users can check out Wordpress Themes Base. This site has over 92 pages of templates and it's FREE!
Step 3 - Blogging and Marketing
Now that you have you're blog face and the plan ready. It's time to get to work and put everything into action. The question at this point is how do you attract an audience. Well there are tons of ways to market yourself. You have social networks such as Twitter, Facebook and Myspace. You have sites like Youtube to help get you're face out there. Also there is Podcasting. So many ways to get you're blog know. Choose the best method that suits you. If you want big attention use all of these resources.
1. Make sure to submit the blog to every search engine site you think of, like Google, Yahoo, Bing etc.
2. Create a Facebook Fan Page for you're blog. Twitter and Myspace as well. Use the social network to you're advantage.
3. Use word of mouth. Have you're friends and family spread the word to everyone they know about you're blog.
4. This is very important. You must above all else have charisma. Keep you're readers entertained. Make whatever you are blogging about fun, original as possible and refreshing, that way they will subscribe and keep coming back.
5. Be consistent. You don't know how many bloggers are not consistent with their blog. It's important to interact with you're readers and post consistently.
Step 4 - How To Conduct Interviews?
Depending on what type of blog you have. You would want to conduct interviews with people who are popular in that field. How do you find the people you want to interview? Well don't expect to be interviewing people like Oprah anytime soon (unless you are bless like that).
1. Google to see if the person you would like to interview has an OFFICIAL website. Usually the official website has contact information. Email the contact with the subject Interview Opportunities. Email the possible interviewee with information on who you are, what you're site is about and if there is any current time in there schedule to do an interview. Also a little compliment won't hurt either. Don't get discourage if you don't hear a reply. Sometimes it takes months for people to get back to you (trust us we know!). When you have a date and time for the interview it's time to begin the process.
2. Research other interviews that the person has done. You don't want the person repeating themselves over and over again.
3. Keep you're questions clearly on topic. Leave their personal lives out of the interview it's none of you're business. If you are going to ask personal questions ask them ahead of time, so they can give a proper answer. You do not want to offend the person you are interviewing.
4. Do not do group or round table interviews. Make sure to make you're interviews one on one. You want to get the most out of an interview not just for you're readers but for the fans as well. Round table or group interviews you don't get all you're questions answer and you are limited to what you can ask. If the only interview you can get is group or round table with that person, then try again some other time.
5. Treat every interviewee the same. Everyone who is a guest at you're blog is a star. No one is too big and no one is too small. Make the interview exciting and fun.
Step 5 - Dealing With Teammates
If you're blog is not a single effort and you have a team then you need to lay some ground rules.
1. Everyone completes what they are assign to do.
2. There are no stars on the team. If you shine, everyone should shine.
3. Address everything with you're team. I mean everything if you're going to get AD money, let them know.
4. Keep you're teammates morale level high. Make them want to write on the blog.
5. Have fun.
Step 6 - Enjoyment
Final step is easy. Have fun!
