HELLO EVERYBODY!
Hard to believe it's only been a week since I first started this blog. I have to admit, at first I didn't think there was anyway I'd be writing consistently, but I have been, which has been a welcome surprise. I couldn't have made it here on my own, so I'm taking up some space on my blog to thank my friends for their support of my writing, and for always being there.
Thank You Scotty, Stephanie, Phu, Johnson, Elijah, Quincy, and Angela! You guys are all the best!
And thank you to anyone else who has read this blog. I appreciate you taking some time out of your day to see what I have to write. As an aspiring writer, it mean a lot.
Have A Wonderful Night Everybody!
Thursday, January 31, 2013
The Offensiveness Of "That's What She Said"
I can't remember the first time I heard the phrase "That's What She Said", but I know the I first time I saw it mentioned was on The Office. Everyone thought it was funny, but I never understood why. Sure, it was clever, but it wasn't hilarious, and it was offensive. For a long time people have been asking me why I think this, but if you have to ask why, then there must be something ignorant about you.
"That's What She Said" is offensive because it offends women and makes it seem like they think about sex all the time. Whether or not that's true, that doesn't mean it's something that you should say. It can be very hurtful, and it's just not good taste. It reminds me of the double standards society sets for men and women. The example they give in school all the time is if a guy has a lot of women, then he's big man on campus, but if a woman has a lot of guys around her, then she's a whore/prostitute/etc. It just isn't right, and people need to know that. Do guys just assume women want to do that all the time? What about homosexual men? They like men, so why don't you say that about them or your MOM who also likes men? They don't say it because they're "scared", it's gross, or offensive, but they're doing that to women when they say that. It just goes to show that most people who say stuff like this don't have a brain cause they never think about others. They just think about themselves and their dumb humor like it's funny, but when it's turned back on them, it's not so funny after all.
This bothers me a lot because I'm a feminist and think very highly of women. No, I don't have a girlfriend, but I don't think it's right to make up jokes about women or men cause sometimes things can be taken the wrong way. You may think I'm taking this too seriously, but if you don't believe me, try saying "That's What She Said" to a woman. Then you'll realize just how dumb this phrase and jokes aimed toward women are. You wouldn't want to be judged or made fun of all the time, so don't do it to women.
"That's What She Said" is offensive because it offends women and makes it seem like they think about sex all the time. Whether or not that's true, that doesn't mean it's something that you should say. It can be very hurtful, and it's just not good taste. It reminds me of the double standards society sets for men and women. The example they give in school all the time is if a guy has a lot of women, then he's big man on campus, but if a woman has a lot of guys around her, then she's a whore/prostitute/etc. It just isn't right, and people need to know that. Do guys just assume women want to do that all the time? What about homosexual men? They like men, so why don't you say that about them or your MOM who also likes men? They don't say it because they're "scared", it's gross, or offensive, but they're doing that to women when they say that. It just goes to show that most people who say stuff like this don't have a brain cause they never think about others. They just think about themselves and their dumb humor like it's funny, but when it's turned back on them, it's not so funny after all.
This bothers me a lot because I'm a feminist and think very highly of women. No, I don't have a girlfriend, but I don't think it's right to make up jokes about women or men cause sometimes things can be taken the wrong way. You may think I'm taking this too seriously, but if you don't believe me, try saying "That's What She Said" to a woman. Then you'll realize just how dumb this phrase and jokes aimed toward women are. You wouldn't want to be judged or made fun of all the time, so don't do it to women.
Umbrellas
Today when I went to class, I brought my umbrella with me because the forecast for the day predicted rain. It didn't rain while I was in class, but once I left, it was like a hurricane outside. The wind was bad, but the rain was even worse. I took out my umbrella when I saw how bad it was outside, but it did no good. The umbrella was slipping out of my hands, going inside out, and worst of all, it got me drenched. My umbrella got pretty wrecked in the fifteen minutes it took me to walk to my place, but that's why I'm not angry. I'm angry because umbrellas suck. They're never big enough (unless you're my friend Phu with one the size of a flying saucer), and they never keep me dry or warm. You'd think that after the X amount of years since it was invented, it would be improved by now, but it's clear it hasn't been. How is it that we live in a world where we can talk to people without calling them or have IPhones, yet was cannot even make a better umbrella? It befuddles me to the point of frustration, but I know umbrellas will never change. They've been like this for decades and will continue to be. But who knows, maybe they'll make an app for it in a few years.
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Soap
Washing my hands just isn't enough though. For my hands to feel really clean, I need to use soap. Doesn't matter what kind, as long as it kills a lot of bacteria and smells good. The annoying thing about soap though, is that when it comes in a bottle like the one above, eventually it runs out. Sometimes it will run out because you use it all, but for me, most of the time it runs out because the tube attached to the squeeze top above can't reach the bottom of the bottle. It's so frustrating to see you have a good amount of soap left in a bottle, only to push the squeeze top down and not get any. That is why I say to the manufacturer's to make the tube's longer, or make a better bottle that can get all the soap. Doing that may cost more money, but it will make us consumers feel like we're getting all that we paid for. And for someone with Mysophobia like me, it's something that would be greatly appreciated.
The Artist
The Artist (PG-13)
Grade: A+
- Directed by: Michel Hazanavicius
- Produced by: Thomas Langmann
- Screenplay by: Michel Hazanavicius
- Starring: Jean Dujardin (George Valentin), Berenice Bejo (Peppy Miller), Uggie (Jack The Dog), John Goodman (Al Zimmer), James Cromwell (Clifton), Missi Pyle (Constance), Penelope Ann Miller (Doris Valentin), Malcolm McDowell (The Butler)
- Cinematographer: Guillaume Schiffman
- Music by: Ludovic Bource
- Distributed by: Warner Bros (France), The Weinstein Company (US/AUS), Entertainment Film Distributors (UK)
- Released: May 23, 2011 (US), October 12, 2011 (France)
- Running Time: 100 minutes/1 hour and 40 minutes
- Language: French
Before seeing "The Artist", I had never seen a silent film before in my life. I had always wanted to see the films by Charlie Chaplin or Buster Keaton, but I never had enough money to buy them. By chance when I was with my dad, he bought "The Artist" because he heard rave reviews about it; I had heard all about the rave reviews and Oscars it got too, but I was skeptical because I didn't think a silent film could hold my attention the way a talking film could. After watching "The Artist" numerous times though, it's safe to say I was wrong.
"The Artist" starts off in 1927. George Valentin, the most popular silent film star of his time, has just done another smash-hit film. As he is posing for pictures one day, he is bumped into by a young woman named Peppy Miller. George laughs off what happens and takes a picture with her, only to have it posted as a front page tabloid, which causes friction in George's home and workplace. Eventually, Peppy gets a job as an extra at Kinograph Studios, where George works. She doesn't start out as much at first, but George offers his help to her. Unfortunately, that decision doesn't help George, who has to deal with Peppy's rising stardom, and talking films, which may jeopardize his film career.
For an Oscar winning film, "The Artist" has a plot that we've seen before, yet the film is wonderful because of the presentation of it. It's presented in black and white, which gives us a dreamlike sequence, and helps us focus on the acting in the film, instead of the distractions we'd normally have. The acting in the film is good from everyone, but Jean Dujardin steals the show. His look and charisma makes him look like he really could have been a successful silent film star of this time, and he's quite convincing with his facial features.
The thing that really puts "The Artist" over the top for me though is the soundtrack by Ludovic Bource. His soundtrack sets the tone for how effective this film is, from the scenes involving dancing, to the scenes of heartbreak. My favorite song from this film is "In The Stairs". I won't give too much away, but when this song is used, it's hard to not to shed a tear or feel for what's happening on screen. Soundtracks aren't usually huge pluses for me, but because this is a silent film, it was more necessary, which stood out to me more.
"The Artist" can be categorized as a lot of things: drama, comedy, tragedy, but it's really a romance in my mind, which is probably why I like it so much. I've been watching films for well over fifteen years, seeing good and bad romances, but I have never seen love presented the way it was in this film. Love was shown as simple, and the people cared about each other the way I think people in real life should, just wanting the best for someone. It's something I look for in my own life, which is why this film means so much to me because I didn't think a film like this could be possible now. Not just a good romance film, but a silent, black and white romance film, that captures elements of old Hollywood.
I know "The Artist" isn't "City Lights" by Charlie Chaplin, but no film is. This film is wonderful for it's time, and a film I hope stands the test of time because it really does educate people on how film's used to be. Some people have said that "The Artist" only won the Oscars it did because it was a silent film, but I don't think that's the case because if that was true, then why aren't there more silent films out now? It just goes to show that not every film can be that way, which is why I say, give "The Artist" a chance. If you see the film and dislike it, fine, it happens, but don't judge it without seeing it. Otherwise, you'll be missing one of the best films and love stories I've seen in a long time. If you're looking for a movie encompassing a lot, this movie is it.
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
The Critics I Hate
Has this ever happened to you before? You're out with someone you know wherever (home, friend's house, restaurant), and you order food, only to have the person you're with complain about it? Once in awhile if that happens, that would be okay, but when it happens as frequently as I've seen it done, it just gets annoying.
When did everyone become food critics? Did they get a job with some newspaper or magazine and not tell me? I can understand complaining about food if it's terribly made, or you go out to eat and the place stinks, but most of us are just ordinary people. It's not our job to rate food and restaurants, we're just supposed to eat it. If you order something and dislike it, don't complain about it, just think "I didn't like this one dish", or know what you want to order beforehand. That way if you're in the mood for something, you won't make the mistake of going to the wrong place.
Another thing I dislike is when people complain about food at a friend's house, since they're complaining about something that is free. It's a right to come into someone's home and eat their food. You're supposed to be grateful for that, not critique it. That person doesn't need to give you food. If anything, you can eat at your own damn house if you don't like it.
When did people become snobby know-it-all's when it comes to food? I understand their right to express themselves since they're paying money to cook at home or eat out, but just think about this, there are people all over the world who have no food, who would do anything for what we have, so be grateful. We have no idea what it's truly like to be hungry or have no food, which is why I say keep keep food critique's to a minimum. The world is already negative enough as it is. We don't need to keep contributing to the cause.
When did everyone become food critics? Did they get a job with some newspaper or magazine and not tell me? I can understand complaining about food if it's terribly made, or you go out to eat and the place stinks, but most of us are just ordinary people. It's not our job to rate food and restaurants, we're just supposed to eat it. If you order something and dislike it, don't complain about it, just think "I didn't like this one dish", or know what you want to order beforehand. That way if you're in the mood for something, you won't make the mistake of going to the wrong place.
Another thing I dislike is when people complain about food at a friend's house, since they're complaining about something that is free. It's a right to come into someone's home and eat their food. You're supposed to be grateful for that, not critique it. That person doesn't need to give you food. If anything, you can eat at your own damn house if you don't like it.
When did people become snobby know-it-all's when it comes to food? I understand their right to express themselves since they're paying money to cook at home or eat out, but just think about this, there are people all over the world who have no food, who would do anything for what we have, so be grateful. We have no idea what it's truly like to be hungry or have no food, which is why I say keep keep food critique's to a minimum. The world is already negative enough as it is. We don't need to keep contributing to the cause.
A Quick Word From KG
When life's got you down or feeling stressed, just feel the way my
boy Kevin Garnett does in this video: "ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE"! It's a
mindset I try to use all the time.
Early class today, so I don't have much besides that, but have a good day for now everybody!
Early class today, so I don't have much besides that, but have a good day for now everybody!
Monday, January 28, 2013
Django Unchained
Django Unchained (R)
Grade: C+
- Directed by: Quentin Tarantino
- Produced by: Stacey Sher, Reginald Hudlin, Pilar Savone
- Screenplay by: Quentin Tarantino
- Starring: Jamie Foxx (Django Freeman), Christoph Waltz (Dr. King Schultz), Leonardo DiCaprio (Calvin J. Candie), Kerry Washington (Broomhilda Von Shaft), Samuel L. Jackson (Stephen), Walter Goggins (Billy Crash), James Remar (Ace Speck/Butch Pooch)
- Cinematographer: Robert Richardson
- Studio: A Band Apart
- Distributed by: The Weinstein Company (USA), Columbia Pictures (International)
- Released: December 25, 2012 (USA), January 18, 2013 (UK)
- Running Time: 165 minutes/2 hours and 45 minutes
- Language: English
"Gentlemen, you had my attention, but now you have my curiosity."
-Calvin J. Candie
The words spoken above by Leonardo Dicaprio's character in "Django Unchained" represent how I feel before I watch any Quentin Tarantino film. I always expect blood, over the top violence, and intricate dialogue, but the thing I usually expect most is to be entertained. So far with "Reservoir Dogs", "Pulp Fiction", and "Inglorious Basterds", I haven't been disappointed, but I'm afraid the train stops with his latest film, which isn't terrible, but it isn't top-tier either.
The film starts off in 1858, where a group of slaves are being led by two white men known as the Speck Brothers. As the brothers are leading the slaves, they encounter Dr. King Schultz, a German dentist who wishes to purchase a slave. The brothers refuse to do business with Schultz, so he takes one of slaves by force, whose name is Django Freeman. Django was chosen by Schultz because he is a bounty hunter that needs some help finding outlaws. After collecting a bounty together, the two agree to partner up and go to plantations to find Django's wife, whom he was separated from when they got sold at a slave auction. When they finally find the plantation she's at, they find out the owner is crazy Calvin Candie, and that getting back Django's wife is going to be harder than it looks.
Like any Tarantino film, the atmosphere is perfectly set from the moment from the film starts rolling. The music is really engrossing, and sets the mood for the kick ass action that starts almost instantly. There's a wonderfulness to Christoph Waltz's character Schultz that I just love in this film. He's hilariously sarcastic with his actions, but at the same time, he shows he cares by partnering up with Django and teaching him how to act "white". The scenes with Schultz and Django together are terrific because of the chemistry and charisma Waltz and Foxx have together, which is why it's a shame when Schultz is gone for part of the film. When he leaves, Django means less to us since he is no longer a friend to anyone anymore and just a killer. Sure, we root for him because we want him to get his wife back, and we've seen him suffer throughout the whole film, but there's a difference between killing with a plan, and just killing for the hell of it. We've seen that before, and that makes the second half of "Django Unchained" predictable, unsatisfying, and long.
Added with that is what I view as laziness on Tarantino's part. The screenplay is decent, but there are major flaws with it. There's "Mandingo fighting", smart slaves/dumb slave owners, and scenes of little relevance like one involving a group of whites and bags. I'm all for scenes with violence or laughter, especially when it comes to Tarantino, but not when it's dragged out, irrelevant, or written poorly, which I thought that some scenes were. It was something I was extremely disappointed in, considering past Tarantino films could make me laugh or cringe without such obvious dialogue or presentation, like in "Pulp Fiction" (Marvin scene).
All in all," Django Unchained" isn't terrible, but it's not even close to his other three films I've seen. The screenplay is weak, the violence looks fake, the pacing is slow, and everything is predictable. When Jamie Foxx is on his own, they should have called the film "Django Chained" because he should stayed that way if he was just going to be another stereotypical killer, and not the hero he started out as.
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Ray Allen: A Lookback At A Hero's Departure and His Return
As Ray Allen walked off the court in Miami last year during the Eastern Conference Finals, I tried to figure out how he was feeling. Obviously, he was saddened and disappointed that his team lost to the Miami Heat after leading the best of 7 series 3-2, but the other thing I thought he must of been feeling was is this it? Is this the last time I'm going to be a Boston Celtic? When that loss happened, I thought there was no way the Celtics were bringing him back since they had Avery Bradley in the wing, but they did want him back. And they wanted him back a lot, offering him a supposed 2 year, 12 million dollar deal with a no trade clause, but Ray said no thanks. A decision that stunned all.
I was devastated by the news that my favorite Celtic was leaving, but I wasn't going to turn on him until I heard more details. Once I heard the details though, I was shocked. Ray Allen took less money to go to the Miami Heat, and play backup to Dwayne Wade, when he could have had more money and potentially started for the Celtics. It made no sense to me, but in hindsight, it did, because the Miami Heat were a better team. They had the best player in the league in Lebron James and arguably two other top 15 players, which catapulted them to the NBA title. That all made sense to me, but I still thought he'd stay since he always talked about how much he loved Boston. Then the other stories starting coming out.
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| Ray Allen and Rajon Rondo getting at it |
Behind closed doors, it was said Ray Allen and Rajon Rondo didn't get along because Rondo always followed him around, looked him off, or got too cocky as the team's best player. Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett were okay with it being Rondo's team, but Ray wasn't, which led to arguments and even fights supposedly. Once I heard this, it was no surprise why Ray left because as long as Rondo was going to be on the team, he wasn't.
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| Say it isn't so Ray. Ray Allen at his Miami Heat press conference |
Now that I knew all I needed to know, I braced myself for Ray Allen's press conference in Miami; it was hard to watch since he was in enemy colors and wearing a different number, but something about him was different. He looked relaxed and at peace with his decision, which I happy about, but in the Boston media and airwaves, people thought otherwise. They were saying all sorts of terrible things about Ray, like calling him a traitor or wishing something evil on his family. That is where I draw the line on Boston sports and their fans. I understand being passionate and being hurt by an athlete's decision to leave, but this is sports; it's a business and this happens all the time. Why are you wishing for someone to get hurt when all this person did was help you win a title, play hurt, and help out the community? Ray Allen is a good human being who was just making a decision that was best for his family. Is that wrong? People call him a traitor for leaving, but management always wanted to trade him, so how are they being loyal? If anything, it sounds like the Celtics and their fans are just sore losers cause they know the Miami Heat got better.
The NBA season started opening night when the Celtics played the Heat and lost 120-107. Ray Allen contributed 19 points, but the story of the game was that Kevin Garnett didn't acknowledge him, and he didn't acknowledge Rajon Rondo. They haven't crossed paths since then, but now they do today when Ray comes back to Boston for the first time in a Heat uniform. I know Boston and their fans won't cheer him on since they've done it for other athletes like Johnny Damon, but I will stand and cheer, since Ray Allen was, and will always be my favorite Celtic. Some people may call me an untrue fan for doing that, but I say f**k em'! There comes a time when people need to stop being sore losers. Boston fans say they're mad Ray Allen left, when they should be angry their team almost sucks as bad as the Lakers. Most Boston fans only want to remember the negative stuff, but I will be one fan who remembers the positive times. Thank you Ray Allen for everything you did for Boston! I'll be watching you today and cheering you on as you come back home.
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| The good times! (L-R) Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, and Paul Pierce after winning the first Celtics title in 26 years. |
Calvin and Hobbes
I used to love comic strips, but ever since Calvin and Hobbes and all the other comic strips I loved were disappearing from newspapers, I kept looking less and less. Hence why today, I'm starting off my day looking at the funnies just like the good ol' days. If you've never read Calvin and Hobbes before, it's something I highly recommend.
Saturday, January 26, 2013
My Top Magic School Bus Kids and Episodes
PBS was a big part of my childhood growing up since my family didn't, and still doesn't have cable. Because of that, I watched PBS nonstop as a kid, watching shows like Arthur, Wishbone, Bill Nye the Science Guy, Zoom, Sesame Street, Mister Rogers, etc. Besides Arthur, my go to show was The Magic School Bus because it was funny, and the class had a diverse cast. I knew it was educational, but I didn't appreciate that fact back then like I do now. Now that I do though, I realize it's one of the best educational shows of all time, and one you don't have to "force" people to watch as my friends say.
For those who don't know, The Magic School Bus series was about a group of students and their teacher who go on crazy field trips on their bus. Each field trip had to do with a scientific topic like erosion or the solar system.
Since I've explained everything enough, it seems, it's time to delve into this list.
Top Magic School Bus Kids
8. Phoebe- Phoebe is last because all she contributed to the show was her catchphrase "At my old school...", like we care what she did at her old school. Her routine got so tiring fast. Plus, she was too much of a tree hugger for my taste, and never in many good episodes.
7. Keesha- Keesha is like Phoebe, except she contributed something to the show, and is a good foil for Ralphie. She's levelheaded which I like, but she argues a lot too, which can be annoying if you're trying to have fun on a field trip. I understand Arnold does the same thing too, but he doesn't have an attitude like Keesha does.
6. Tim- Tim is here because he's here. He's nice, quiet, and occasionally does something relevant, but he never did enough for me to boost him up. You can tell he's a solid character guy though, which is always a plus.
5. Wanda- Wanda is fifth because she represents two sides of a person. One side of her is the pushy side that tells everyone to "Stop being such weasly wimps", but the other side is the caring side that helps people and wants to learn, like in the recycling episode. Because she's so interesting, and seems to get along with everyone overall, I place her fifth.
4. Carlos- Carlos is here because of his lame puns and the fact he's just really funny. I didn't like him much as a child, but I appreciate him now because he adds humor to the class, and is a foil to both Dorothy Ann and Keesha.
3. Arnold- This may be a surprise to some people since I know how annoying Arnold can be with his whining, but I like him since he's an honest, and even occasionally thinks of a way to get the class out of danger, like fighting the T-rex. His cousin Janet is annoying as hell though.
2. Ralphie- Ralphie is second because of his humor, and the fact he has the wildest imagination of the bunch, like being Weatherman. I wasn't like him in Elementary school, but I feel like if I could relive my life again, he'd be the closest one I resemble since I always have my head in the clouds.
1. Dorothy Ann- In what may be the upset of the century, Dorothy Ann is my favorite kid in Ms. Frizzle's class. She's annoying to some because of her book smarts, but I still like her because she's passionate, plays well as a foil, and is really cute. I had a crush on her as a child, so I guess I'm biased, but she was in some pretty great episodes.
Top 10 Magic School Bus Episodes
All of these episodes are ranked based on how interesting the topic was to me, and how enjoyable the episode was overall.
10. Plays Ball (Friction)- Ralphie wants to play baseball, but all Dorothy Ann wants to do is show everyone her new physics book. The compromise, the class goes inside Dorothy Ann's book to see what it'd be like to play a baseball game with no friction.
9. Spins A Web (Spiders)- The class is at an old drive in movie theater watching a boring movie. To make things more interesting, Ms. Frizzle transports them inside the movie, except when they get transported back out, they're the size of spider prey.
8. Out Of This World (Meteorites)- Dorothy Ann has a dream that Walkerville Elementary is about to be hit by a giant asteroid, so the class goes in their spaceship-bus to try and destroy it in this Star Trek themed episode.
7. Gets Ready, Set, Dough (Basic Chemistry)- It's Ms. Frizzle's birthday and the class wants to make her a cake, but they don't have one, so they go to the bakery. Only problem is that they're shrunken down when the bus acts up, and they have to avoid the baker.
6. In The City (Urban Wildlife)- The class is on a field trip to the zoo and ponders what it would be like to be animals. Because Ms. Frizzle loves the idea, she transforms them all into animals, but the bus becomes a grizzly bear being hunted down by the authorities, which could mean trouble for them.
5. Revving Up (Engines)- Mr. Junkit, the Vehicle Maintenance Inspector (VMI), says the bus has to go to the junkyard because it's a piece of junk, but the class vows to show him that the bus in still in working condition.
4. Makes A Stink (Smell)- The famous Flora Whiff comes to Walkerville Elementary to find the most wonderful scent. Ms. Frizzle's class thinks they have the competition it in the bag, but Arnold's cousin Janet isn't going to let them win until she gets her time alone with their scent.
3. Cold Feet (Reptiles)- Liz is gone from school and the class traces her to a place where reptiles go. To look for her, Ms. Frizzle has the class transformed into reptiles, but the other reptiles don't seem to enjoy the new company.
2. Makes A Rainbow (Color)- Ms. Frizzle shows the class a pinball machine she made that uses color. She has never made a rainbow before on it, but has to do it before the school principal comes. Otherwise, the pinball machine is his.
1. See's Star's (Star's)- It's Dorothy Ann's birthday and the class makes her a gift, but it breaks. Plan B for them, buying a star from an infomercial on TV, but Keesha is suspicious, so the class goes into space to look at each star individually.
For those who don't know, The Magic School Bus series was about a group of students and their teacher who go on crazy field trips on their bus. Each field trip had to do with a scientific topic like erosion or the solar system.
Since I've explained everything enough, it seems, it's time to delve into this list.
Top Magic School Bus Kids
8. Phoebe- Phoebe is last because all she contributed to the show was her catchphrase "At my old school...", like we care what she did at her old school. Her routine got so tiring fast. Plus, she was too much of a tree hugger for my taste, and never in many good episodes.
7. Keesha- Keesha is like Phoebe, except she contributed something to the show, and is a good foil for Ralphie. She's levelheaded which I like, but she argues a lot too, which can be annoying if you're trying to have fun on a field trip. I understand Arnold does the same thing too, but he doesn't have an attitude like Keesha does.
6. Tim- Tim is here because he's here. He's nice, quiet, and occasionally does something relevant, but he never did enough for me to boost him up. You can tell he's a solid character guy though, which is always a plus.
5. Wanda- Wanda is fifth because she represents two sides of a person. One side of her is the pushy side that tells everyone to "Stop being such weasly wimps", but the other side is the caring side that helps people and wants to learn, like in the recycling episode. Because she's so interesting, and seems to get along with everyone overall, I place her fifth.
4. Carlos- Carlos is here because of his lame puns and the fact he's just really funny. I didn't like him much as a child, but I appreciate him now because he adds humor to the class, and is a foil to both Dorothy Ann and Keesha.
3. Arnold- This may be a surprise to some people since I know how annoying Arnold can be with his whining, but I like him since he's an honest, and even occasionally thinks of a way to get the class out of danger, like fighting the T-rex. His cousin Janet is annoying as hell though.
2. Ralphie- Ralphie is second because of his humor, and the fact he has the wildest imagination of the bunch, like being Weatherman. I wasn't like him in Elementary school, but I feel like if I could relive my life again, he'd be the closest one I resemble since I always have my head in the clouds.
1. Dorothy Ann- In what may be the upset of the century, Dorothy Ann is my favorite kid in Ms. Frizzle's class. She's annoying to some because of her book smarts, but I still like her because she's passionate, plays well as a foil, and is really cute. I had a crush on her as a child, so I guess I'm biased, but she was in some pretty great episodes.
Top 10 Magic School Bus Episodes
All of these episodes are ranked based on how interesting the topic was to me, and how enjoyable the episode was overall.
10. Plays Ball (Friction)- Ralphie wants to play baseball, but all Dorothy Ann wants to do is show everyone her new physics book. The compromise, the class goes inside Dorothy Ann's book to see what it'd be like to play a baseball game with no friction.
9. Spins A Web (Spiders)- The class is at an old drive in movie theater watching a boring movie. To make things more interesting, Ms. Frizzle transports them inside the movie, except when they get transported back out, they're the size of spider prey.
8. Out Of This World (Meteorites)- Dorothy Ann has a dream that Walkerville Elementary is about to be hit by a giant asteroid, so the class goes in their spaceship-bus to try and destroy it in this Star Trek themed episode.
7. Gets Ready, Set, Dough (Basic Chemistry)- It's Ms. Frizzle's birthday and the class wants to make her a cake, but they don't have one, so they go to the bakery. Only problem is that they're shrunken down when the bus acts up, and they have to avoid the baker.
6. In The City (Urban Wildlife)- The class is on a field trip to the zoo and ponders what it would be like to be animals. Because Ms. Frizzle loves the idea, she transforms them all into animals, but the bus becomes a grizzly bear being hunted down by the authorities, which could mean trouble for them.
5. Revving Up (Engines)- Mr. Junkit, the Vehicle Maintenance Inspector (VMI), says the bus has to go to the junkyard because it's a piece of junk, but the class vows to show him that the bus in still in working condition.
4. Makes A Stink (Smell)- The famous Flora Whiff comes to Walkerville Elementary to find the most wonderful scent. Ms. Frizzle's class thinks they have the competition it in the bag, but Arnold's cousin Janet isn't going to let them win until she gets her time alone with their scent.
3. Cold Feet (Reptiles)- Liz is gone from school and the class traces her to a place where reptiles go. To look for her, Ms. Frizzle has the class transformed into reptiles, but the other reptiles don't seem to enjoy the new company.
2. Makes A Rainbow (Color)- Ms. Frizzle shows the class a pinball machine she made that uses color. She has never made a rainbow before on it, but has to do it before the school principal comes. Otherwise, the pinball machine is his.
1. See's Star's (Star's)- It's Dorothy Ann's birthday and the class makes her a gift, but it breaks. Plan B for them, buying a star from an infomercial on TV, but Keesha is suspicious, so the class goes into space to look at each star individually.
The awesome Magic School Bus intro sung by the great Little Richard
Question: Who are your favorite Magic School Bus kids? What are some of your favorite episodes?
Writer's Block
For the past couple of weeks and days, I've been trying to muster the energy to work on some personal writing, but something always gets in the way. I'm either too busy, distracted, or just tired, which is frustrating because I'm already so behind in it. My question to everybody is, what do they do when they have writer's block or have trouble focusing? I'm open to all ideas.
My Top Original DigiDestined
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| The Original Digidestined (Minus Kari). (L-R) T.K., Matt, Joe, Tai, Sora, Izzy, and Mimi |
Digimon Adventure (Season 1) is one of my favorite shows ever. As a child, I watched and loved Pokemon more, but Digimon has so many things about it that stand out now looking back. The show was animated beautifully for it's time. The 8 children and Digimon each had their own personality. And the show's whole first season was a continuous storyline with arcs in between, which made things much more interesting.
Since I love the first season of Digimon, I thought about which Digidestined were my favorite, which caused me to do this list.
8. Mimi- She's the cute and spoiled one of the group. Never saw her importance because all she did was whine.
7. T.K.- He's the youngest of the group and the one that needs to grow up the most. He cries a lot, which got on my nerves, but he showed many moments of maturity liked outsmarting Puppetmon on his own, which is one of my favorite Digimon episodes.
6. Sora- The most lovable one of the group. I'm neutral on Sora since I don't dislike her for any specific reason, but I don't want to rank her any higher either. I do like the fact that she is motherly though, and looks out for the rest of the group.
5. Kari- The most rounded of the bunch I think. I like her because she seemed to interact with every character well, and came during the most interesting arc of Season 1, the Miyotismon arc.
4. Matt- Known as the cool kid of the group with his looks and how laid back he is. There's nothing not to like about Matt besides his insecurity and the fact he always seems to ditch the people he's with. Not good leadership material.
3. Izzy- The smart one, nough' said. I love Izzy because he is independent, helpful, and seems to be one of the most realistic of the group. Plus, I felt for him during the first season when we learn about his parents. So sad.
2. Joe- He's the oldest of the group, and the most worrisome one. He gets on everyone's nerves at times, but you can tell everyone respects him since they come to him when they need help.
1. Tai- The leader of the group. He's my favorite Digidestined because he experiences everything in the first season, and seems to grow the most in my opinion.
Question: What is your favorite season of Digimon? Who are your favorite Digidestined?
Since I love the first season of Digimon, I thought about which Digidestined were my favorite, which caused me to do this list.
8. Mimi- She's the cute and spoiled one of the group. Never saw her importance because all she did was whine.
7. T.K.- He's the youngest of the group and the one that needs to grow up the most. He cries a lot, which got on my nerves, but he showed many moments of maturity liked outsmarting Puppetmon on his own, which is one of my favorite Digimon episodes.
6. Sora- The most lovable one of the group. I'm neutral on Sora since I don't dislike her for any specific reason, but I don't want to rank her any higher either. I do like the fact that she is motherly though, and looks out for the rest of the group.
5. Kari- The most rounded of the bunch I think. I like her because she seemed to interact with every character well, and came during the most interesting arc of Season 1, the Miyotismon arc.
4. Matt- Known as the cool kid of the group with his looks and how laid back he is. There's nothing not to like about Matt besides his insecurity and the fact he always seems to ditch the people he's with. Not good leadership material.
3. Izzy- The smart one, nough' said. I love Izzy because he is independent, helpful, and seems to be one of the most realistic of the group. Plus, I felt for him during the first season when we learn about his parents. So sad.
2. Joe- He's the oldest of the group, and the most worrisome one. He gets on everyone's nerves at times, but you can tell everyone respects him since they come to him when they need help.
1. Tai- The leader of the group. He's my favorite Digidestined because he experiences everything in the first season, and seems to grow the most in my opinion.
The theme song of Digimon Adventure, showing all of the Original Digidestined
Question: What is your favorite season of Digimon? Who are your favorite Digidestined?
My Top 20 Recess Episodes
The premise of the show focused on the lives of six fourth graders at Third Street School. They were comprised of...
- T.J. Deweiler: Leader of the gang and school prankster
- Ashley Spinelli: Tomboy and protector of the weak
- Vince LaSalle: Athlete and one of the most popular kids in school
- Gretchen Grundler: Genius
- Mikey Blumberg: Gentle giant and poet
- Gus Griswald: Shy and new kid
Honorable Mentions
- Teacher's Lounge
- The Candidates
- Omega Kids
- Chez Vince
- Economics of Recess
19. Bonky Fever- Mikey is turning the big Ten-O, but for some reason he's depressed. Could something be on his mind? The gang goes to great measures to figure it out. This episode cracks the list because Bonky is a memorable image, and it's sweet at the end with Mikey and his mom. Speaks truth about real life and moving on.
18. Weekend at Muriel's- Spinelli is spending the weekend at Miss Finster's after a run in at the supermarket. Can she survive the weekend? I like this episode because of the gang witnessing Spinelli doing the hula at the end. As T.J. says, "Guys, we will never speak of this".
17. The Game- A new sensation is sweeping over Third Street School. Is it good or is it bad? This episode is great because it parodies Pokemon hilariously and perfectly. The game makes no sense, yet everyone can't stop playing it.
16. Big Brother Chad- The gang meets Vince's idol, his big brother Chad. They find out he's a geek, but Vince is oblivious to this fact. I picked this episode because I could relate having a brother of my own, and I love Vince's over-exaggerating. NEAT-O!
15. Soccer Boy- Third Street School is having a soccer tournament, and the gang is forming a team, but they leave Mikey out, forcing him to team with Lawson. I love this episode because it shows somebody teaming with one of the enemies for once, and it shows a lot of soccer, which Recess is really about.
14. The Ratings Game- The Ashley's hatch a new scheme of theirs by giving everyone envelopes with a number in them. What could they mean? I love this episode because it accurately portrays how important popularity is in school, and it makes me laugh a lot. Can't forget the ending either, where everybody's a 10.
13. This Brain For Hire- Gretchen wants a new bike, but she can't afford one, so the gang arranges for her to tutor some kids. The thing is, she's just doing their homework for them. This episode stands out because of the end, where everyone learns something, and Gretchen gets her bike at the expense of Miss Grotke's car.
12. Gus's Last Stand- Gus has to face Gelman the school bully after he makes him his new target. I love this episode because of two scenes. The first one is when it shows Gus disguised as an old man playing tether-ball, and the other reason is when Gus's father tells him about Belgium and WWI. CLASSIC line!
11. The Rules- After discovering the rulebook of the previous king of the playground, everyone at school must follow the rules. Only problem is they're outdated. I like this episode because it shows everyone playing their games to hilarious results. "Gelman, get the stump".
10. Buried Treasure- T.J. finds a book that has a map to hidden treasure. He tells the gang, but they aren't the only ones who want a piece of it. This episode stands out to me because of the ending, which shows the lesson that you should appreciate what you have, even if it isn't much.
9. A Great State Fair- Gus is going to his first state fair, but he misplaces his permission slip. T.J. is devastated, but vows he'll find a way to get him there somehow. I love this episode because of the hilarity of it, like T.J. trying to bribe Miss Grotke, T.J thinking a dove is a pigeon, and Gus doing the otter dance. "My old man don't believe in otters".
8. Space Cadet- Gretchen gets a letter that says she's going on the next space shuttle. Since T.J. has always dreamed of that, he and the rest of the gang help Gretchen train. This episode is memorable because of everyone's specific training method, and the shocking revelation at the end. Plus, can't forget Buzz Aldrin.
7. Old Folk's Home- The gang plans on going to SeniorFusionFest on a Saturday, but Mikey already scheduled to them to go to an old folk's home. The gang isn't happy about it, but they're in for a surprise when they go. I like this episode because of the individual time each gang member gets with someone at the home, and it's sweet.
6. The Barnaby Boys- After reading a set of detective books, T.J., Vince, and the rest of the gang become detectives, trying to figure out where a new mysterious custodian at their school came from. This episode is memorable because I enjoyed it so much as a child. Plus, who doesn't like a good mystery on Recess, which appears to happen quite frequently.
5. Tucked In Mikey- Mikey becomes the first poet laureate at Third Street School. Because of that, he must organize his poem's and write a new one, but Menlo's organization appears to be too much. I love this episode because of Mikey's terrible poem, and the brilliant one he says at the end, which shows the importance of friendship.
4. My Fair Gretchen- Gretchen passes a test that few pass, and is about to be transferred to a new gifted school, but she and the others don't want that to happen, so they try to pass her off as dumb. I like this episode because it parodies My Fair Lady well, and I like the extent the others try to make Gretchen look dumb.
3. The Voice- Mikey is asked to sing the National Anthem for Third Street School, but has stage fright, so Principal Prickley and Miss Finster hire a music teacher for him who really turns that around. This episode is one of my top three for Robert Goulet's appearance as the singing voice, the song at the end, and it tackles love, which I'm a sucker for.
2. The Substitute- Miss Grotke gets a routine operation and is replaced by Mr. E, a mysterious new teacher that everyone is enamored with, except for T.J. I love this episode because I love the back and forth between T.J. and Mr. E, and the fact Mr. E is a character with so many layers.
1. Officer Mikey- Mikey's dream is to be a safety ranger, but after he makes a fool of himself, the captain says there's no way Mikey is getting in. Mikey is down, but the gang goes at great lengths make his dream come true. This is my favorite episode of Recess because of the humor, and we get to see other character's dream's on the show, which leads to a hilarious surprise at the end.
Question: What's your favorite episode of Recess?
Friday, January 25, 2013
Moderate As President?
Whenever someone asks me what political party I side with, I pause. Growing up and living in Massachusetts, I know I'm supposed to say I'm a Democrat all the way, but there are some days when I feel Republican. Because I flip flop back and forth, I consider myself a moderate on the important issues. I won't air those out now, but it made me question what would happen if a moderate person were elected President? I think a majority of the population wouldn't be for it, but if people are so dissatisfied by the way Democrats and Republicans have run the country, why is it so outrageous? Moderates are usually in the middle.
I know by the way I presented this, I'm simplifying the discussion, but that's only so people can think about it or talk it over. People may think a moderate as President is crazy or will never happen, but they said the same thing about an African American being President, and now it's happened. So why can't this?
I know by the way I presented this, I'm simplifying the discussion, but that's only so people can think about it or talk it over. People may think a moderate as President is crazy or will never happen, but they said the same thing about an African American being President, and now it's happened. So why can't this?
Superman: The Movie Score
One of my favorite film scores of all time comes from John Williams. That's probably no surprise considering he has been composing scores for almost fifty decades, but the film score of his I love the most is the one he did for "Superman: The Movie". All the songs in the film are great, but as anyone who has seen the film can attest to, the Main Title March for the opening credits is the best one. The song has everything. It's exhilarating, loud, and really works well with the film's setup, giving Superman a voice and soul throughout. Ever since I heard it as a child to now, I've felt like flying or saving somebody. I know I obviously can't do those things, but if a piece of music can make someone feel like that, then you know it has to be good.
Just listen and take it all in
100 Years At The Movies
This video is one of my favorite videos from Turner Classic Movies (TCM). It shows a montage of movie clips from their existence all the way up to 1994, when it was first originally aired. This montage represents the type of actors, actresses, and movies I love. Movies that can never be recreated again. It's simply wonderful.
Hope everyone enjoys this as much as I have!
Hope everyone enjoys this as much as I have!
My Upcoming Film Reviews
I have a passion for writing, but not far behind that is films. I want to be a published author when I get older, but if somehow that doesn't work out, I wouldn't mind being a film critic because it mixes two things I love, and it seems like something anyone can do (at least from what some people say). I don't know all there is to know about films, but I know a ton from my countless hours of research, collecting, and following I've done from my favorite film critics like James Berardinelli and Roger Ebert. I'm just a fan wants to get his opinion out there, so hopefully everyone is supportive and respectful of what I have to say.
Before I post anything though, here's a few things you should know about me when it comes to films...
I'm not home or near any of my films right now, so it may be awhile before I post an actual review, but be patient everyone. Thanks for reading!
Before I post anything though, here's a few things you should know about me when it comes to films...
- Most of the films I like and own are pre-1991, the year I was born.
- I love "classic films" from black and whites ones to musicals. You can define classics however you want.
- I mostly own Oscar films to see how they hold up to my opinion.
- I rarely go see a film in theaters because of my financial constraints and cynicalness I have when it comes to today's films. I know that sounds snobby, but there's not much I can change about that.
I'm not home or near any of my films right now, so it may be awhile before I post an actual review, but be patient everyone. Thanks for reading!
Disney vs. Miyizaki
Whether or not you pay attention to movies, I think it's a safe bet to say that everyone has seen at least one Disney film in their lives. The first one I saw was the Lion King, but now that I'm older, my taste has changed. I won't say what my favorite Disney film is; I just wanted to know what people thought of Disney films compared to Miyizaki films, the animated films from Japan. I don't know a whole lot about Miyizaki to be perfectly honest, but his films such as Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro are considered masterpieces by critics. I own a few of his films and agree that they are very well done, but how do they stack up against Disney films? I grew up with Disney, so I admit that there's a bias towards it, but anyone who watches a Miyizaki film can't tell me it's not more intellectual or thrilling for the senses. So that's why I want to know, do people like Disney films more than Miyizaki films? And how do they compare, if at all? I know this isn't a competition, but it's something I've always been fascinated in as a fan of animation and movies.
MLK
Ever since I was little, whenever I was taught about US history, I was always stopped by Martin Luther King Jr. His life seemed to be no mystery to me as a child, but as I got older, I wondered the truth about his death like so many others in history (JFK). He died in 1968, which was 45 years ago (if my math isn't wrong), yet we still honor him today, which I greatly approve of. My question is why we don't know more about him as a whole despite his birthday and day passing by recently? I mean we know a lot about Rosa Parks, and even know enough about Malcolm X through the various books and movies on him, yet I can't even recall a significant book or movie about Martin Luther King Jr. in recent memory. This could all be because I'm from the younger generation, but it has always piqued my curiosity.
Anyways, this post was just to vent that small thing, and to show everyone this video Our Friend, Martin. Our Friend, Martin was a 1998 animated children's educational film about two friends who travel back in time to the days of Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights movement. I saw it as a child back in Elementary school, but only rediscovered it recently after thinking about Martin Luther King Jr. I admit that it may be hard to take seriously because it's animated, but it's moving, and uses real history and facts to help the plot move. Sure, it's aimed toward children, but like I said in the other blog about TV shows, it's better to instill these things in children early. Otherwise, they may never learn about the important people or facts in history. I'm usually not a fan of educational movies since most of the time they're terrible, but this one is different. Hope anyone who see's this enjoys!
Question: Are there any other historical figures in history that you think people should learn more about?
Anyways, this post was just to vent that small thing, and to show everyone this video Our Friend, Martin. Our Friend, Martin was a 1998 animated children's educational film about two friends who travel back in time to the days of Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights movement. I saw it as a child back in Elementary school, but only rediscovered it recently after thinking about Martin Luther King Jr. I admit that it may be hard to take seriously because it's animated, but it's moving, and uses real history and facts to help the plot move. Sure, it's aimed toward children, but like I said in the other blog about TV shows, it's better to instill these things in children early. Otherwise, they may never learn about the important people or facts in history. I'm usually not a fan of educational movies since most of the time they're terrible, but this one is different. Hope anyone who see's this enjoys!
Question: Are there any other historical figures in history that you think people should learn more about?
Thursday, January 24, 2013
This Weather...
The weather this Winter has been ridiculous in Boston and in other parts of Massachusetts I have been in the previous month. If it's not snowing, there's freezing rain, cloudiness, or a sun that seems to be taunting everyone as they go outside. I despise the fact that the sun is out, yet it is freezing outside because of the wind chill. Like today for instance, I think it was 8 degrees in the morning, but -13 degrees counting the wind chill, which is ridiculous. Why should people have to go to school or work in weather that makes it so hard to commute? For me, the weather has been so bad that my hands dry out and bleed, or I have trouble breathing. I try and bundle up, but I still feel like I'm getting burned to death. It sucks, but this is weather in Massachusetts. It could be worst I suppose; I could be living in Wisconsin, Colorado, or Alaska, where the temperature is really bad and unpredictable.
Until things get better, all I can do is wait the six months til Summer. It's not my most favorite season, but anything has to be better than feeling like you're going to die every morning when you get out of bed.
Until things get better, all I can do is wait the six months til Summer. It's not my most favorite season, but anything has to be better than feeling like you're going to die every morning when you get out of bed.
Sacramento Should Keep It's Kings!
I live in Boston and follow all of their sports teams like any diehard fan would, but because I'm young, play all the latest games, and go online all the time, I follow all the other sports teams too. One of the teams I love to death is the Sacramento Kings, which surprises all of my friends. To be honest, I'm surprised I liked them too, but they hooked me in right away with their talent, fighting spirit, and passionate fan-base.
Their team has been in the news a lot recently because of the rumor that they're moving to Seattle. I understand the methodology from the standpoint of the NBA and the Maloof Brothers to move because of the revenue from TV, fans, and the fact that Seattle is just a bigger sports town, but that doesn't mean it's right for the Kings to leave. They've been a staple in Sacramento for so long from the days of being the Royals to the Chris Webber days. The fans were supportive of them throughout their struggles to their pastures, so why should they have to suffer now without even having a say. I understand basketball and that sports is just a business, but sometimes the rich owners and players need to step back and connect with the fans who helped make the team what they are today.
You may not know a lot about the Kings, but their team is youthful and exciting with the right mix of veterans. They have Demarcus Cousins, one of the best and most talented young Centers in the NBA. Added onto that, they have my boy Tyreke Evans, former Rookie of the Year (2009). He takes a lot of crap because he has sort of regressed since his rookie year, but he's been injured so much since then and asked to play many different roles, which I don't think many players would be willing to do. Regardless of what people say, I love him and his handles. Plus, he hits a ton of half-court shots. Then there's Isiah Thomas, the humble, dyanamic point. Jimmer Fredette plays the role of pinpoint shooter. The list goes on and on with Jason Thompson, Marcus Thornton, John Salmons, Thomas Robinson, Chuck Hayes, etc. The point is that their team still attracts fans to remain popular. Maybe they may not have the largest attendance, but their fans come, and they try really hard compared to teams we know that suck like Toronto or Charlotte. I mean, I can't even take their jerseys seriously.
Their team has been in the news a lot recently because of the rumor that they're moving to Seattle. I understand the methodology from the standpoint of the NBA and the Maloof Brothers to move because of the revenue from TV, fans, and the fact that Seattle is just a bigger sports town, but that doesn't mean it's right for the Kings to leave. They've been a staple in Sacramento for so long from the days of being the Royals to the Chris Webber days. The fans were supportive of them throughout their struggles to their pastures, so why should they have to suffer now without even having a say. I understand basketball and that sports is just a business, but sometimes the rich owners and players need to step back and connect with the fans who helped make the team what they are today.
You may not know a lot about the Kings, but their team is youthful and exciting with the right mix of veterans. They have Demarcus Cousins, one of the best and most talented young Centers in the NBA. Added onto that, they have my boy Tyreke Evans, former Rookie of the Year (2009). He takes a lot of crap because he has sort of regressed since his rookie year, but he's been injured so much since then and asked to play many different roles, which I don't think many players would be willing to do. Regardless of what people say, I love him and his handles. Plus, he hits a ton of half-court shots. Then there's Isiah Thomas, the humble, dyanamic point. Jimmer Fredette plays the role of pinpoint shooter. The list goes on and on with Jason Thompson, Marcus Thornton, John Salmons, Thomas Robinson, Chuck Hayes, etc. The point is that their team still attracts fans to remain popular. Maybe they may not have the largest attendance, but their fans come, and they try really hard compared to teams we know that suck like Toronto or Charlotte. I mean, I can't even take their jerseys seriously.
An example of Kings fans at their best and craziest
All in all, I say, keep the Kings in Sacramento. Maybe they aren't the 1996 Bulls, but their fans don't deserve another year of their heart potentially being broken. The NBA shouldn't have moved a team from Seattle in the first place; I just hope they don't make the same mistake again. Otherwise, they will be losing one of the most admirable fan-bases I've seen in a long time. As their great commentators Grant and Jerry say "If You Don't Like That, Then You Don't Like KINGS/NBA Basketball"! Hopefully I, and other Kings fans will hear that for many years to come.
Grant and Jerry's emotional sign-off brings a tear to my eye, and shows how much the Kings have meant to them and Sacramento
Questions: What do you think of the Kings relocating to Seattle? Do you
think it's a good or bad idea? Also, if you had the choice to build an
NBA franchise anywhere in the United States, where would you put one?
TV Ain't What It Used To Be!
This past Winter break, I bought a few old "classics" from my childhood that had come out on DVD. Digimon was my first purchase, followed by The Magic School Bus. They were great shows when I was a kid, but I was a kid. I didn't think I could tell the difference from what was good back then, so when I re-watched the shows for the first time in years, I was blown away by the animation, plot, music, and entertainment value. Today's shows maybe different from what's on now, but that's the point. They just don't make shows like they used to anymore.
Children's entertainment may be the best example of where this decline is most evident. Discounting the two shows I already previously mentioned, when I grew up, we had networks like PBS, WB, Fox, ABC, and UPN all airing quality shows. The list of my most favorite/memorable is pretty long, but listing them (in no particular order), there was Pokemon, Recess, Arthur, Weekenders, Static Shock, Batman Beyond, Superman The Animated Series, Batman the Animated Series, Monster Rancher, Mucha Lucha, Yu-Gi-Oh, Animaniacs, Carmen Sandiego, Bill Nye the Science Guy, Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers, Wishbone, and so many more. That's just for people who have only had public television like myself. Others with Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon have many other choices, I'm sure. Some people reading this may think what's the point, but the point is that these shows for children had lessons and were entertaining. We can't say that about the children's shows on now. Most of the time, we can't even finish them.
NBC was ahead of it's time by airing live action shows on Saturdays that were geared toward kids and young adults known as TNBC. Their shows like Saved By The Bell, California Dreams, and City Guys showed how to handle adult situations such as friendship, sex, etc. The shows were created for kids to learn from and grow off of, and I think they succeeded because I still remember all those shows and those lessons I learned, which have made me the person I am today. Sure, the shows maybe poorly written or look bad to some by today's standards, but the way it made people feel when they were actually on is something that can't be repeated.
Children's entertainment may be the best example of where this decline is most evident. Discounting the two shows I already previously mentioned, when I grew up, we had networks like PBS, WB, Fox, ABC, and UPN all airing quality shows. The list of my most favorite/memorable is pretty long, but listing them (in no particular order), there was Pokemon, Recess, Arthur, Weekenders, Static Shock, Batman Beyond, Superman The Animated Series, Batman the Animated Series, Monster Rancher, Mucha Lucha, Yu-Gi-Oh, Animaniacs, Carmen Sandiego, Bill Nye the Science Guy, Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers, Wishbone, and so many more. That's just for people who have only had public television like myself. Others with Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon have many other choices, I'm sure. Some people reading this may think what's the point, but the point is that these shows for children had lessons and were entertaining. We can't say that about the children's shows on now. Most of the time, we can't even finish them.
NBC was ahead of it's time by airing live action shows on Saturdays that were geared toward kids and young adults known as TNBC. Their shows like Saved By The Bell, California Dreams, and City Guys showed how to handle adult situations such as friendship, sex, etc. The shows were created for kids to learn from and grow off of, and I think they succeeded because I still remember all those shows and those lessons I learned, which have made me the person I am today. Sure, the shows maybe poorly written or look bad to some by today's standards, but the way it made people feel when they were actually on is something that can't be repeated.
The First of Hopefully Many
HELLO EVERYBODY!
If you're reading this, than that means I got something right with technology for once. I'm still getting the hang of everything, but so far, everything looks good. I hope in time to master blogging because there's a lot I think I have to offer to the world, whether it's my opinion, or what I'm doing for the day. I first want to thank my friends Scotty, Phu, and Quincy for giving me the idea to start a blog and put my ideas out there. Added onto them, are all the other people, who are so big in number, that I wouldn't be able to name all of them. Anyways, this is just practice. I'll have something up soon, so I hope that you enjoy whatever I post on my new blog.
-Matt Toy
If you're reading this, than that means I got something right with technology for once. I'm still getting the hang of everything, but so far, everything looks good. I hope in time to master blogging because there's a lot I think I have to offer to the world, whether it's my opinion, or what I'm doing for the day. I first want to thank my friends Scotty, Phu, and Quincy for giving me the idea to start a blog and put my ideas out there. Added onto them, are all the other people, who are so big in number, that I wouldn't be able to name all of them. Anyways, this is just practice. I'll have something up soon, so I hope that you enjoy whatever I post on my new blog.
-Matt Toy
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