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#cute and sad and funny and frustrating and sweet and tragic
atopearth · 10 months
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Piofiore: Episodio 1926 Part 2 - Orlok Route
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I don't really remember liking Orlok's original route but I do remember being very frustrated with it haha. Raul is hot. I completely forgot that they're not in Burlone and are in hiding. I wonder what will happen now since they want Orlok to go back and fulfil his disciple duties. Kinda cute seeing Lili and Orlok take care of kids at the church though, they're so sweet. I'm glad Orlok realised that leaving Lili here by herself is dangerous as well and that it would be better for her to be next to him so he can protect her. OH, I didn't realise that Dante died as well, is everyone dead or something?? Well I guess they are... Anyway, didn't expect Raul to be a distant relative of Dante, is that why he's hot? Okay, Gil is alive🥲 One thing I do remember is Luca's death. I didn't remember that it was in this route, but now that they're visiting Luca's grave..then yeah, it's terrible to think about. Luca was so young and full of life... Honestly though, I can't even blame Leo for hating Orlok because I remember when I finished Orlok's route, I hated him too haha! Maybe not as much as the Gil in his route but I still did! I've kinda come to terms with the whole thing but yeah...still sad to think about how Orlok killed them. I'm glad Henri is helping out, even if just temporarily, I like the update on all the Mafia families because I needed it for a refresh haha!
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It's quite sweet to see that Henri wants to help them because he doesn't want to see another Key Maiden suffer, very understandable. Seeing Orlok really appreciate having someone like Lili want him to live and live with him regardless of their "sins" brings a tear to my eye though. The boy has suffered alot regardless of how I feel about everyone's deaths and it's sad to think about his life because it's just terrible. Dita degli apostoli looks so good (after googling). It's funny that Lili is the one more self-conscious about Orlok but I guess that's to be expected considering Orlok's life. Well, Johann isn't cute at all~ Raul just keeps looking more and more hot though. I hate seeing Leo be suffering in such anguish, it's just so sad. Especially when he remembers how kind Nicola and Dante was to him. Gil being Gil and not the crazy Gil is always welcome, loved how thoughtful he was to have Orlok and Lili have a cute gelato date. Orlok protecting Leo and not wanting to kill anymore kinda reminded me of Rurouni Kenshin haha, just that painful lesson of learning what it means to kill people and how much pain it causes to others, and then not wanting to do it ever again, that feeling just really pierces my heart. Lmao when Orlok said he would eat more so he can grow and be as big as Gil so Lili can rely on him haha! It was so nice to see Gil adopt Leo into his house lol. Oliver being obsessed with the greatness of potatoes is hilarious. I'm glad Orlok told Lili that she is who she is regardless of the fact that she's the key maiden. She shouldn't be burdened by something that doesn't define her.
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Anyway, Raul was a disappointing guy, and I felt so bad for Oliver but at least he could joke about his injuries, he's very strong for mainly being the lawyer treasurer guy of the family! I feel like Johann ended up being dealt with as a side plot at the end even though it felt like he should have been the main plot lol. Seems like Emilio reincarnates with his memories all the time as the guardian of the Falzone or something, and really wants to properly die so hope he rests in peace. Lili and Orlok going to Venice and travelling around is quite cute. Orlok's tragic ending was pretty cruel. I felt so bad for him that he had to keep killing and killing to protect Lili. I wonder why Teo hates Lili so much but anyway, this ending was just full of torment for Orlok as he had to go against his convictions and kill again. I'm glad that Lili didn't listen to Orlok at the end and instead chose to die together with him because she wanted to bear everything he has to bear as well.
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Overall, I feel like Orlok's route had good ideas but it didn't seem to really focus much on either one - being the existence of Raul as the new Falzone leader, Johann the new disciple wanting revenge for his brother and Leo wanting revenge for Dante and Nicola. Raul was definitely the most disappointing because he barely had a role and basically did nothing and was just a pawn for the tragic ending. Johann had a better role and I enjoyed how he had a proper reason for wanting revenge even though we don't really know his brother and the trial and the church was at fault, not Orlok but it was understandable since they're all brainwashed into blaming everything else except the church. But it was still kinda a weak story especially in the good ending when Johann feels like an afterthought even though they focused quite a bit on him in the beginning of the route. Leo was definitely the one who had the best reason, mainly because we got to see flashbacks of how much Dante and Nicola meant to him, but also because throughout the game, we've seen how much they mean to Leo and how happy he was with them, so I honestly couldn't help but agree with that desire for revenge. It's terrible, it's painful and it was just hard to watch Leo be so tormented. But I guess no one was as tormented as Orlok as he did all he could to not kill people anymore but everyone really wants to test his limits and make him break his conviction. Personally, I quite liked the tragic ending because it was interesting to see Orlok's pain and how difficult it was for him to handle the idea of "needing to kill" again. But otherwise, I enjoyed the little dates Orlok and Lili went on, I just kinda wished there was more romance because it felt like there was no romantic progression at all!
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lovecolibri · 2 years
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Things that Spark Joy-4x05
There was...a LOT going on in this episode so lets talk about the good things for now, and then, if you’re a little salty like me, head over to this post for the bad, frustrating, and downright non-sensical things!
The blue flame is cool looking! And I’ve really enjoyed having Riley back as Cam but also as one of Tezca’s faces. She’s been a delight to watch and I WISH we could have seen her as Tezca and Nathan as Jones play off each other. Her and Liz had some good scenes too which, while being made a little weird by the writers bringing up Cam’s season 1 stint of being in love with Max (instead of just letting it be since it wasn’t addressed in season 2 when it should have been and makes no sense to bring up now), were still fun to watch and Jeanine and Riley work well together as these characters.
Max and Michael having so bro-chat time is always nice to see, especially when it ended with “go team” instead of devolving into a fight like is usually does.
We also got our Alex name-drop for the episode and another little peek at Michael’s growth in letting Alex in more 🥺
The Dallas flashback was cool and I like getting a little more alien lore! (though maybe they shouldn’t have planted the tree quite so close to the water line? I feel like the tree would run into the spout as it got bigger). 
I did find it funny when Max yanked Cam!Tezca into the mindscape like “worstie I wanna talk now!” And we got a shovel fight?! This show remains unhinged. But also I could just hear Emperor Palpatine’s voice the whole time like “Good! Use your aggressive feelings, boy. Let the hate flow through you!” because that’s the kind of vibe I got from Cam!Tezca’s smirk. Again, Riley was a lot of fun in that role.
Also, alien lore! Ophiuchus is a...movement? Not a person? Still unclear but it’s nice to see season 1 things coming back around!
The star map is super cool and I love seeing Michael getting more info about his home planet and after all those years of looking up, finally knowing exactly where it is. 😭😭😭
As much as I do not particularly care about them, Clyde buying Bonnie the guitar was sweet. IDC what she says about him being her brother, dude is absolutely in love with her.
Michael getting sick has me INTRIGUED!!
Kybel STOLE the good stuff for this episode! Isobel breezing in like she owns the place and Kyle picking the smallest weapon off the wall of weapons did legit make me laugh. I’m sad we missed SEEING them be surgery partners but their clean up banter was on point. Flustered, nervous Kyle is everything. Watching them investigate things was cute too and I loved the line Isobel had about Kyle’s family protecting hers all this time. 🥺 I also laughed about Sonya just wondering around picking up skulls and passing them out like candy 🤣. Her banter with Isobel was good too. 
Then of course we have Isobel in THAT dress (😍), them finally getting their missing dance from last season (still waiting on Malex to get theirs!),  Kyle calling Isobel beautiful inside and out, and finally that (tragically cut short per Lily) KISS! Good for them! I have some salty thoughts on the journey to get here because the journey matters, but we DID get there and I’m excited to see where this leads going into the back half of the season. 
Link to previous episode posts: 4x01, 4x02, 4x03, 4x04
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kitlaurie · 3 years
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Sharing my Boromir Lives thoughts has led me to the realization that a lot of my lotr/hobbit ideas really just boil down to taking a popular Fix-It trope and making it heartbreaking in a totally different way
Because a while ago I became strangely attached to this idea of a Thorin Lives au where Bilbo returns to the Shire still thinking Thorin died and Thorin goes to him a few years later to finally confess his love
But Bilbo's already taken
Turns out taking in a much younger than he really was in canon Frodo actually just made Bilbo even more of an Eligible Bachelor by Hobbit Standards and he met a nice widower and decided hey maybe settling down isn't so bad (because it's the Shire. Settling Down is what you do.)
So now Bilbo has this nice and sweet and funny hobbit husband who's ruining everything
Bilbo's husband: Dear, I don't think your dwarf friends like me very much...
Bilbo: What? I know they can seem a little gruff, but I'm sure they'll warm up to you. Just give them some time.
~meanwhile~
Thorin: (Having a silent breakdown)
Dwalin: I'm not saying I would kill him for you... But do you want me to kill him?
(and also lots of angst over the headcanon that dwarves take the idea of soulmates very seriously and hobbits just don't)
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yukiwhitetm · 2 years
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Thoughts on Life is Strange: True Colors and Wavelengths
This part of the review contains no spoilers.
Chapter One
This chapter was an excellent introduction to Alex Chen, her brother, Gabe, and the rest of the Haven Springs community. Steph and Ryan, our two romance options, were introduced with equal value - Steph was super cool and Ryan was super cute. Every character was well rounded and likeable, but the game was glitchy, hard to run and no one’s mouth moved with their speech - this improved in later chapters after the October update. The worst glitch was on Alex when she suddenly turned entirely black during an animation, but that went away quickly and may have been resolved in the October update. I had to adjust my settings several times to get the game to run smoothly! Windowed mode is your saviour here.
Chapter Two
This chapter could have been done better. It was OK. But it could have been impactful and emotional, and it just... wasn’t. I will talk about it more in the spoilers part of this review. There was a hilarious glitch where the bartender, Jed, T-posed when he wasn’t even supposed to be in the room. I laughed so hard.
Chapter Three
My favourite chapter by far! This chapter was fun and enjoyable - and then it was intense and emotional. I am so glad that they fleshed out Gabe’s girlfriend, Charlotte, more here as she had seemed bland before. I am concerned about how they did it, but I will talk about that in the spoiler part of this review.
Chapter Four
Fun and optional romance was abound in this chapter! The event was enjoyable and the romance so sweet that it made me smile. But it had a shocking conclusion. I literally clasped my hands over my mouth and gasped!
Chapter Five
Remember how in the first game Max had visions of alternate futures and alternate versions of herself and it got really crazy for awhile there? Well, it happened again here! But it made tons more sense and I actually enjoyed unravelling it all. True Colors came to a decisive end as the mysteries were brought to a satisfying, if tragic, conclusion. 
Wavelengths
This expansion pack was long! It was as long as a chapter of the game - so grab a warm drink and get comfy. In this, we followed Steph as she started her new job as a DJ and shop assistant in Haven Springs and slowly, bit by bit, moved on from the grief and trauma of what happened at Arcadia Bay. It impacted her more than we ever thought it did and she really struggled for awhile. You see the DJ booth and the music shop change over time as she settled in and got her life in order. Steph grew to become the Steph we knew in the game, and we got to see it happen. (Side note, I had a serious glitch occur when she entered the back room at one point, and had to restart from a previous check point three times. Hopefully, this will be ironed out with time.)
To read a more in depth review carry on, but beware the blatant spoilers below!
This part of the review contains spoilers and, honestly, this is where the critique comes in.
Chapter One
I like that this chapter started with Alex talking to her therapist because it introduces us to the main character, and it is then tied into the start of the last chapter. I appreciate that there was foreshadowing put in place by Ethan telling Alex that he wanted to go up and into the mountains that day, and by the signs of the upcoming explosions that were literally everywhere, but it ruined the experience for me. I predicted the entire thing before it happened and was frustrated that I couldn’t stop something so obvious from happening. It happened and I could have stopped it because I saw it miles out, but the game wouldn’t let me. So much for player’s choice. Also, I think that Riley’s hair could have done with being animated better as it looked not-quite-right throughout the game. And, I hate to say this, but Gabe’s death was more funny than it should have been. I mean, it was upsetting, yes, but I knew it was going to happen because of the trailers, so I did not miss the hilarity of the animation of this one random boulder just hitting Gabe in the stomach and throwing him off the mountain. I think that could have been animated better.
Chapter Two
This chapter started with a memorial for Gabe. I cried really hard during this part and had to restart the scene to watch it clearly. Then we helped Steph deal with her grief in a scene that was beautiful and well done. Steph’s eyebrows kept on disappearing, though, which made me giggle. Alex helped Charlotte support Ethan, and she helped Ryan with his grief and guilt. The scene with Ryan was brilliant too - and his following joy random but sweet. My critique here is this - where was Alex’s grief? It was her brother that died right in front of her and yet we did not see her grieve him, not really. And I get that it was mentioned in Chapter Five that she never cries, but still. Her voice was too level and her expression too clear and it really did not seem as though it had only been two weeks since her brother had died, I repeat, right in front of her. The entire chapter was about grief and mourning, but not about hers. She did start to see her empathy as something she can use to help other people and that’s great, but what about her emotions, where were they?
Alex’s watered down emotions were why this chapter was only an OK. Alex is the main character - so her emotions matter the most.
Chapter Three
I cannot put into words how much I loved this chapter. The LARP was so inspired and fun - I enjoyed every moment of it. And the way that Ethan’s Joy transformed the LARP into a real fantasy world was wonderful, followed on by how it was torn apart by his grief. After this came a scene with Charlotte where we finally got to see her grief - and it had manifested as anger, which is one of the five stages of grief. The option to take away her anger was an interesting choice to make, if an intrusive one. She had the right to her emotions. But! My concern is this - Charlotte is a black woman and the writers made her angry, so are they perpetuating the ‘angry black woman’ stereotype? Or are they allowing her the right to be angry in her grief despite the stereotype? I just think that this is such a sensitive topic that it would have been better if they had swapped her anger with another character’s sadness - like Steph’s or Ryan’s - so that this topic could have been entirely avoided. But maybe I am wrong here.
Chapter Four
I loved the Spring Festival! It was so much fun exploring it all and talking to all of the characters! My favourite part was the giving of a rose to your romantic interest - I loved how this made it clear to the game who you were interested in, as I was a bit concerned I would end up with Ryan when I had been gunning for Steph. (I just think dating your brother’s best friend is kind of weird.) The rooftop scene between Steph and Alex was adorable and I was so happy to finally see them kiss! Pike arresting Alex was not unexpected, because he had always seemed wishy-washy, but upsetting. The fact that she and her friends had been spied on was unnerving, but I should have seen that coming after what happened with Mac. Taking Pike’s fear away seemed contradictory to her thoughts on how taking Charlotte’s anger away was intrusive, but it was the only option other than signing the paper, which I was not going to do, so I did it. Jed’s betrayal was shocking. I did not expect that at all! And that Alex was shot and fell down a mine shaft from the impact was terrifying. What if she had died?
Chapter Five
This chapter started with Alex talking to her therapist again, and I love that it tied into the beginning of the game. The following mystery was fun to solve, and the magical memory explorations with Gabe were interesting to explore as we got to see more of their shared past. I actually really liked it! I was cheering Alex on as she made her way out of the mine, but I nearly cried when she found her mother’s locket down there. The final showdown between her and Jed was impactful and emotional like I had hoped chapter two to be, and I am glad that I managed to garner every character’s support. Jed admitted to his crimes and I... I forgave him. Not for him, but for Alex, because she deserved to move on from what happened. I chose to stay in Haven Springs with Steph, because it seemed like the game wanted me to do that (as I had learned from the first game that Life is Strange tends to have a ‘favourite’ ending that is more fleshed out) but I actually wanted them to leave. It didn’t seem healthy to me for her stay in the place that her father, brother and almost her had been murdered. Despite this, I found the ending to be... lacklustre. Gabe’s description of her future in Haven Springs was beautiful, but I would have liked to see that after I made the choice not before - because after I made the choice all I got to see was Alex walking to Haven Springs, which I had seen several times before, and then roll credits. If I had known that I wouldn’t have seen anything different I would have let Alex and Steph move on with their lives.
Overall, Life is Strange: True Colors is a great game! I would not say it is as good as Life is Strange was, but it is far better than Life is Strange 2, because it had a cohesive story with an overarching plot, likeable characters and a mystery to solve.
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its-chelisey-stuff · 3 years
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I watched “Imitation” and it was surprising (... okay, I loved it!)
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Full disclosure: If you haven’t the slightest interest in kpop, not even in the drama or juicy gossip that produces, this won’t be your thing. I know it’s not a drama for everyone. Stop reading. Just know that OTP (and most characters) had a happy ending but there was a bunch of drama to achieve it. Typical. And a death may or may not have been in the mix.  
Well well well... I'm pleasantly surprised, that's the perfect three word review for this drama. It would seem that when those little projects that come out of nowhere and you have no expectations about, turn out to be even a little big good, they made the strongest impression. And this drama is up there in my top 3 of favorite dramas of the year, it has my heart.
Yes, it was about kpop idols and 90% of the cast was made of idols (even one from the very first kpop gen hahaha), yet the acting was decent (and from some, truly great), yes sometimes it got a bit cheesy and silly and yes, there was a ton of drama concerning fans, reporters, dating scandals and bad and greedy CEOs of entertainment agencies BUT it was also sweet, really romantic, funny, lively, full of music (I'm OBSESSED with the last OST which was sung by the whole cast, it makes me FEEL things) and dancing, it had lots friendship and found family AND at times, it was heartbreakingly tragic.
I think this drama tried to tell the audience two important lessons, worthy of mention: the first, work hard for your dreams, don't give up on them but also, you never know what opportunities might come your way that could end up changing your direction and perhaps make you chase something that you never thought you would, so persevere, breathe and hang in there just a bit more; the second, one that we all know if you have a little bit of sense and even if you are mildly informed about the k entertainment which is that idols are just people(most of them teens when they debut some not even 18) who want to and deserve to have a pretty f-ing normal life, so f-ing let them! the consequences of putting these youngsters over a pedestal are catastrophic and there are real life, heartbreaking, examples of this.
Main characters
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Ryok: the Golden Boy of kpop, from the most popular boy group, also a an actor (a decent one? Idk they never said). Perfect in every single aspect, except when he is nice to girls who aren't his fans, then they will crucify him. SUPER clumsy whenever his crush is nearby and does something he finds cute, otherwise super cool and chill. Also great at pining for his crush. A romantic, which means he chose the worst career path. My favorite character.
Maha: A bright and optimistic girl with a strong might of perseverance in going after her dreams. Loves dancing. Very sweet and very tiny. Despite appearances, she's not a pushover or weak FL. And that's why I loved her.
Yujin: Second ML by the book. Became an idol because he was pursuing FL (who in turn was pursuing ML). The only reason why I never hated him is because he was a great friend, knew he wasn't doing anything healthy and decided to end his one sided love and opened his eyes. Two words: Character development *chef's kiss*
LaRiMa: A soloist. A Queen. At the start, it looked like she was the typical and mean second FL. But she wasn't, and I adored her for that. She had a heart of gold. She deserved the world, and she knew that so she made decisions accordingly (a Queen chases no one, least of all a man!) lol best character in the drama and my second favorite character (sorry Maha!)
Also starring: The members of SHAX (the leader, SF9′s Hwiyoung, the maknae from Ateez and the funny guy who spoke random english) the group of Golden Boy. Tea Party members (bffs with FL, Riah and HyunJi), Maha’s group. Sparkling members (the very angry and frustrated leader and two members of Ateez whose names I don’t know), second ML group. AND in the longest and most important cameo (ala Go Kyung Pyo in My roommate is a Gumiho) SF9′s Chani, a former member of SHAX, who disappeared into thin air one day.
The story
On paper it doesn't sound like anything groundbreaking (and tbh it really wasn't lol): a story about idols who willingly chose their career path, trained for years while underage, got treated like products by ugly men in suits and realized it kinda sucked, especially when you don't become a hit group and have to protect your personal life like it's a dirty secret that could damage your image and maybe end your career this is why I said it’s not a show for everyone. But this drama is what Dream High 2 (2012) wanted to be and never could in the aspect of actually making you feel something for these idols and the situations they were facing while loving the musical side of the show and making it all believable.
Even if it's not exactly about teens in high school sort of thing, it does give you the same hopeful and uplifting feeling of a coming of age story, especially because the characters are still youngsters trying to be happy and realize their dreams for the future.
You can just stop reading here if you want to go watch the drama with no spoilers. And if I haven’t convinced you despite not being appalled by kpop themed dramas, then I guess you should keep reading lol or trust in my taste and judgement when I say the story is worth it (but to be fair the first two eps are a bit slow).
The romance (super spoilery!)
At the core, this show was a love story. What started the plot is the fact that main couple reunite in the same work field as idols, and they actually met and befriended each other years ago; so being older and able to spent more time together brings them closer to finally accept and give into their feelings, but soon enough their relationship becomes a ticking bomb threatening their careers and then this big mystery of how and why SF9' Chani disappeared and abandoned the group becomes really important in the last third of the drama
Because once upon a time, Chani had a gf but she was still a trainee so once their love was exposed (the truth of who exposed him is devastating) and their respective companies threatened them, it all becomes too much too fast and with seemingly no other way out, the girl makes a terrible decision, that ends up changing the lives of most of the characters.
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I’m sure this is from a bts but their chemistry was really good and sweet. Also, height difference to die for!!
Yet, there is a happy ending for main couple but it's only achieved after certain people learn from their mistakes and support Ryok and Maha, which makes it clear that no matter how in love and willing you are to face adversities for and with your loved one, you still need a support system (and maybe the right people in a position of power) because sometimes two against the world isn't as romantic as it sounds, but sad and lonely.
And the main reason why I loved this is because of the way the show drew a parallel between the two most important couples in the story and tells the audience “had it been even a year before, under different circumstances and less luck, had they had no friends and no people to support them, main couple would’ve ended in the same tragic way” and I think that is a haunting realization. That also makes you appreciate things.
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*cries* they were adorable
The bad (spoilers!)
I do wish this drama would’ve elaborated on some bits that were really worth diving into, or that it would’ve shown how some things came intro fruition instead of just skipping it and showing rigth away the outcome of conversations that were never had or reunions never shown. It is clear to me that they wanted to make the drama longer and could have told a better story had it been a 16 ep show. 
Basically yes, the main story, main romance and side couples' arcs got resolved but ugh a list of plot holes:
Why was LaRiMa so obsessed with Ryok for half the drama? The minute the girl knew he was dating someone he truly liked, she gave up right away, so I gotta believe the only reason she didn’t quit on him before, is because he did gave her a reason to hold onto him. Perphaps they dated before? Or maybe they like each other at one point? I can only do fanfiction in my head to explain this.
Why was the angry leader of Sparkling such a bitter bitch? How did he end up in another company?
I wanted to see SF9′s Chani reunion with his ex-members from SHAX.  It NEEDED to happen. At least they showed Chani with Ryok (which was really emotional) but arrgh.
Also, Chani deserved a kneeling apology from SHAX leader, I mean, come on!!
If everyone knew about Maha and Ryeok at some point, they needed to use that. You can’t just have a bomb like that in your drama and not use it. Is a principle of storytelling. You can’t just have the thing that your main characters fear the most, in your hands, and do nothing about it. But I guess it was not done because of lack of time.
Also, they never showed how they announced their relationship. Instagram post? Company statement? An exclusive to Dispatch? And how did the fans took it?? Answers, drama! Damn it!!
Final thoughts
Despite its many flaws, I loved it. It had heart. It seemed low budget and even more so due to the fact that it was done in the middle of the pandemic and a big part of kpop are the fans and concerts, you know what makes it all the more big and shinier. But the drama people and the actors put effort into it, and you could tell (and the fact that there were also original songs and choreographies made for this drama amazes me, and that they chose to promote the drama by having some of these fake groups perform on actual music shows). So there you go, I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Before I finish, let me just say that the actor who played Ryok is a REVELATION in my eyes.This boy needs to stay in dramaland and get more main roles (and after some research I’m happy to say that he is thriving!!). Also, he has great timing for comedy. The actress who played Maha elevated the quality of every scene she was in. (Not for nothing she was God in DAYS). Jiyeon (LaRiMa) was excellent. It really showed at times that she’s not only an experienced idol but also an experienced actress. The contrast with most of the cast was noticeable, sadly. The drama wouldn’t have been the same without these three.
Also, watch AND listen to the last OST sung by the whole cast here. Beautiful song that just makes you cry if you’ve seen the drama.
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izzy-b-hands · 3 years
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Good Company
Inspired by a conversation today on the DL Server about how cute the pictures are of Roger when he’s in the middle of reading (and is interrupted for the taking of said picture.) Also written for my DL Server Bingo Card prompt: Good Company (also the title of this fic Because I Can lol.) 
Synopsis: Poly!Queen. Roger just wants to read. Like that’s it, for real. He just wants to read his book, in peace, until he’s done with it. That should be really easy, in theory. However, after adding in three clingy boyfriends, things get more...interesting.
My love to all who read/like/reblog!
“Can I help you with something?” 
“No,” John smiled. “How are you?” 
Roger fought back a sigh. “Good. Enjoying my book. Or I was, at least.” 
“That’s good; I’m happy for you,” John said, still laying directly over Roger’s lap, on top of his book and hands. 
Roger nodded. “Thank you.” 
John nodded back, and for a moment, they were trapped like that, in mutual politeness. 
“Are you going to get up, so I can keep reading?” 
“Can I stay by you?” John looked up at him with the strongest puppy dog eyes, his long hair draped over the pages. 
“If you get off of my book, yes, you may,” Roger said, sighing as he leaned back onto the bed, book back up to his face as John snuggled close to his right side. “Something going on, for all of this to be happening?” 
“I can’t just want to be near you?” John asked softly, and immediately Roger kicked himself for being harsh. 
“Of course you can,” he muttered, and shifted an arm around John’s shoulders, the book held in his free hand. 
It was peaceful for a good hour, and John was happily half-asleep against him when Brian stumbled in, and dropped onto the bed over his legs.
“I’m in here,” Roger whined. 
“I know,” Brian mumbled, his mind obviously elsewhere. 
“You alright?” John asked. 
Brian shrugged. “Are any of us, really?” 
Roger shared a look with John. This was a bright, flashing sign of Brian being far too deep into his own mind, his own worries. It didn’t happen all the time, but when it did, it could overwhelm him easily.
“Well, I’m enjoying my book,” Roger replied. “And John’s company. So I’m alright. How about you, Deaky?” 
John nodded. “I’m comfortable, probably going to nap. Can’t really ask for more, can I?” 
Brian sighed deeply in response. 
“In the interest of making you feel better,” Roger offered. “And also because you are making my legs go numb-” 
“I’m not that heavy,” Brian’s smile was small, but it was there, at least.
“Yeah, and my legs aren’t that strong,” Roger joked. “I’ve got a free side, if you want to join us.” 
He had already been warm with John by him, but he was now extra warm with the addition of Brian. 
It was also harder to read. Brian hadn’t just moved up to rest by him, but had wrapped an arm around Roger’s waist, pressing his face into Roger’s side and nuzzling him like some sort of baby animal. He didn’t begrudge Brian’s trying to hide from the world in his side (who didn’t want to hide every now and again?) 
But it was making it a chore to continue his book, for sure. 
However, this had been his only goal for the Sunday: to finish his book. He wasn’t going to give up now. 
“What’re you reading?” Brian asked.
“You’re right by the front cover, you can read,” Roger said as he tried to continue to read. 
“Maybe he’s forgotten how,” John giggled. 
“Maybe I have,” Brian laughed. “What then, Rog?” 
“Then I guess you don’t find out what I’m reading,” Roger replied. “Both of you hush.” 
“We’re only talking to you,” John said. “We like hearing you talk.” 
Brian nodded and readjusted to sit up more, so his head and cloud of hair was rested on Roger’s left shoulder. “You could read aloud.” 
“I’m nearly done with the book!” 
“We can guess the bits we’ve missed,” John said. 
“Yeah, context clues should be enough,” Brian added. 
“You two are doing this on purpose,” Roger said, refusing to take his eyes off the current page. He wasn’t getting anything out of it, unable to glean any meaning while two of his sweet but frustrating boyfriends were nearly literally in his face wanting his attention. “Don’t make me kick you out of the bed.” 
“You would never,” John teased. 
Before Roger could reply, Freddie stomped in, kicked off his shoes, and climbed onto the bed. He settled squarely in Roger’s lap, his head bumping up Roger’s left hand and nearly knocking the book from it. He could barely manage it, but attempted to wrap his arms around Roger’s waist. 
“Hi,” Roger said slowly. 
“You know what I hate?” Freddie muttered bitterly. 
“No, but I bet you’re about to tell us,” Roger replied. 
Freddie peeked around the sides of Roger’s book as if just noticing Brian and John for the first time. “Right. So, all I wanted to do was shop for a bit. Window shop, if I couldn’t find anything I needed, then groceries...” 
A few minutes later, Freddie’s tale of being chased round the shops by two kind but slightly overzealous new Queen fans (who managed to steal the scarf he’d been wearing) was complete, and Roger could understand why he was upset now. 
“Vintage, wasn’t it?” 
Freddie nodded against him, and sighed miserably. “Don’t get me wrong. It made them happy, and that’s lovely to see, but I would have much rather autographed something for them!” 
“I’m sorry, Fred,” Brian said gently. “I’m sure they didn’t mean any harm, but that’s no excuse for what they did.” 
John nodded. “Lovely to have fans. Less lovely when they literally want a piece of you, apparently.” 
Freddie grumbled, and pressed his face against Roger’s thigh. “I didn’t even manage to get the groceries I had planned to pick up, I was so upset. Came straight home instead.” 
“We hadn’t made up a list for that yet, what exactly were you planning on getting?” Brian giggled. 
“I know what we keep in the pantry,” Freddie replied. “I can remember things, unlike some people in this flat.” 
“You lose your keys a few times, and suddenly you’re evil,” Brian said. “We’ve found them each time; it isn’t like they were lost forever!” 
“Stop,” Roger interrupted. “No fighting while you lot are cuddling me. If you want to fight, you’ve got to leave. I’m finishing this fucking book if it is the last thing I ever do.” 
“What are you reading?” Freddie asked.
“Oh my fucking god,” Roger muttered, but he had moved his right arm from around John’s shoulder so he could let that hand play with Freddie’s hair instead. 
“We already asked; he won’t say,” John said. “And we’d look, but we’ve both forgotten how to read and Rog here has no sympathy for it.” 
“None,” Brian said, voice heavy with faux-sadness. 
“Tragic,” Freddie laughed. “Shall I look, since I’m down here?” 
“I love you all,” Roger said slowly. He had yet to turn another page, he had damn near forgotten all what he had read prior to John joining him, and at this rate, the book would not be finished for another three days. “So I say this with love: shut the fuck up, or please go away. I want to read my book. I want to cuddle with all of you. But I need the cuddling to be quiet, if I’m also to read. Okay?” 
A beat of silence, then a soft chorus of ‘okay’ from the lads. 
“Thank you,” he said it gently; he didn’t want them hurt, he truly just wanted to be able to focus on the book. 
And it seemed to work. John settled again at his right, and after a bit was snoring lightly. 
Brian again nuzzled into his side. Roger swore he could hear the wheels still turning in Brian’s head, but he seemed actively less sad and more cozy if nothing else. 
Freddie joined John in napping, his breath warm even through the material of Roger’s jeans, his head comfortably using Roger’s thigh as a pillow. 
For another fifteen minutes, progress was made. The book was a good one, and he pondered rereading it aloud if John and Brian had actually been serious about wanting to be read to. 
It was at minute twenty it all went sour.
“You’ve got to be fucking kidding me,” he muttered mostly to himself. “Utter bullshit!” 
The rest of his book had been horribly misprinted. Words printed over others, at awkward angles, some bleeding together as to be unreadable. Altogether, it was impossible to decipher without hurting his eyes. 
“Don’t like the way the story is going?” Brian asked sweetly. 
“Um...yeah. Might not bother with the rest of it,” Roger sighed. 
Brian’s hand reached up to take the book from him, and tossed it gently to the floor. “You make up the rest then, and tell us. Tell us the way it should be going.” 
“Seriously?” 
Freddie, groggy as all hell, looked up with half-open eyes and nodded. “You did a good job with the last one. You could do it again.” 
The ‘last one’ had been a small sci-fi paperback that in Roger’s mind wasn’t even worth the cheap paper it was printed on, and he had enjoyed essentially rewriting most of the story, saying it aloud to the lads each night before bed, making little notes to himself on a pad of paper so he wouldn’t forget certain bits of it. 
John yawned, nodded, and tried to snuggle even closer to him. 
“Alright. So, we’re on Mercury, right?” 
“No, I’m on you,” Freddie giggled. 
“Funny,” Roger smirked. “Anyway. We’re on Mercury, and instead of killing off the only decent character that author managed to write, we’re going to keep him alive-” 
“I like it already,” John said. “Good thing, being alive and not dead.” 
“I think this character would agree,” Roger said.
“Most people would, probably,” Brian added.
“Are you lot going to commentate on everything I make up to keep the story going?” Roger laughed. 
“At least until we fall asleep again,” Freddie mumbled, his face already back down on Roger’s thigh, a hand near his nose, the thumb rubbing at the denim of Roger’s jeans. 
“Delightful,” Roger sighed, happily this time. “You can let me know if you want something changed as I go then. Now: we’re on Mercury, and we’re saying fuck the protagonist, because he’s more boring than peeling wallpaper. But this side character we’ve brought back to life, he’s worth something. Before we go forward, let me jump back some and tell you why...” 
---
“Aww,” Freddie smiled as he carefully got off the bed, to stand by John and Brian. “How long do you think he’s been asleep?” 
“No idea,” Brian admitted. “I was sleeping hard; I feel terrible I missed most of his story.” 
John nodded as he reached for the blanket on the end of the bed, and tossed it over Roger’s legs. “I don’t think I heard anything past the first three minutes. But I liked where he was going with it!” 
“Maybe when he wakes up he can tell us more,” Freddie said. “If he remembers any of it.” 
As they crept out of the room, Brian leaned down to pick up the book, only to wince at the state of the last few chapters. “Here’s why he was so upset. Had nothing to do with the story at all!” 
“Remember the title; we’ll go pick up a new copy while he’s out,” Freddie whispered. “And get dinner, since I didn’t get groceries.” 
“We could go get the groceries instead,” Brian noted. 
“Could, but what’s easier to carry round a bookshop? Bags of groceries or at most two bags of takeaway?” Freddie asked. 
They shut the bedroom door, and Roger cracked his eyes open. He’d been asleep, but only lightly. He hadn’t wanted to sleep too deeply, to risk moving and knocking Brian and John, or jostling Freddie. 
Now he could crawl under the blanket though, and enjoy a nap. He’d earned it, he figured. For being a sweet boyfriend, and all that. 
And when they got back, after dinner, he was going to secret himself away in a corner, and he was finishing that fucking book. 
9 notes · View notes
ceciliasheplin · 4 years
Text
Master post for all my fics so far
I’ve put here most of the tags but not all, so please read them. My recurring themes are: Reylo is madly in love, Happy ending, Redemption/Healing of some sort. Let me know what you guys think!
Morpho Menelaus
Rated M, 1189 words, One-shot
📎https://archiveofourown.org/works/24635509
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🏷 Modern AU, Grief/Mourning, Pinned Insects, Swearing, Butterflies, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Fluff and Angst
Rey works at an insectarium and notices a recurring visitor at the butterfly exhibit.
This fic is the ao3 version of a twitter fic that I wrote for this prompt by @reylo_prompts:
"Ben and Rey work at a zoo Rey always finds Ben in the butterfly exhibit, he likes to go there when he’s sad."
Ever since the Roll-out came out, I’ve been in love with the butterflies, like many fellow Reylos, and couldn’t wait for them to show up in the fics. My headcanon is that the butterflies are a symbol of the love between father and son, so tragically broken apart (by cruel writers). I love this little fic. It makes me happy. It gives me closure and hope.
🦋🦋🦋
***
A Quick Death
Rated M, 2293 words, One-shot
📎https://archiveofourown.org/works/24563752
🏷 Canon Divergence, Post TLJ, Wounds, animal blood, Mention of death penalty, Forgiveness, Redemption
This is my contribution to a Prompt Gangbang event: “Rey finds Ben tied to a tree.”
I can’t write fix-it fics because TROS made canon so bad, there is no fixing it other than ignoring that piece of shit of a movie completely, in my opinion. So I divorced myself from that and live in denial ever since, never missing an opportunity of writing about what it should have been.
🌳🌳🌳
***
What Am I Here For?
Rated E, 25577 words, 16 chapters
📎https://archiveofourown.org/works/23903074/chapters/57471235
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🏷 Modern AU, Breylo, Polyamory, Heavy Angst, Grief/Mourning, No Incest, Skywalker Family Drama, Loss of appetite, Consensual Infidelity, Internalized Prejudices, Domestic Fluff, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Threesome - F/M/M, Everyone Is Alive, No Pregnancy, No Kids
This is the Breylo version of this old prompt by @reylo_prompts: "When Ben is declared missing, and then presumed dead, his fiance, Rey, is heartbroken. He returns years later, only to find she didn't wait for him as she'd promised she would."
This is my favourite fic that I wrote. It features smut but it’s not a smut fic, I wanted to write something different this time. Also, I had a lot of grief to let out and needed to find a way for these characters to heal and find a happy ending, even after all they’ve been through. I poured my heart out writing this one. I’m still in love with my poly babies Rey, Ben and Kylo and always will be.
❤️💛💙
***
Smitten
Rated M, 16065 words, 8 Chapters
📎https://archiveofourown.org/works/23306047/chapters/55821535
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🏷 Modern Setting, Angel Rey, Human Ben, Mild Smut, Loss of Virginity, Protected Sex, Family Drama, Fluff
Rey is an angel who falls to protect human Ben from demon Snoke. They fall in love while figuring out the truth about Ben's family.
Inspired by Diablo (the video game) mythos, but this fic is super fluffy. Listen, I just wanted a feral angel girl to protect SoftBoi Ben, okay? And fall in love and bone him along the way...
😇😇😇
***
Macrolepidoptera
Rated E, 3215 words, One-shot
📎https://archiveofourown.org/works/23588158
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🏷 Modern, Mothlo, Porn with Feelings, Hurt/Comfort, Monsterfucking, Body Worship, Biting, Blood Play, Fluff and Angst, Cuddling & Snuggling, Dark fic
Rey runs after her Mothman to show him how much she loves him
MOTHLOOOO!!! I fell in love with Mothlo and had the urge to let the whole fandom know, haha. Really, this is about Kylo believing he’s worthy of love and Rey being true to herself. Another favourite, because I will always love those sweet monsters who are better than so many ‘nice guys’ we meet out there.
🖤🦋🖤 
***
Ash & Blood
Rated E, 6596 words, One-shot
📎https://archiveofourown.org/works/22568317
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🏷 Medieval, Dark fic, Murderous Lovers, Minor Character Death, Betrayal between friends, Violence, Kylo Ren is Not Nice, Rey is not nice, but they love each other
Bloodthirsty warrior Kylo Ren is betrayed by his men and must flee. He is helped by a mysterious woman and her friends. He joins forces with them to get his revenge.
My first dark fic. It was a gift for my wonderful friend. It was a lot of fun to write people being bad.
🗡🖤🔥
***
Heal
Rated T, 4379 words, One-shot
📎https://archiveofourown.org/works/22537060
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🏷 Canon Divergence, Angst, Fluff, Kyber Crystals, Force Bond, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Nightmares, Sharing a Bed, Visions
A few weeks after the Battle of Crait, the Force connects Rey and Ben again on several occasions as she is trying to heal the legacy saber's Kyber crystal.
Another gift for a Valentine’s Day exchange. When my giftee asked for soft romance and Rey touching Ben’s hair I rubbed my hands together and gave an evil laugh because it’s what I do best, haha. This is my first T rated fic and it’s very soft and cute.
💎💎💎
***
High Seas
Rated E, 19923, 10 chapters
📎https://archiveofourown.org/works/21640174/chapters/51602203
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🏷 Pirate AU, Porn With Plot, Mention of Reyux, Infidelity Kink, Praise Kink, Light Dom/sub, Dom Kylo Ren, Sub Rey, Betrayal, Angst and Fluff and Smut, Name-Calling, Dirty Talk, Rough Sex, Period-Typical Sexism, Slut Shaming, Revenge Sex, Pirate Rey, Lovers to enemies to lovers, Mention of pregnancy at the very end of the epilogue
Rey is stuck in a loveless and sexless marriage. So she turns to the alluring Commander Kylo Ren to quench her thirst.
This is my dirtiest fic and I love it to death. I’m not the best smut writer in the world, but this porn was liberating to write. Also, I wanted to write Ben as not a Softboi this time, and Rey as someone a little more flawed than what I usually do. Horny Reylo at their best.
🏴‍☠️ 🌊
***
The Tide
Rated E, 14949 words, 6 chapters
📎https://archiveofourown.org/works/20658665/chapters/49060343
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🏷 Canon Divergence, Slow Burn, Hurt/Comfort, Domestic Fluff, Angst, Eventual Smut, Mention of abuse, Kylo Ren Needs a Hug, Gardening, Spoiler for Kylo Ren comic, No Pregnancy, No Kids
This fic was based on a prompt from @reylo_prompts: “The Resistance catches Supreme Leader and decides on his execution. Rey promises that if they do that, the Jedi won't support their cause any longer. Nevertheless, they proceed. She leaves. Several years later, Palpatine's return prompts the Resistance to seek Rey out. They are shocked to find her peacefully living with very much alive Kylo in a cute cottage on an outer rim planet.”
In sharp contrast to the latter, this is mostly plot driven. I wanted to write about them falling in love gradually, facing who they really are and what happened in canon (I wrote this before TROS came out so some of my lines sound kinda funny now). Also, Leia and Ben have a chance to make things right here, something that will forever be missing in my heart.
🏡🌻🌏
***
The Dark Prince
Rated E, 38471 words, 17 chapters
📎https://archiveofourown.org/works/20739284/chapters/49274468
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🏷 Fantasy AU, Slow Burn, Curses, Demons, Angst, Fluff, Smut, Attempt Self-Sacrifice, Battles
In a fantasy land, Rey, a Jedi Monk, travels across the land in the winter to end the war the First Order has been waging. There, she finds their great power being challenged by a small but brave group of dissidents, the Resistance, and also by something else. A demon who haunts the woods nearby and attacks those who dare to cross the forest.
This was my RFFA fic. I tried to create a world where the heroes would be able to fight and win by not fighting what they hate but saving what they love.
***
Something Beautiful
Rated E, 6186 words, One-shot
📎https://archiveofourown.org/works/20263963
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🏷 Medieval AU, Arranged Marriage, Fluff, Angst, Smut, Loss of Virginity, Virgin Rey, Virgin Ben Solo, Gentle Sex
Rey begrudgingly agrees to marry her greatest enemy and fears her wedding night.
This fic was inspired by a prompt from @reylo_prompts: “Lord Ren forces orphan Rey to marry him. On their wedding night he refuses to take her because he wants her to be willing. Rey is both enraged and frustrated. She may hate him but she isn’t exactly opposed to being ravished by her husband.”
This is my most successful fic. I loved the idea of a character being so sure of something and then be proven wrong. It’s basically two dumb virgins figuring it all out, connecting deeply in the process. And I could never have a fic where Rey is a passive onlooker in her own life. She knows what she wants and she’s going to get it.
🏰🌕💞
***
The Balance
Rated E, 70382 words, 21 chapters
📎https://archiveofourown.org/works/17664236/chapters/41660696
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🏷 Canonverse, Slow Burn, Eventual Smut, The Force Ships It, Softboi Ben, Rey is confident, Lightsabers, Force Bond, Kylo Ren Redemption
It has been a few months since the battle of Crait. Both sides are rushing to rebuild. Rey is getting stronger as a Jedi. Ben, however, is feeling unsure. They cannot forget about each other as dreams haunt them both. A series of events brings them together again.
Okay, this is my first fic... It’s bad... Like, really bad... I’m not disowning it but this is cringeworthy, even if I still love it and stand by some of my ideas. We all gotta start somewhere, right? Also, it’s better than TROS... 😘
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Big thanks to @leofgyth​, @reylotrash711​, @thehobbem​ and starcrossreylo for the betas and moodboards. I love you guys!
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thelittlehansy · 4 years
Text
My Ranking of disney Princes ( Part 1)
*this post is not about disney princess love interest but count actual prince by birth and marriage so no hercule  tarzan , quasimodo , phoebus  but also human so no simba and no prince taka ( sorry i mean scar XD) i just include Mulan and pocahontas love interest  who are not prince because  they are famous “disney princess”.
let’s begin  : 
12-JOHN SMITH 
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one of the biggest disney prince of my childhood , i liked him a lot when i was little but now that i m older there is something about that guy that i dont like that much. even dislike ? like he is confident but in a wrong way ? so , i m gonna say something atrocious in term of disney fandom but i m team john rolfe haha i prefered him he is nice with pocahontas , yes a little snob , but he is nice so justice for john rolfe and everyone should just stop hating that poor dude 😂
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11- PRINCE FLORIAN
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unfortunately i can put prince florian higher because of his screen time ! we saw barely anything about him but i do think he has some potential !
- him being a childhood friend of snow white is really something that i find really possible and could developed their romance. after all when they meet the movie never tell us “ this two are strangers” and snow white reaction could have other reasons.
- i also think this is possible to give him some depth with the “ i want to be a hero” like the only thing he did is to kiss snow white and woke her up i can see him wanted to be something more and it is funny because in once upon a time  season 5 ( ?) david , snow white prince talk to robin hood about wanted to be something more.
so yeah i put him here because of his screen time but he has some potential !
10- ALADDIN and  -9  KRISTOFF 
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this two are two nice sweet guy who loved very much their princess. aladdin is a prince by heart , a prince by marriage and also a prince by birth ? i mean he is the son of the king of thieve we could totally make a kingdom like thief-land 😂 lol kristoff is  an amazing character  also he show us how selfless he is when he sacrifice his happiness for anna. Aladdin is also a selfless guy when he give the beard to the kids. they were also both soooo cute when they were little just look at them : 
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but....there are at this place because even if i like them there is something in their behavior to their princess that i dislike : for aladdin this is obvious , he lied ! he is also one of the main princes of my childhood and i watch his tv series a lot and i remember him lied to jasmine each episode and it was so frustrating ! as for kristoff while this is common sense to not marry a man you just met he give me the impression to have a “ i know better than you” behavior toward anna ? he appeared to me also a bit judgmental or maybe this is his portrayal in once upon a time that make me think that 🤔
8-Shang 
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shang abdo... sorry i mean captain Shang made the 8th position for me ! i like how awkward and shy he is in term of romantic relationship yeah you fight good mulan ! he is maybe a bit too serious and traditional for my taste ? so yeah shang is captain of the army not celebrating a birthday 😅but even in his everyday life i got the feeling he is very serious but i still really like him ! i m disappoint he is not gonna be in the live action...our bi icon would definitely miss in the movie 😪
oh and i will makes a man out of you is one the beest disney song eveeeer 💖
8- Prince Adam 
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the biggest prince of my childhood but also  one of the most complex disney prince who has to dealt with a lot of issues , his complexity is definitely what i love the most about him. there is something tragic about him  , the end were he is just depressed and let gaston finished it always make so sad ☹ 
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one of the main reason i also find him tragic is because of that stupid enchantress XD ! seriously which 11 years old should be punish to not let a creepy old lady in his house ?  i bet that enchantress was one maleficent best friend !🤣 So , i really like Prince adam and even though adam is fan-name i think it really suit him ! it also mean “ man” so its perfect for him ! 
but i kind of have the same feeling with him that i have with rapunzel ! i both loved them  rapunzel is one of my favorite princess but at the end of the movie they lost for me what makes them unique rapunzel her long blond hair , and adam his beast form so while they do deserve their happy ending with freedom they feel maybe a little less unique at the end of their movie and i bit more generic  for me.   
33 notes · View notes
kpopnkoffee · 4 years
Text
Drama Review: My ID is Gangnam Beauty
Show: My ID is Gangnam Beauty
Starring: Im Soo Hyang, Cha Eun Woo, Kwak Dong Yeon, Jo Woo Ri
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Episodes: 16
Synopsis: Kang Mi Rae, an insecure middle-schooler, decides to get plastic surgery after being constantly bullied for her looks. When she joins university, she struggles to adjust to her new-found beauty and this is only made more difficult with Do Kyung Seok, her old middle school classmate. Mi Rae’s insecurities dominate the way she looks at others and the way she thinks of herself and this drama is her beautiful journey to finding inner beauty.
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Click “Read More” to see my review! ***Potential Spoilers!***
Review: This drama was so heart warming and touching!! I absolutely fell in love with the characters and the journey Kang Mi Rae goes on. This drama is honestly a huge life lesson and I’m so happy I finished it. Though it wasn’t a perfect drama, it made me really happy and I think I would watch it again. Let’s start with the negatives...
Like almost all kdramas, I think this drama also has issues with its pacing, mostly with the reveals/dramatic aspects or plot points. Hyun Soo Ah’s (the second female lead) background was revealed in the last 2 episodes and I thought it put a lot of pressure on the audience to connect the dots. It also made it difficult for me to sympathetic for her when I saw her tragic background only an hour before the show was going to end.
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The dramatic climax could also have been paced better and I think putting it in the last hour of the drama was a mistake. A slow reveal of Soo Ah’s background and a build up to Kang Mi Rae’s climactic monologue could have lead to a better ending. I also think this drama’s ending left way too many strings untied. I don’t mean that the open endings were bad, but some endings weren’t even shown. For example, what happened to the relationship between the Do siblings? And the relationship between Kyung Seok and his mom? And the relationship between Woo Yeong (second male lead) and  Mi Rae’s friend? There were just so many aspects that weren’t shown in the end, which made it difficult to digest that the drama had actually ended. Also what on Earth was the point of showing Hyun Jun’s interest in rapping??? That plot point ended in 1 episode and was such a pointless filler.
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The biggest negative for me is the lack of screen time of the relationship between Kyung Seok and his mother. We get to see it in the beginning/middle of the drama and then she sort of takes the sidelines and that relationship never fully develops. The relationship between them could have been such a beautiful side-plot and I think the producers really missed out on a good opportunity. You don’t even see the mother and son together in the last episode! It’s so frustrating and I really wish I could have seen more of their relationship blossom.
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I think the styling/casting of the female lead was also kind of odd. Don’t get me wrong, I love Im Soo Hyang and I think she’s a fantastic actress. She’s so funny and down-to-earth, but also confident and her skills shone through in this drama. But she looked too old to be a college student. I understand that maybe that was the vibe they were going for since she is supposed to “look” like she got plastic surgery, but I think her hairstyle and the way they did her makeup just made her look artificially old. If they were going for the “mature” look, I think they nailed it with some of the side characters, but Mi Rae looked unnaturally old. I think it’s the hairstyle tbh, cuz she looks so young in other dramas/shows!
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Now on to the positives!!
THE ROMANCE!!!! Ahhhhh the romance gave me sooo many feels. I literally felt my heart drop everytime I saw the 2 main leads interact. I definitely did not have Second Lead Syndrome with this drama because the main leads had so much chemistry and such beautiful interactions. Do Kyung Seok only sees people’s inner beauty and Kang Mi Rae can’t help herself from judging/feeling judged for outer beauty. The growth and love between these characters made the scenes so cute and sweet to watch. I honestly fell in love with both of them and was definitely sad I didn’t have my own Do Kyung Seok. The OST (Something in your eyes) made me swoon every single time and I can feel myself blush whenever I hear it.
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I don’t think my heart can take any more romance...
The Actors. I tried not to be biased with my review of the actors and I feel like I’m pretty unbiased tbh. I know Eun Woo is a part of ASTRO, but I don’t really stan/listen to their music/follow them so I feel like I can be unbiased. I honestly loved all the actors. I think Soo Hyang was so beautiful and portrayed her role so well. I got annoyed with her character sometimes because of how insecure she was, but this was honestly the most realistic portrayal of insecurities and growth. Eun Woo was fantastic! His cold facade was done so well that I still felt affectionate for him when he was cold. Maybe because he was never really cold to Mi Rae? The transition from a cold, arrogant-type boy to a sweet, loving boy was honestly pretty smooth. I couldn’t even tell that Kyung Seok was acting differently because Eun Woo transitioned in that role so well. It didn’t help that all the actors were gorgeous and so entertaining! Cha Eun Woo’s smile makes my heart stop. I guess if I had to pick one actor that didn’t really make me feel anything it would be Kwak Dong Yeon (Woo Young). Maybe it wasn’t the actor’s fault and it was the producers, writers, or directors, but I just didn’t feel any interest or chemistry in his romance with Soo Hyang. I could snicker at his comedy scenes but I never felt touched with his emotional ones, even the sad ones.
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The Morals. This was probably my favorite part of the drama. I felt so touched by the morals in this drama...Suicide prevention, depression, therapy, love, inner beauty, friendship. I mean this was literally the most heart touching drama I’ve watched, which is why the negatives don’t matter as much to me. Romance aside, I think Kang Mi Rae had beautiful character development and I’m so proud of her and happy that she became a confident and happy person. Her dramatic monologue at the climax just made me feel so motivated and inspired to stop thinking of my looks all the time and stop unnecessarily judging others’ looks.
Overall thoughts: This drama was honestly one of the best. It has its flaws, but I feel like they pale in comparison to the romance, the entertainment, and the learning value of the drama. This is how a good drama should be written and produced. The romance, the chemistry, the acting, the comedy, the lessons were so valuable and so touching. Honestly, this drama reminds me of an early 2000s drama without the cringe-fest. I would 100% watch it again (mainly for the romance scenes...)
Rating: 4.5/5
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oscopelabs · 7 years
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“From One White Man to Another”: Sex, Bigotry and Desperation in Elia Kazan’s ‘Baby Doll’ by Judy Berman
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It can be disappointing to read what great filmmakers have to say about their movies. But rarely has a director seemed to misunderstand his own work as completely as Elia Kazan, in a lengthy interview about his sole comedy, Baby Doll (1956), that appears in Jeff Young’s book Kazan: The Master Director Discusses His Films. “It has no meaning,” he claimed. “By the time I got to Baby Doll, I was determined to make a picture with no sympathy and no heroes.”
Kazan appears to be describing a very different film from the one he made. Set in a small Mississippi Delta town just months before Brown v. Board of Education made segregated public schools illegal, and scripted by Tennessee Williams (with lots of uncredited assistance from Kazan), Baby Doll is essentially a Southern Gothic three-hander. Carroll Baker, who also appeared in the George Stevens classic Giant in 1956, plays the title character, a beautiful 19-year-old who’s married to the hapless, middle-aged cotton gin owner Archie Lee Meighan (Karl Malden). Their union is the result of a tragedy and a lie: Baby Doll’s ailing father wanted to ensure her financial security before he died, and Archie Lee led the terminally ill man to believe he could give her a life of luxury. Now, the unhappy couple dwells in a squalid, crumbling mansion. Because Archie Lee promised Baby Doll’s father that he wouldn’t touch her before her 20th birthday, the marriage remains unconsummated—and everyone in town seems to know it.
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Two days before that date, the furniture the Meighans have purchased on an installment plan gets hauled away for nonpayment and Baby Doll threatens to move out. A desperate Archie Lee burns down a new cotton gin that has stolen all of his business so that his rickety contraption will once again be the only game in town. Their bizarre love triangle is completed when his rival, Silva Vacarro (Eli Wallach, in his first major film role), a Sicilian from Corpus Christi, arrives at the Meighans’ to drop off the cotton he can no longer process. Vacarro has no doubt that Archie Lee set the fire, and when a good ol’ boy cop refuses to investigate an outsider’s “reckless” charges, he decides to handle the matter himself. “I come from a very old country where it’s tradition for every man to make his own justice,” says Vacarro. He’s also shrewd enough to realize that if he wants a confession, he’s best off going through Baby Doll.
Williams’ script, based on his plays 27 Wagons Full of Cotton and The Unsatisfactory Supper, is a master class in character creation. Baker, Wallach and Malden (who’d already won a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for another Kazan collaboration, A Streetcar Named Desire), all Actors Studio alums, fully inhabit their rich roles. Sharp-tongued, imperious and naive, Baby Doll comes off as even younger than her 19 years. Archie Lee, a whiny drunk whose insecurity about his masculinity might stem from impotence, lies and commits arson out of a belief that, despite his lack of any discernible charm or skills, he deserves a thriving business and a gorgeous wife half his age. Although he’s slick and menacing on the surface, Vacarro’s true motives are harder to read.
Each represents a stereotype: the bratty ingénue, the entitled white man, the sneaky and enterprising immigrant. But, contrary to Kazan’s insistence that this black comedy has no overarching meaning or sympathy for its leads, Williams never lets us forget how deeply their roles in society have shaped these characters’ personalities and expectations about each other. For Baby Doll, Vacarro and even, to some extent, Archie Lee, identity is a trap.
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Kazan didn’t see Baby Doll’s central trio as particularly complicated people. He claimed to identify most closely with the film’s nastiest character, Archie Lee, who he described to Young as a classic “middle-aged cuckold”: “pathetic, funny, amusing tragic.” Meanwhile, Vacarro is “as ridiculous as a rooster because you know tomorrow morning somebody’s going to go out there with an axe and cut his head off.” His dismissal of Baby Doll is particularly dispiriting. “I know a lot of girls who are like Baby Doll,” he told Young. “You say to yourself, ‘She’s such a bore.’ Fifteen minutes later you’re going to bed with her. ‘God, she’s a good kid. Oh boy, she’s a cute little animal.’ And you like her. You think, ‘What’s the difference what her ideas are?’”
The director’s appraisal of Archie Lee is solid, if incomplete, although the character doesn’t necessarily begin the film a cuckold. His biggest obstacle is that, as a white landowner, his expectations for his own life exceed his intelligence and abilities. Vacarro has the opposite problem: He’s smart and successful, but lives in a town that doesn’t take kindly to newcomers (or consider Sicilians white), where local police have no interest in protecting his property. What Kazan sees as Vacarro’s foolishness is actually desperation. Sure, he has a lot to lose by challenging Archie Lee. But his other option is to quietly absorb the destruction of his livelihood.  
Like Vacarro, Baby Doll is manipulative out of necessity, yet ultimately sympathetic. And she’s never boring. We first glimpse her, a minute or so into the film, asleep in an open crib. She’s clad in a style of nightgown now called a “baby doll dress” in the character’s honor, sucking her thumb. She awakens to the sight of sad, old Archie Lee carving a hole in the wall so that he can watch her. The scene looks tame now, but it’s remarkably explicit for its time, as the introduction to a movie that TIME pronounced “possibly the dirtiest American made motion picture that has ever been exhibited.” In fact, it was barely exhibited following the Catholic League of Decency’s crusade to keep it out of theaters, and is now most famous for the scandal it caused.
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Soon enough, Archie Lee gropes—and maybe even attempts to rape—Baby Doll. We watch him walk into the bathroom where she’s in the tub. Because the Production Code Administration insisted that Kazan cut a shot of Archie Lee touching her while she’s bathing, the camera remains in the hallway as Baby Doll screams, “Get your hands off me!” The scene may have been meant as a lighthearted demonstration of a husband’s sexual frustration, but, six decades later, it reads as a much darker moment. Another early shot finds Baby Doll licking an ice cream cone as local men chuckle and leer at her, while a little girl sitting nearby eats her dessert unmolested. As an adult woman, even her most innocuous, childlike actions are sexualized.
When Vacarro arrives at the Meighans’ estate, such as it is, Baby Doll’s attraction to him is obvious. She looks wide awake, and flustered, for the first time in the film. Ostensibly assuming she won’t be hard to seduce, he takes advantage of her arousal, hoping he can sweet-talk her into incriminating her husband. While Archie Lee attempts to get his broken cotton gin working, Vacarro follows Baby Doll around their yard. Much of their dialogue is hilarious: When he offers her a pecan from a nearby tree, she proclaims, “I wouldn’t dream of eatin’ a nut a man had cracked in his mouth.” Clearly stifling a chuckle, he murmurs, “You’ve got many refinements.”  
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At other moments, though, Vacarro seems to pose a physical threat to Baby Doll. In a rusting car on the Meighans’ lawn, he sits next to her and throws his leg across her body, trapping her inside. “Would you move your leg?” she pleads, more than once, before scrambling out of the vehicle. He crowds in beside her on a swing, puts his arm around her and picks a piece of cotton lint off the front of her shirt. He leans in, and she leans away. When she stands up, she goes weak in the knees. “The scene on the swings in Baby Doll is my exact idea of what eroticism in films should be,” Kazan told Young. But Baker has just as much fear in her eyes as excitement. Eventually, Baby Doll runs away and threatens to call out to a boy in the street. Then she appeals to Archie Lee, who slaps her, in front of his workers, for interrupting him.
The implication isn’t just that Vacarro might seduce Baby Doll, although her weakness and confusion in the face of a man she finds desirable all but prove she’s too inexperienced to be as promiscuous as Archie Lee, Vacarro and various townspeople seem to believe. Even if the Production Code wouldn’t allow Kazan and Williams to spell it out, it’s clear enough that she’s afraid he might rape her—and that stereotypes about swarthy foreigners contributes to that fear. After he sends her husband away on an unnecessary errand, they take turns chasing each other around the house, until Vacarro corners her in the Meighans’ falling-apart basement and forces her to sign an affidavit confirming Archie Lee’s guilt. It’s only after they regress back to childhood together, with Vacarro napping in the crib while she sings to him, that Baby Doll regains her composure. In that moment, he begins to genuinely fall in love with her.
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Of course, when Archie Lee gets home, the tension between all three characters explodes. Vacarro taunts him with the prospect that their newly forged partnership will require Baby Doll to “entertain” the Sicilian on a daily basis. When she comes downstairs for dinner, she’s changed into a black dress that makes her look more grown up (and allies her with Vacarro, who also wears black). The new lovers kiss for what appears to be the first time while Archie Lee phones some influential friends who he hopes will help him permanently take out his rival. Their dinner abruptly ends with Archie Lee chasing Vacarro around the yard, shotgun ablaze, as Baby Doll calls the local police on her husband.
While the film never loses its comic tone, its resolution makes a much darker, more serious statement than Kazan acknowledged. As he’s being arrested, Archie Lee appeals to a cop—“from one white man to another”—to make sure Vacarro goes home and leave his wife alone. He obliges and assures the man he’s just caught attempting murder, “We gonna have to go through this thing for appearance’s sake.” It seems inevitable that Archie Lee will be released the next morning and that, when he is, he’ll come looking for Vacarro. Nothing is stopping him from killing the Sicilian; if he succeeds, he’ll get his wife and his business back. His buddies on the squad surely won’t bother to investigate the murder. Although Vacarro is the better man by every measure—as he tells Archie Lee at dinner, “I’m foreign, Meighan, but I’m not revengeful” —he can’t defeat small-town xenophobia.
And then there’s poor Baby Doll, who won’t know where her life is headed until one of these two potential rapists emerges victorious. “We got nothin’ to do but wait till tomorrow and see if we’re remembered or forgotten,” she tells her aunt, who serves as the Meighans’ incompetent live-in cook, in the film’s final line of dialogue. Baby Doll’s beauty, which probably seemed like an asset when her father married her off to a supposedly rich man, can’t liberate her—and she finally realizes that. This is as grim a view of women’s plight as you’ll see in pre-1960s cinema.    
It’s Williams’ multilayered script and Baker’s psychologically rich performance, along with Kazan’s singular ability to wring transcendent work out of his actors, that elevate the film beyond its director’s limited ambitions for the story. “You can’t take Baby Doll seriously,” Kazan admonished Young at one point in their interview. But, to his credit, you can.
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atopearth · 3 years
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Collar X Malice: Unlimited Part 6 - Side Stories
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ONWARD (Kazuki SS)
Awww, I love how Akito and Kazuki first met. I think it's really cool that it was Kazuki who chased after him and was interested in him because he saw him doing music related stuff. I guess I'm so used to Kazuki being so harsh and whatever with Ichika that having him actively befriend someone is refreshing haha. I thought it was so cute how Kazuki so genuinely thought Akito's music was amazing, that probably really touched him. On the other hand, it's kinda sad to hear that people only talk to Akito to make fun of him, that's so sad. I wonder if Akito just allows it too because of what happened to his sister, so he wants to know how she might have felt? Anyway, I really love how Akito didn't listen to Kazuki, and told him straight the first time he went over to his place and met Ichika that she was just worried about Akito being here considering how late it was, and that he should greet her since he's in their home, and that it wasn't wrong for Ichika to be worried about him, which I'm very glad for. Kazuki is wayyy too blinded into thinking of Ichika as "the enemy" that it gets really frustrating a lot of the time. Anyway, seeing Ichika in third person perspective is interesting, she's so cute~ It's really cool how much Akito expanded Kazuki's world in music, like not only did he introduce him to bands and other people who play guitar that can give him better advice on his playing, but Akito also tried his best to contribute a lot to helping Kazuki mend his relationship with Ichika. LMAO at Kazuki's imagination of what Isshiki was going to be like and then called him ordinary😂😂
I really enjoyed seeing much more insight into Isshiki's feelings to his pro debut being cancelled. I think what hit me the most was when he talked about starting solo again, and people came to see the "tragic vocalist that got mistakenly arrested" instead of listening to his music as a musician, and I think that probably broke his heart quite a bit. I can see why he would have wanted to quit. Isshiki is really admirable though, but I guess hearing about Fujii's death pushed him to putting everything he could into his music, since it made him realise that your daily life can shatter in an instant, so he wants to appreciate every opportunity and chance he has to sing, and share his music and feelings to as many people as he can. Hearing Akito shout at Kazuki saying he doesn't have the right to continue composing music, especially as a pro made me really sad. The whole time from when Akito met Kazuki to them having fun tweaking their music and everything, Akito was suffering. He was happy that he could compose music and find it fun again, but he also felt really guilty for "having fun" because this was something he felt that he took away from his sister. It was because of this "fun" that he chose to ignore her and signs of her plight because it was too annoying to deal with, and that regret torments him to this day. And then now on top of that, the guilt and pain of all those bullies' lives are weighing on him because he told Zero that the whole class was a part of it and practically deserved to die, and then they did... It's understandable why Akito would think that he doesn't deserve anything "happy" since all he's been doing is taking away lives and the happiness of others.
Honestly, I love Akito and Kazuki's relationship, so seeing them make up and have Akito admit he really enjoys composing music etc was really nice. I also loved how Akito gave Kazuki his own guitar pick, it was so pretty! I'm so glad Akito got them to all take a photo before Kazuki's debut concert with Isshiki and officially formed a band with him. I'm glad Akito wanted to keep such a precious memory. And yep, I really loved this side story. I honestly didn't think there was much to add to Kazuki, Akito's and Isshiki's story anymore but I'm glad I was wrong haha! I think the emotions, their thoughts and their feelings throughout the story were portrayed really well to kinda show how much of a journey Kazuki was on whilst all the X-Day stuff were happening. It was like a whole different life compared to Ichika. But anyway, I really liked how we got to see more of the friendship between the three of them and how they all worked hard because of their passion for music, and how they felt connected to each other through listening to each other's music. I think that's really sweet and I can see better why Akito and Isshiki were always so protective of Kazuki and really understood him, and wanted Ichika to acknowledge him and his hard work. Still doesn't change the fact that I didn't like his attitude to her in the main story, but I liked seeing Kazuki try his best to grow in music and as a person with Akito's and Isshiki's support and acknowledgment.
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Pride (Minegishi SS)
I guess it's interesting to see that aside from civilians in Shinjuku having to try and get used to normal life again, Minegishi is also trying to get used to dealing with "normal cases" and prioritising those rather than just X-Day incidents. I guess it's to expected since the Investigations HQ is disbanding. Considering how much SCRPO gets looked down upon, I'm really happy that Ichika and her diligence in telling civilians to report anything suspicious helped Minegishi and them solve a case with a kidnapper. LOL when Minegishi said he wants to be closer with all his subordinates and then he told Ichika she can call him "Mine-chan"😂😂😂 Imagine calling him that at the police station😂😂 Anyway, I've always really liked how sincere Minegishi is, so I was really happy when he personally went to thank Ichika for helping out with the case, praised her, and then even took her out to lunch. Anyway, even though the incidents are over, people like Saeki and other Adonis members haven't been captured, so it's understandable for Minegishi to still "care" about the X-Day stuff.
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I know Minegishi is mainly interested in Ichika because of how crucial she was to solving the X-Day incidents and he wants to know more about her to see why they targeted her but awww, it would be so cool to have a Minegishi route! Lmaoo at Minegishi's joke saying he came to the station just to see Ichika and receive chocolates from her😂 It was so cuteee when Ichika ran after him and actually gave him chocolates she prepared~🥰 It's so cute how Minegishi loves teasing Ichika because of her funny and honest reactions🥲 I loved the chat Minegishi had with Sasazuka and Okazaki at the cafe hahaha, they're all interested in Ichika in their own way, it's so adorable lol. It's nice to see that Minegishi was in a sense frustrated that he believed he could lead the way to solve the X-Day incidents but in the end relied on one of the many subordinates he didn't take notice of alongside a group of police dropouts. I guess that would be difficult to face when you're so capable. I'm glad Minegishi was a bit more honest with her about his intentions and thoughts. Awww, I loved how Ichika teased Minegishi back in the car ride home! I totally dig their relationship and would have super loved an actual route with Minegishi, so cuteee!
Overall, definitely more of a fluff story than anything else. Makes you wish that Minegishi had a route, but also gives a bit more insight into the idea of the X-Day incidents "ending" and missing it. It makes me miss the main plot of the original game haha, and I guess that was the aim of this route, but at the same time, gotta move forward to accept other things~
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Crossroad (Yoshinari SS)
Honestly, I've always loved Yoshinari because he's obviously capable considering he's in the SP, but he's so silly it's hilarious. Lmaooo at his drawings and notes on all the guys, I loved Enomoto's and Sasazuka's ones, totally shows their personalities😂😂 Yoshinari's sound effects are so funny, especially when he's sad🤣 Hahahahah, Shiraishi calls Yoshinari Inari-kun😂 I actually like inari sushi hahaha. Anyway, considering Shiraishi's nicknames for Sasazuka and Enomoto, him naming Yoshinari anything is actually friendly lol. It was so cute how happy Yoshinari was when he got Ichika to laugh, he's so adorable for trying so hard to talk to her so she won't feel so tense and guarded around him. Considering all the "exotic" things Okazaki likes to try, I'm surprised the durian shake is the one that made Yoshinari nearly vomit hahaha, but maybe that's just because I'm used to the people around me liking durian.
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LMAO when Yoshinari collapsed from hunger and even made Kazuki be nicer (since he was initially quite prickly with Yoshinari) and carry him to their apartment to feed him lol. It's actually kinda cute how that encounter ended up making Kazuki feel like it was easier to approach Yoshinari and chat with him lol. Omg, I didn't expect Yoshinari's past and his relationship with his parents to actually be so...sad. I mean, I can understand to an extent why his parents might feel "resentment" or whatever towards Yoshinari since he never came home, was in a gang etc whilst they were probably working their asses off just to make ends meet, but I honestly don't think I can really empathise with them if they can say something to him like just die somewhere that won't trouble them or whatever, like really??? That's just such a cruel thing to say to your child. It's depressing to think that Yoshinari wanted to make up with them and tried to be an upstanding guy and worked hard to be an SP and stuff to show them that he's changed, but they didn't even want to give him a chance and literally just disowned him, that's really terrible.
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I love how Yoshinari would willingly "make fun" of himself just to defuse and ease a situation (when Kazuki and Ichika clashed after she followed him to his band practice place), but I really love his sincerity. He's not great with his words, but seeing his sincerity and consideration for Kazuki made Ichika understand that she could trust him and wait for Kazuki because someone like Yoshinari asked her to, and that gives her confidence since she isn't aware what Kazuki is always up to. I think it's sweet to see Ichika appreciated that and told him that she trusts him, and I think that really helped Yoshinari too, since he always feels like he's "trouble" because of his past, but hearing someone appreciate him for doing what he did must make him happy. Lmao at everyone in the office being mean to Yoshinari for planning on going on a date with Ichika hahah. Aww, Yoshinari in work mode is pretty cool~ 
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Aww, Ichika crying and hugging Kazuki feeling relieved that he's okay and not in danger anymore was so cute. Gotta feel sorry for Kazuki, he's always targeted lmao. Anyway, seeing the scene with Ichika and Kazuki being able to be more honest with each other and care for each other openly made me really happy. It also made me think, this is probably one of the reasons why I always found it "sad" in Sasazuka's route that they made it like Kazuki needed to "grow up" and live by himself so she could be with Sasazuka properly, when I feel like it's so sad that Kazuki and Ichika have finally made up and can be a "proper" family now, but they didn't even get to spend much time together yet. But it's okay lol, since we get to see her bond with Kazuki in moments like these in other routes.
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I can understand why Yoshinari is so insistent on detaching himself from Ichika and them though. As an emotional person myself, when I get attached to people, it would definitely affect my feelings, my thoughts and how I handle things regardless of how much I want to stay logical, so I usually adopt something similar to Yoshinari's way of doing things. But I'm so glad that Yoshinari just went screw that after Ichika gave him a scarf for Christmas haha. In the end, as he said, people aren't machines, and life is too short to hesitate and give up on things like that when it's so difficult to find someone you actually like! Too bad the world wants to bully Yoshinari too, so even though he was able to talk back to Okazaki and tell him he seriously wanted to tell Ichika his feelings, the writers didn't want him to lol. Oh, and I loved how all the guys treated Yoshinari like an abandoned puppy outside in the cold and kept giving him food and stuff so he would keep warm whilst on the job, that was so cute hahaha.
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Overall, I quite liked Yoshinari's story, I think it was really cute to see how even though Yoshinari is kinda like the "joke" character that gets bullied, he also has a past that allowed him to connect with Kazuki on a deeper level and help mend Kazuki and Ichika's relationship in his own way. I really liked how sincere Yoshinari was to everyone, and I think it's with such a personality that everyone is able to do the same with him. I think a romance with Yoshinari and Ichika would be so adorable with how they are, and I also really like his friendship with Kazuki so I think they would be a really warm family hahahah. If only we got proper routes for all these side characters🥲🥲🥲 Definitely enjoyed all the side stories and in a sense, they were probably much more fun than the actual routes haha!
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swearronchanel · 7 years
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ALRIGHT HERE IT FINALLY IS; 6.03 by me
I apologize in advance: this will be lengthy  LONG AF, as it’ll be part-my thoughts watching live & part-post comments to certain thoughts
ALSO** DISCLAIMER** I SHOULD’VE SAID THIS A WHILE AGO BUT I’LL SAY IT NOW that I type my thoughts VERBATIM, which is why it’s never in essay format because eh, it’s not me. IT ALSO MEANS I CURSE A LOT IM SORRY IT JUST COMES OUT, I’M NOT ELOQUENT ENOUGH TO MAKE MY POINT WITH BETTER WORDS .. Anyway I shall begin, feel free to comment on anything *just don’t come @ me for literally just thinking something* 
Ready @flyingnonny, @marialujan22
Cute little community, alright let’s see what’s going down
Chinese laundry a little stereotypical but I get it
SHELAGH’S UNIFORM BARELY FIT HA AW
“dear Patrick!” Laura is so adorable I can’t
The smiles in the mirror!! *shit after I think about it, more parallels. Shelagh’s looked in the mirror in so many of her great scenes. Series 1! & 2! & was that 4 with the nurse’s uniform the first time! Ah my bby growing up 😭
Lol sister Ursula’s annoying ass still here .. not for LONG THOUGH😊
NO ONE INVITED U ALONG SIS
dead @ Patrick’s reaction, someone gif it
Her mother in law looks mean as hell
Is Lucy mixed?
ah yep called it. Damn deported? Too relevant today..
PHYLLIS
I just get so excited now I love her
Lmao remember when I legit didn’t like her because of her comments to Shelagh before she came back to nursing. DONT WORRY IM OVER THAT
Shelagh looks so pretty!! More of her in cute outfits with the hair down pls 😍
Here for her 1962 wardrobe
Lol lullaby type music what’s she pulling out
“Tempting fate” stop! No bby everything will be okay if not I’m losing my shit
Sister J & Shelagh moments are precious ** Ah you guys reminded me of again another parallel I’m so here for it.
But like if she’s almost halfway as sister j says, has she told everyone already? we shall see, or maybe it’ll be implied
Shelagh saying “WHAT?” is most of my internal monologue in just about all my classes
FUCK, SISTER URSULA ARE YOU FOR REAL
Phyllis’s hand raise tryna avoid actually saying “no offense” to Dr Turner is gold
UGH I CAND STAND THIS NUN UGH
I will bet all my the cash in my wallet (prob $30 at most) we’ll see a soft side to her and Ima still be like “adios puta”
Shelagh’s like “we have a game plan” aw she is pure gold, protect her at all costs what the hell!¡💖
Also if no one at nonnatus knows this could’ve been a perfect chance to tell them, or someone could’ve been eyeing her walking around the table and suspecting? Like Phyllis would notice, she knows everything
Shelagh looking at Patrick literally like “is this bitch serious??”
This isn’t Downton Abbey, I never hated a ‘main character’ (don’t come @ me I hated a few characters but still loved the show)
SISTER URSULA STRESSED? OH WELL
Yo did sister Julienne really not slide Shelagh a new uniform? She’s in a cute outfit but c'mon
Lol this lady knows she’s pregnant
Fred angrily spinning the wheel, I feel
DONT TOUCH THE ROLODEX
PHYLLIS COME AT HERRRRR
20 min visits, “OK”.
Oh no. I sense a sad story coming
Phyllis’s little run, precious
Sister Julienne spilling the tea, but again I don’t care about sister Ursula’s feelings or backstory
WAIT WHO CALLED A THREAT OF GETTING SHUT DOWN THOUGH? IT WASN’T ME BUT I REMEMBER READING IT? Lol score for u because I didn’t see this coming (even though I know damn well they’re not shutting down, like the show would be over)
PHYLLIS ANGRILY EATING IS ME
IDEALLY I’D WANNA SAY I’M TRIXIE BUT HONESTLY WHEN AM I NOT PHYLLIS
she’s my hero anyway, no disappointment
Angela is precious
Tim trying be funny lol but we actually hate sister Ursula
HA NO SQUIRRELS , WAIT so today literally a squirrel ran across the feet and I freaked out. My campus is full of squirrels but like I’m from NYC I don’t fuck with them.
Ok, A) Shelagh’s shoes kinda don’t match but I’ll let it go & 2) is it implied everyone @ nonnatus knows? Like how has she not had a checkup this whole time. I guess Patrick could but that’s doesn’t seem likely
Toad in the hole??  que eso?
I think I said the other day I think she’s watching tv somewhere
MAKE SISTER MJ RETIRE ?? UM HOW DARE U SAY A THING LIKE THAT
The table: *collective gasps* me: *LOUDER GASP*
EVERYONE WAS SHOOK WHEN SHE CALLED BARBARA A SLACKER
Why is babs taking it to heart? Like she sucks anyway
I love Phyllis damn it, not in a way I love Trixie and Shelagh though, it’s different I can’t explain it
I need Phyllis to encourage me to stay in university PLS (some one meet Linda Basset & send me a video of it)
Ah “delightful” screams. This show terrifies me to think about being pregnant one day lol. Like I thought my mother’s stories were bad enough but nah
Shelagh: *is frustrated* me: *gets frustrated* RELAX BBY
how did they really leave her alone, DAMN IT SISTER U, THIS THREATENED MISCARRIAGE WILL BE ON YOU
Also someone get her a new uniform she’s going to dirty her nice clothes
When did scrubs become a thing ?? my mother has like a zillion pairs & I can’t imagine her working in a dress all day. Omg I gotta find a picture one day from when she graduated nursing school she had such a similar style uniform to the nonnutans, I love it 😂
Patrick needs to put his damn finger down im tired of that shit. If he ever does it again with Shelagh I’ll flip a lid
Anyways..
Did she not want a girl?? @ in law
“no, a girls very special” aw
“MY WIFE IS SPREAD TOO THINLY” ha like on a cracker JK STOP STRESSING SHELAGH
“She wouldn’t appreciate the term Elderly primigravida” ha true man, remember she said that last series
lol I wanna see her reaction if they ever label her again
UM SIS YOU ARE TRYING TO STOP THEM FROM BEING COMPASSIONATE AND HELPFUL THOUGH?
get the fuck outta here, let them send sister MJ away I will revolt
Saw this scene haha, hope Ursula falls off
Damn came at Lucy, what’s wrong with Linda haha, that’s my gram’s name
She’s so chill about that, me? I wouldn’t let that go. I’m also so damn extra & annoying
“HELLS BELLS” Lmaoo
Not the same as Phyllis saying “Hells teeth” but that’s catchy
Also Patrick can’t type that’s funny
“mending your dress” FIRST OF ALL PATRICK, SHUT UP
YES SHELAGH TELL HIM
“Cool, calm, collected & professional” love her
SHE LAUGHED BUT CRINGED I NEED The GIF
You guys don’t understand, i need to screenshot a conversation with one of my friends. Her and I only ever use CtM screenshots for message reactions it’s so funny but also weird in a way😂 sometimes their cringes are better than basic memes
But to be honest they really have never fought? Lmao that moment could’ve been a little argument but they got over it too quick, bc/ how do they ALWAYS agree/get on? (Excluding the adoption issue but whatever)
Lol why did she have to get up, you get up Patrick
Her outfit is so cute !! My bby
AW!, they’re cute, I’ll forgive him
former nun sitting on a mans lap I love it!¡ without context it sounds funnier
“We’ll pull through, we always do” better be some foreshadow for something good!
I don’t think she has postpartum though
*SUCKS TEETH* UMM BABS not checking the baby is prob a bad move
Shelagh definitely has a baby bump at that angle, DOES EVERYONE KNOW or not WTF?
Bby you feel pain that’s not good u know this !
seriously does Barbara not see it
I’M MRS COLLIER OR WHATEVER BRINGING UP THE SUBJECT & BETTING ON IT
“Have you all been speculating?” HAHH
“Well I don’t approve of gambling on the premises” SHELAGH YOU ARE A GEM
seriously protect her at all costs, I know it’s coming but I don’t know when or how
ALSO THESE PATIENTS KNOW AND ARE ABOUT TO TELL EVERYONE THEY SEE, SO AGAIN, DO THEY KNOW @ NONNATUS?
shit they screaming, calm down ladies
“SPOILED UNGRATEFUL GIRL” SHIT SHE PLAYED HER
lol Patrick trying to play it all off like he’s calm, cool and collected
WHY IS THE INSPECTOR SHADY?
no one asked u to be honest keep it pushing
Also it’s 31 MINS IN & TRIXIE IS NOT HERE YET? like when is she coming? I’m less hopeful of her saving the day the more time goes bye :/
WHY IS THE BABY NOT BREATHING?
“how can you [maternity home] compete with that [hospital]?”
JUST WATCH
Don’t blame yourself Barbara :/
Again Shelagh’s having pain, it’s going to be soon isn’t it?
This better not be the heart to heart Laura mentioned ** ah we’re good it’s not
#SaveTheMaternityHome2k17
Shelagh is going to the bathroom OMG SHES GONNA BLEED NOW RIGHT
FUCK, SHE IS. MY BBY💔💔
DIOS MIO AYUDA ME
she’s so scared, I cry for her
“Hello nurse Crane, it’s Shelagh..” *omg she rarely introduces herself & even less as Shelagh & I feel no one calls her that but Sister J & Patrick?
PROTECT SHELAGH AT ALL COSTS
why St Cuthberts vs the London?
DOES THIS MEAN PHYLLIS KNOWS? I need answers
Phyllis being a badass simply walking down the hall
BEATRIX BBY💕💕
HERE SHE IS, LETS GET IT
I hope this baby lives omg
I mean baby Lin, baby Turner will happen
FUCK THE INSPECTION YOU’RE MORE IMPORTANT SHELAGH
THE MAGNIFICENT PHYLLIS CRANE
Shelagh in the hospital bed is breaking my heart I swear I don’t have
PHYLLIS IS GOING TO HANDLE SISTER URSULA & SAVE THE DAY
I wanted it to be Trixie but IM NOT MAD LETS GET IT PHYLLIS
ugh pls save the maternity home
my poor girl looking so sad **** also how did she get all her things on the table?
Give Laura Main every damn award this series, I don’t care if we’re only 3 episodes in.
Her bump looks more visible in the hospital gown? do you think it’s a pillow or something lol
TRAGIC BACKSTORY UNLOCKED
SHIT ITS SO SAD omg, I’m cryin
PHYLLIS FINALLY PRESSING SISTER URSULA, TELL HER
AW babs we all feel
Phyllis protecting Barbara aw
There’s not been as much Trixie as I had hoped 💔
But she’s back bitches and I’m happy I missed her
So Barbara smokes for real now, but Trixie doesn’t share her black cigarettes haha
Take your weak apology and go
I CALLED IT, DONT @ ME
I KNEW SISTER MJ WAS WATCHING TV SOMEWHERE
they put a bench out for her how sweet
Sister MJ saying “silence” then “shh it’s starting” is me every week watching this damn show
It hurts that I am so invested in this show
How did it happen I don’t know but I love it so much 
Barbara’s ring is pretty
All is well & everything is almost back to normal and lovely *for now*
Sister Julienne is so faithful, like I really would struggle to be so compassionate
Sister Ursula is upset and I’m awful because I do not care
I knew they’d show her vulnerable side so we’d change our minds but I can’t
Sister Julienne you’re so great
It wasn’t a leak??
YES SHE’S ALIVE
“I’m going to the mother house” *squees* YES ENJOY, THANK YOU FOR THE DISTRESS, PLEASE BE ON YOUR WAY
Sister Julienne don’t ask her to reconsider
This was a sweet moment but still don’t like Sister Ursula
AW SISTER MJ I LOVE YOU
she’s so pure, protect her!
Nice leaving the door open Sister Ursula
HATE THE CHARACTER, but you HAVE TO ADMIT HARRIET WALTER IS AN EXCELLENT ACTRESS
Phyllis driving her is only right
YES SISTER J IS BACK IN CHARGE
#LETS GET IT 1962
Trixie’s concerned, WHERE IS SISTER MARY CYNTHIA?? ** I really thought Trixie was going to play a bigger role in this episode & I thought this was going to be a longer scene but there’s 5 more episodes, I won’t complain I’ll just be patient. LOL JK UM when is Trixie going to get some time to shine
Oh Shelagh 💔
Aw the Chen’s
OKAY THEY’RE CELEBRATING & EVERYONE’S HAPPY BUT DO THEY NOT KNOW ABOUT SHELAGH? ** **I’m still not sure if they even know she’s expecting but why was Sister Julienne not told she was in the hospital? I know it happened fast but there was time. I don’t like how this played out like it seemed pushed aside but I guess that’s what next episode will address (I hope)
Otherwise, excellent as always
AH VANESSA REDGRAVE & THE NARRATION >>
“We are all traveling through one another’s countries but it is no matter if we meet as strangers, for we can join forces and learn to love..” ah this so applies today ugh the world is insane
BONUS: PREVIEW FOR NEXT WEEK
New midwife = Valerie’s coming back which is cool but also she’s going to be problematic so *hmm* maybe not
Fred and Violet are cute but still cringing & laughing about them in episode 1
“..The way the world treats women” MORE PHYLLIS BEING THE MAGNIFICENT GEM SHE IS, I AM EXCITED  
finding out Tom’s past will be interesting, I’m thinking his mom almost gave him away but then didn’t? probably was raised with out a dad maybe? We’ll see
“We were happy enough before and we’ll be happy again, whatever happens” I don’t freaking know if this is Patrick comforting or breaking but I’m going to BAWL NEXT WEEK. Shelagh’s face omg💔 I can’t take this like she’s been through so much! They’ve been through so much heartache, what more can they take. UGH WTF I feel like they never get to enjoy anything, & I know “that’s life” & “it’s a drama” or whatever you say but damn. I love this poor character so much (why?¿!) & she’s usually sad in every series !!
The End.🙃 it’s 1:52am, I should go to bed.
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drink-n-watch · 5 years
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Here we are, the penultimate episode, and I’m already a little sad. As much as I’m going to miss this surprisingly loveable little show, I think I might miss our after reviewing tradition even more. OK maybe not more, it really is a very sweet show, but just as much!
It’s been great! I hope you’ve felt as creatively free as I have!
Crow (crowsworldofanime.com) and I have been pretty united in out praise of Zombieland Saga so far but this was an odd episode. Let’s see if the trend can stay true to the end. Not that I’m teaching you guys anything but Crow is bold man.
Well, bold-ish…
this is meta, why is Zombieland showing me watching the show?
Straight off the bat, this episode was a bit of a gamble for Zombieland. Not that it’s unusual to have the before last episode take a tonal turn, it’s actually fairly common. However, this week’s Zombieland wasn’t only uncharacteristically sober, it reframed the main character into something that may not be as likable to the core audience. Effectively throwing out a lot of character clichés and even robbing Sakura of any real redemption arc. Any feelings about the narrative shuffle?
You’ve honed in on exactly the part of the episode that left me feeling uneasy — at least, emotionally jolted. Sakura’s despair and self-reproach are almost too familiar! And at the same time, those apparent failures in her life, and her reaction to them, robbed her of the ability to understand something important: That she really helped those old ladies. That she really had friends who rooted for her. The insight changed how we have to interpret the entire Sakura arc, and it also raises an important psychological “what if…” But let’s leave that for later.
sort of…
As soon as the episode started I got excited. Last week’s cliffhanger was one of the best I’ve seen in a while and I couldn’t wait to see how they were going to resolve it with so little time left. I never expected them to play it straight. Although, I’m not sure what I expected at all.
You and me both! The show’s conditioned me to expect subtle irreverence at every turn, but this time, they plowed straight ahead.
Sakura has lost her memories of being a zombie but remembers her life. Which turns out to be frustrating and unsatisfying. Moreover, her traumatic death is just the last straw in what she considers an utter failure of a life. Completely demoralized, Sakura more or less shuts down, and pushes everyone and everything else away.
she’s pretty much always like this
The opening scenes, with Sakura freaking out over the zombies, were a nice way to call back to episode 1 and bookend the series though. Even the visuals were parallel.
And, of course, she just had to meet Tae first! And Tae has such a gentle way of saying “Good morning!”
Saki looked so worried about Sakura and it was adorable!
All of their reactions were just heartbreaking!
agreed
I must say, that was an impressively down to earth portrayal of depression. It was a bit obvious, although I’m not sure they could have done otherwise considering the time constraints, but it was also unflinching. There was something weirdly admirable about Zombieland’s resolve to not just let Sakura magically snap out of it.
That’s another aspect that left me feeling so unsettled — and I don’t mean that in a bad way. It was too spot on. But given who Sakura is, and given what this show’s presented so far, I can think of only a handful of other shows that could trigger this kind of reaction.
this framing is brilliant
Equally laudable, in my opinion, was the grim repercussions on Saki, Junko and Lily who attempted to help.These situations don’t just affect one person, they affect everyone around as well. And they affected them all in different ways. This was far from a flattering depiction of Sakura but sometimes, when you fall far enough, you just don’t have the strength to empathise anymore.
I couldn’t believe how bad I felt for the others as they tried to help her! Especially Saki and poor Lily! For Lily to go from “Before you said you thought that star and my smile were cute!” to sobbing uncontrollably into her pillow drove home a critical point: That until now, these zombie idols have supported each other; and now that one of those pillars of support is crumbling, all of them are in turmoil.
and the repetition makes it truly special
Once again, Zombieland Saga is tackling a fairly serious and not at all funny subject openly and resisting the urge to turn it into farce. I really didn’t expect any of this when I started the show!
I remember the old M*A*S*H series. Great comedy for its time, but because of the comedic expectations, it had an opportunity to make powerfully dramatic points — as long as they didn’t do it too often. I get that vibe from this show!
You know what, I see it now. I loved M*A*S*H (use to watch reruns with my folks). That cutting sensibility is very much like Zombieland!
most of us feel this way
After having hurt the people closest to her (and having them retreat helpless, not knowing what to do), Sakura just aimlessly wanders the night ending up in a park.
Here we see the return of the creepy police officer. He didn’t really have much to do other than once again instill the feeling of déjà vue. But just like everything else this week, the familiar scene played out completely differently. The downtrodden and hurt Sakura was almost pleading to be shot. A sort of balm to her intangible pain. The entire thing was extremely unsettling and yet, oddly pretty.
I remember thinking it was tragically beautiful.
this scene was delicae, poignant and solemnly meaningful…
I should have realized it sooner of course. Sakura has always been a bit helpless after all. I should have seen that she was being set up as a damsel in distress. Still, such an unusual distress for anime.
In the end though, Sakura at her worst, brought our Kotarou at his best. Manager made his glorious entrance in the nick of time. Knocking out the cop (that poor guy has to have some long term brain damage by now) and swooping in to save the day.
Maybe that’s why he’s so creepy? One (or ten) too many blows to the head?
he’s had a few shocks
Manager has never been that great with words. It’s part of the gag. And although Zombieland played the scene seriously, he still wasn’t exactly inspiring. Sakura was more confused than motivated. This said, there was enough feeling, care and passion behind his words to at least give her something to latch onto!
May favourite line of dialogue was manager exclaiming “It doesn’t matter if you don’t have it, because I do!” The I’m good enough to make you good pep talk is not what we usually hear and I loved it. Would have worked on me! How about you?
It would have been so unexpected that it’d have a good chance at loosening my defenses. And did you catch how the show played with the trope of the voice of reason (the manager, in this case) storming off to let the main character wallow in a miserable soliloquy? Just as Sakura is descending into a self-loathing speech, Koutarou startles her with “Yeah, you thought I was done, huh?” Loved it. This show knows how to teeter right on the edge of melodrama!
surprisingly, that might be true
One of the few straight up jokes in this episode, was Yuguri dressing up in full geisha get up, and looking mightily impressive I might add, just to realize Sakura’s already left. I really would have loved to see Yuuri in that outfit longer. Any thoughts?
My first thought was the typical male response. I mean, Good Lord, she looked amazing! But then I had this sudden chill and realized that Yuguri had slapped before, and she could slap again! I was in fear for Sakura’s face!
I’m not thinking about anyone else’s face
This episode brought up a fascinating question: Just how profound an impact do our life experiences have on our hopes? In Sakura’s case, she weathered a seriously frustrating series of events. From an operant conditioning perspective alone, I can understand her reaction! But to be running out of the house, all excited to be back on track, and get killed? Jeesh!
But in her case, and apparently in her case alone, her amnesia was a complete blessing.
I still can’t get the image if Lily sobbing into her pillow out of my head. All of them are standing on such thin ice…
Saki is all of us
For me it was Saki. Frustrated, lost and a little scared Saki. First time we are seeing hr shaken up. If Saki can’t just make it all better and shrug it off, what are we going to do?
Seeing her check her thumb nail was such a perfect way to show her pain.
[ Did you want to mention anything about Koutarou’s conversation in the bar? In the comments on the ZLS 11 review on Random Curiosity, https://randomc.net/2018/12/13/zombieland-saga-11/, users Nene and Panino Manino had some really interesting theories…
This was a difficult episode to watch — and to review! Thanks for setting up the frame! ]
risk it, it’s worth it
Guys, this little bracketed text is in fact just meant for me. I’m leaving it in. I like seeing behind the curtain stuff on posts so I think you guys might enjoy it too. I also really like that Crow pays attention to his fellow bloggers and readers. He often points out comments or posts I have missed and I am very much richer for it.
You should go read Nene and Panino’s theories.I unfortunately don’t know enough to add anything interesting.
This said, manager’s bar scene was very intriguing. I didn’t originally comment on it in the post proper because I had so many things to get to, I didn’t want to overcrowd it but you know what – clarity has never been my brand.
flashback scene without warning or context!
There’s a reason your blog’s so popular! (dawwww)
These are my random takeaways from that scene. The village of Saga itself is responsible for the zombie phenomenon in some way, and Koutarou is not the only one who knows. He also plans to make it public at some point.
Koutarou himself has been around for a while. Since it’s very reasonable to think that he’s also not quite human, he could be hundreds of years old for all we know. This may be one of dozens of attempts to save Saga.
Maybe that’s why Saga’s still there at all?
this took a turn
The bartender seemed to have a very close personal relationship with Yuguri. Considering the family theme so far, I’m tempted to say he’s her dad.
Yuguri is a courtesan, which implies a lot of things. Although she is certainly charming and imposing, she has so far avoided being openly seductive or sexual. This could simply be because of the tone of the series but it may also have something to do with her life. Did she leave someone important behind?
I’m still wondering about the scar around her neck!
what do you mean just one episode left?
There cannot just be one episode left. We have so very much to explore still!
I’ll second that. It seems like this season has just given us a brief glimpse into a zombie world that’s coexisted with the human world — apparently for hundreds of years! Are there other zombies out and about? It seems they’ve kept themselves private, but I think you’re right when you say Koutarou wants to make it public — why else do something as obvious as an idol group?
And I’m just not ready to say goodbye to Franchouchou!
Despite using do many in the post, I actually still have a few screencaps left. I hope you enjoy them. This week was great for caps.
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Irina and Crow in Zombieland (Saga) ep11: It’s Always Darkest Before the Dawn Here we are, the penultimate episode, and I’m already a little sad. As much as I’m going to miss this surprisingly loveable little show, I think I might miss our after reviewing tradition even more.
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