YouTube turns 10! Oh gosh, how crazy is that?! What's mad is that this little site has only been around for ten years and yet it has taken the world by storm. From the Beauty tutorials we always wanted, to the hilarious challenges we didn't know we wanted - YouTube has been the best source of entertainment, comfort and solace. So to celebrate this joyous occasion, here are ten of my favourite YouTubers so far in this journey.
I decided to start a new segment on this dear blog of mine called first impressions, where I basically talk about my initial thoughts on a television show or even an experience. This week's topic - Empire, the show everybody can not stop talking about at all!
After weeks of anticipation - and constantly hearing No Apologies on E4 this past month - , Empire finally aired last week on UK screens. I loved it - absolutely loved it. Empire is my new addiction, and I can not wait to devour every single minute that comes my way.
Friendships need to be nurtured, maintained especially over time - when distance is at play. They should be appreciated - not only on your dark days but happy ones too. It's important not to take them for granted, because time and lack of absolute contact can lead to their down fall. Over the years, I've picked up tips and ideas of how to keep friendships fresh and constant. So here are a few ways to help keep your friendship strong over the years ...
You've spent what seems like forever carrying out your university work, or working all day at the office, and you can't wait to come home and just unwind. A much well-deserved break, if you ask me. Life gets so busy sometimes, and it seems like a list of never ending chores. But it's so important to take some time out for yourself every once in a while, and give yourself some time to re-energise. It's been proven that taking a break and letting the mind wonder, helps increase productivity as well. Everyone has different ways of relaxing at the end of the day. Here are just a few tips to help you find yours!
Jumping straight back into action, Mockingjay Part 1 starts where Catching Fire picks off. As Katniss struggles to come top terms with the loss of her comrades especially Peeta, District 13 begins to prepare together the equipment to take on the capital. A war is brewing right on the horizon, and so much is at stake.
I was never really a fan of the final book in The Hunger Games series, mostly because of it's sour end. I expected to love the first part of Mockingjay, and sourly dislike the latter. But I'm surprised to say Mockingjay Part 1 is my least favourite film in the series. The story itself sets up for epic finale I'm sure, but that feels like this movie's main and sole purpose. It was truly amazing seeing the political workings of a war, but everything else falls short. The engaging elements from the book were missing from this military based adaptation, and I really don't understand why, since it had enough time to divulge and explore. It's clear that Katniss takes complete front and centre in this film - with very little room for other players to contend. All in all, I'm pretty disappointed with the outcome of this movie, and I can already tell that Part 2 will definitely be better than this.
Time for Spoilers ....
I'm homesick for a place that just doesn't exist. My heart lies divided in two places. The place I grew up in, and the place I live in. They both hold memories dear to me. My childhood home holds my friends and my family. Those evenings we spent by the park, playing around the swings and talking about moments in our teenage lives. Those days spent watching movies around the dinner table, with a bowl of my mother's homemade chilli popcorn shared between my parents and I. Now my world holds the independence I always longed for, but never could find in that old hometown of mine. It comes with it's own structure and responsibilities - words my young teenage-self use to avoid like the plague. Instead of waiting for my mother's home made dinners, I create my own with recipes I've discovered on the internet. I make my own flavours with sauces and peppers from the local supermarket across the road. Life is different now. I love it. I do. But then ...
Then comes the feeling of nostalgia. Old friends and places I no longer can visit. Roads that use to be 10 minutes away - within the grasp of my feet - are now three hours away, down a long road which I can not follow. Going back wouldn't help - since people are scattered and following their own path miles away. So I look ahead and find unfamiliar but friendly faces to converse with and become companions on the journey ahead. We talk and we laugh - long hours into the night. With words spoken, and thoughts unsaid. Memories in the making, changing our statuses from acquaintances to friends over time. It does not replace, but it helps to erase, that lingering ghost that calls me to look upon my shoulder, at memories from years before. I still reminisce, but not as much as before. This place I'm living in is slowly becoming my home.
So torn between the world I live in and the world I grew up in. I'm missing a place that doesn't truly exist anymore. So I call up my friends in this new town I've been calling home, and decide to have a movie marathon till 2am to take away these home felt blues. And in those moments I know, it'll pass. As I look upon the faces of the people I have come to know, I feel a tenderness that can only be described as being home. And then I truly know. That one day, I no longer will be homesick. I'll just be content with this small little place I've come to live.
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Inspired by my own university experience, I decided to create something that was poetically reminiscent of that time frame of when you're in transition. That period of time, when you've moved to a new town - far from your hometown - and are being to create a new life there. Even if you haven't experienced it just yet, you may do some day. Weather it's for university, a job in a foreign city, or maybe you'll be married and moved to a different country. It's human nature to look back over our shoulders at the past, whilst still trying to creating memories and moments in the present. Who knows maybe you can relate?
I hope you enjoy it! Any thoughts?
One thing I love to do is create playlists to suit each mood. I love how with every song I hear, I come to imagine a scenario, or even reminisce on the past memory or experience I've had. It's a tool I continue to use as a creative when I'm looking for story inspiration, or even when I need motivation to edit together the pieces I'm putting together. As I'm currently working on a few creative pieces, I thought I'd put together a broken hearted mix to get myself truly in the mindset of heartbreak - the unavoidable side-effect to living life.
Dedicated to all those moments when you feel like your heart is breaking into two, and there is nothing you can do to mend it back together. Like you'll never become whole again.
On this month's challenge on A Year of Happy, the task is to make something that you find beautiful. A challenge that encourages me to be more creative - awesome! I've been keeping a little project of mine underwraps for a while now and I decided this may be the perfect moment to unveil it!
It's only a few weeks left until the possibly last season première of Teen Wolf, excitement is in the air! Especially as MTV released the most gripping, and absolutely terrifying teaser trailer for Season Five. The Doctor will see you now?! What the freaking hell is going on this season?! There are just so many possibilities, so many ways that this season could go. Here are a few theories of what I would love to happen on Teen Wolf...
Aged 24, Matt Haig found himself feeling lost and hopeless, seeing no way he could go on living. Reason To Stay Alive is an account of that journey and how he overcome his struggle from the dark depths of his illness.
I remember stumbling across this book by accident through twitter. I had heard there would be a book signing with Matt Haig - and being an avid book signing attender I thought I'd go. Having the privilege of hearing Matt speak about his novel was pretty much what sold this book to me, and I'm so glad it did. Reasons to Stay Alive is an important non-fictional novel, that gives a preview into one individual's experience of depression and anxiety. To those who've suffered, it provides solace. To those who haven't experienced those troubles, it gives a glimpse into the hardships and struggles others face on a daily bases. I found this book re-enacts that heavy feeling of a weight you can not explain, and yet tells these stories with a hopeful twist for the future. Well worth reading, and definitely one of the must read novels for everybody this year!
Love Rosie is an enjoyable read, that definitely has some hilarious moments that will have you laughing so hard! But what struck me the most about this story is it tells the realistic struggle of adulthood. Not many romantic novels I've seen have done that pretty accurately. It's honest and authentic - well worth reading whatever age you may be. My only main flaw with this book was it dragged out its love story unnecessarily, draining out its quirky nature and narrative till it's very end.
Now, time for spoilers. Back away from the computer if you have not read this yet. Spoilers be waiting ...
Back when I first got into the early forms of blogging on Livejournal, I remember doing a tag called 101 things in 1001 days - which is exactly what it sounds like. Completing 101 tasks that you set out to do in 1001 days. Funny enough, I don't even remember half the things I wrote on that list! Let alone if I accomplished half of them. So I decided to redo this task, and actually achieve most if not all on my list. Second times the charm, right? So without further ado, lets get this show on the road!
Chuck Bass is A. That's right, Charles Bartholomew Bass is A. Tired of his mundane days in the Upper East Side, Chuck was looking for more adventure and thrill seeking fun, especially since Blair was no longer on speaking terms with him. One afternoon Chuck stumbled across an old family photo, but not with his biological father. There in the picture taken in American suburbia was the foster mother he had come to love, a young boy with dirt blonde hair and his sister with luscious golden locks and a dazing smile. Oh he had known Alison Dilaurentis for many years. His father, unable to deal with the pain of his mother's loss, had sent Chuck - or Charles as Jessica Dilaurentis use to refer to him as - to the Dilaurentis. She was kind to him - as kind as anyone could be. Her daughter however was another story.
I've been to a lot of book signings in the past several years, and in some ways they've become my addiction. I love going to them and hearing authors talk about their life experiences - the events that inspired them to create their novels. From every single book signing I've been to, I've always been able to learn something from each and everyone of them. But this particular one has a very special place in my heart. I first heard about Jennifer Niven through her best selling book, 'All the Bright Places', which has recently been auctioned for a film adaptation. After reading the first couple of pages from her novel, I was sold. So I headed down to my local Waterstones, prepared to meet Jennifer.
Reign tells the story of young Mary, the Queen of Scotts, as she returns back to French Court when an assassination attempt is made on her life. Betrothed to the future king of France - Francis, Mary must attempt to secure an alliance with the nation before Scotland falls into the hands of war and the English.
If you liked Gossip Girl and have a soft spot for period dramas like Downton Abbey, this show is so for you. Reign has the most enchanting historical elements, alongside some pretty gossip like events. It's so gripping. I literally have consumed every single episode, so curious to find out what would happen next. I see so much future potential for this show, and I can't wait to see what Season Two has to offer.
Highlights
It's been a while since I've seen something so historic, and gosh it was so wonderful to watch. I was just in such awe of it all - the set design, the costumes and dialogue. It was very enchanting and enticing. Reign has this element of old school Gossip Girl, where romance and everyday life experiences are central, but yet there is a political conflict thrown into the fold. Mary and Francis - the main leads of the show - are constantly obligated to fulfil their duties to their respective countries (England and France), which complicates things for their personal love lives and the decisions they make. I found the political aspects of this show so intriguing. I don't think I've seen a show full of such heightened emotion, depicting what it could have been like to be a royal historically before the age of democracy took over.
Now I'll admit Reign probably isn't the most authentic show around, and it also takes quite a few liberalities with the events history, but that's what I enjoy about it. It leaves room for exploration beyond history. I can only hope the producers of the show don't abuse that freedom too much in the next coming seasons.
Shortcomings
The first half of Season One was definitely the strongest part of Reign. It established the show very well, and gave it so many dimensions to progress and evolve. But as the episodes continued on, the producers focused way too much on certain romantic relationships more than they should have. I wished they'd paid more attention in those episodes to more - like the political power relationship between each character, and the English threat. There was so many dynamics that I felt didn't reach their true potential. It was definitely a lost opportunity.
Conclusion
I really enjoyed Reign. I fell in love with the historical elements of the show, and the complexity of relationships between characters - especially between Mary and Francis, when their political duties to their own countries came into play in their lives. I'm excited to see the next step this show takes as it continues to develop!
So what did you think of Reign: Season One? Hit or Miss?
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If you liked Gossip Girl and have a soft spot for period dramas like Downton Abbey, this show is so for you. Reign has the most enchanting historical elements, alongside some pretty gossip like events. It's so gripping. I literally have consumed every single episode, so curious to find out what would happen next. I see so much future potential for this show, and I can't wait to see what Season Two has to offer.
* * * *
Highlights
It's been a while since I've seen something so historic, and gosh it was so wonderful to watch. I was just in such awe of it all - the set design, the costumes and dialogue. It was very enchanting and enticing. Reign has this element of old school Gossip Girl, where romance and everyday life experiences are central, but yet there is a political conflict thrown into the fold. Mary and Francis - the main leads of the show - are constantly obligated to fulfil their duties to their respective countries (England and France), which complicates things for their personal love lives and the decisions they make. I found the political aspects of this show so intriguing. I don't think I've seen a show full of such heightened emotion, depicting what it could have been like to be a royal historically before the age of democracy took over.
Now I'll admit Reign probably isn't the most authentic show around, and it also takes quite a few liberalities with the events history, but that's what I enjoy about it. It leaves room for exploration beyond history. I can only hope the producers of the show don't abuse that freedom too much in the next coming seasons.
Shortcomings
The first half of Season One was definitely the strongest part of Reign. It established the show very well, and gave it so many dimensions to progress and evolve. But as the episodes continued on, the producers focused way too much on certain romantic relationships more than they should have. I wished they'd paid more attention in those episodes to more - like the political power relationship between each character, and the English threat. There was so many dynamics that I felt didn't reach their true potential. It was definitely a lost opportunity.
Conclusion
I really enjoyed Reign. I fell in love with the historical elements of the show, and the complexity of relationships between characters - especially between Mary and Francis, when their political duties to their own countries came into play in their lives. I'm excited to see the next step this show takes as it continues to develop!
So what did you think of Reign: Season One? Hit or Miss?
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Like many people out there, I loved One Tree Hill growing up. It had everything a successful television show should have - drama, romance and heart. From Lucas's insightful quotes, Brooke's sassy nature and the unstoppable Naley (Nathan and Haley for all you newbies!), One Tree Hill never failed to entertain me. But even after all these years, there is still one story line that I can not understand or even being to comprehend. One storyline that I will never be able to truly accept.
So its time for another monthly challenge from A Year Of Happy! The challenge for March is to create an inspirational mood board using all your favourite colours, images and sayings. Like last month, I decided to take this challenge into my own hands and truly make it my own. I went completely digital. Let me explain exactly what on earth I mean by that.
Robert Quinn - the father to Sophia Quinn and Callie Jacob. If you've been watching The Fosters recently, then you know exactly who I'm talking about. You'll also know about the custody war that has dominated this past season between the Fosters and the Quinns. In all honestly, I'm really disappointed with the way the producers have represented Robert Quinn's storyline in Season Two, and here's why.
Finder Carter is finally back after several months of being of the air, and there's just so much that we need to know! After leaving the show on an incredibly suspenseful cliffhanger, I'm pretty sure we'll be jumping straight back into action. I just can't wait! So without further ado, here are four things that need to happen this season on Finding Carter.
You've just woken up after a long restful sleep, and are getting ready for the day. After wiping away the sleep from your eyes, it's time to get your make-up on. As you reach for your foundation to set your facial masterpiece in place, you notice that your everyday power foundation almost to the end. You find that the foundation is breaking into several little pieces inside the container. What are you going to do?
It's that time of year again. You're surrounded by deadlines and exam preparation, and you so desperately can't wait until it's all over. Then you can truly find your peace of mind. But why wait until it's all over? You need something in between to tie you over between study breaks. Trust me - I know. Even though it's been a year since I was in my final year of university, I remember ever so clearly how stressful it was. There was so much going on, and so much to do. Here are a couple of ways to help relieve the mind, after a long day of working.
After the slightly disappointing squeal, I had high hopes for The Death Cure. Probably due to the fact that The Scorch Trials continued to build up this story to it's climax. The first half of the book blew my mind. I was amazed at where this novel was going and excited. But somewhere along the way, everything seemed to become chaotic. I felt frustrated towards James Dashner - who although creates intriguing plot lines - focuses way too much on shock value. That is why I believe this novel and The Scorch Trials fall short of what they should be. Though entertaining and thrilling, I knew right of the bat that this concept - an awesome premise - was not properly executed. None-the-less, so worth the read.
Note: Spoilers ahead. Avoid if you intend on reading The Death Cure. You've been warned.
I've always found it so amazing how music has the ability to take you back in time to a particular moment in your life - to that very moment - when you truly fell in love with a song. So much can happen in a lifetime, and yet those three minutes of a melody can you transform back into that young child you once were. It's always lovely to hear songs from the past. So - in no particular order - let's take a trip down memory lane, and rediscover the long lost songs of our youth!
Red Band Society is a story about the lives of a group of teenagers living in the paediatric ward at Ocean View Park, struggling with their own issues. Together they form the 'Red Band Society' to stick together through the trouble life throws at them.
When I first heard about this show, I remember feeling reluctant to watch it at all. I felt torn about the way media is - in a way - exploiting stories of children with terminal illness, and almost turning them into a trend of somesort. Since The Fault In Our Stars became so successful, why not capitalise on that by creating something similar. That idea pretty much put me off. But I decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad I did.
Red Band Society is a show with so much heart and emotion. It's like My Sister's Keeper meets One Tree Hill. Each character has their own journey and struggling to face, with family and relationship drama added to the mix. The way this show handles addressing cancer and other diseases is powerful. Although it falls short on truly representing characters and storylines at times - which I'll get into later - this show does a good job of representing the teenagers time at the hospital, and bringing attention the social impact illness can have on them.
Now - Time for spoilers!
After the tragedy we faced in season 2A, The 100 came back biting stronger than ever. This season was definitely much more darker and intense than the previous two, knocking them straight out the park. It's crazy how much this show continues to evolve. Season One was child's play compared to all this drama. There were so many moments that really stood out this season on The 100. Here are a favourite few.
Note: This post contains spoilers, so if you are not currently up-to-date with The 100 - come back later and check it out.
A couple of months ago, J.K. Rowling released a statement saying that Draco Malfoy was not 'concealing a heart of gold under all that sneering and prejudice' despite what fans of the character may believe. She also described Draco to have 'all the dark glamour of the anti-hero,' which may be the reason why fans gravitate towards him. Now while I respect and admire J.K. Rowling, I have to disagree with the way she describes and views the character of Draco, and here's why.
I have to confess before being introduced to the world of fanfiction, I never really thought much of Draco Malfoy. The character depicted as a bully, an antagonist. He was cruel and full of sinister in my eyes. I always thought he'd grow up to the ultimate villain. But then one day, a good friend of mine introduced me to Harry Potter fanfiction. These stories - alongside their authors - captured the untapped potential of Draco Malfoy's character. The limited spotlight on his character in the books - from a rather ambiguous third person narrative - gave room for exploration. Draco was such a complex character with so much depth and unresolved tension. That untapped potential did not go unnoticed by fans. Fanfiction did something that J.K. Rowling did not do. It gave Draco a true shot at redemption. In these stories, Draco kept his dark gritty persona and yet evolved. Rather than 'concealing his heart of gold', he began to grow as an individual forming his own moral consciousness - usually with a little help from Hermione Granger, but that's another story entirely. The journey to retribution itself was interesting watch because it did not come easy. In natural fashion, Draco stumbled along the way between the line of the light and dark, but eventually evolved into a character that sided with moral justice and the light.
In my personal opinion, I believe it was easier for Harry to be good because he was destined to be. Plus his family was killed by Voldemort, so of course he would want revenge - to rid the world of the evil that destroyed his family. As for Hermione Granger - the brains of the golden trio - she was fighting to prove herself amongst and against the pureblood community. She needed to stand up to herself, to fight for her survival and her heritage as a muggleborn. Ron on the other hand grew up in a family full of wizards who saw equality amongst all wizards - regardless of their blood. He grew up with that same mentality as well as it was part of his upbringing. But Draco Malfoy was entirely different from any of these character. His situation was so much more complex. Draco grew up in a family, surrounded by pureblood propaganda supremacy . He was taught that muggles and muggleborns were inferior to him. What made him special and important was his pureblood heritage. That meant everything. He grew up surrounded by all these thoughts - day in, day out. His struggle towards the light would be more dire, more troublesome. But that is what would make the journey so fruitful and intriguing!
Every single character has several dimensions to them. The ability to be good and the ability to be bad. Sure, Draco had a damaging childhood. His entire life had been influenced by principles his parents had taught him. But surely that didn't have to dictate the rest of his life. People can change. Grow. Become more than what they are. J.K. Rowling dismissed the idea that people are complex and not truly one dimensional. Draco was a complex character with so many layers to his soul. There was so much left to be explored. Again this untapped potential did not go unnoticed by fans. Maybe there are some who like the dark villianous character of Draco Malfoy, but I believe the redeemed Draco captured by fanfiction is what drew many fans to come to like the character. That's certainly what happened with me!
So what do you think of Draco Malfoy? I'd love to hear more about what you think on this topic!
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I was so excited to read The Scorch Trials after finishing The Maze Runner. I had such high hopes for this novel, but it sadly didn't live up to my expectations. Don't get me wrong, The Scorch Trials is entertaining, and continues to hold mind blogging mysteries that keep you on your the tips of your toes. The stakes are higher than ever, and the pieces of the puzzle are being to ever so slowly fit together. But The Scorch Trials fails to truly reach its true potential. This novel needed a clear sense of direction throughout, and to expand on certain events and storylines. But instead Dashner drags out the mystery further, and puts all faith into the final book of the series, The Death Cure - which I believe will be much more fruitful.
If you haven't read the book yet - skip this review and come back when you have. Trust me you don't want to know anything at all going into this book. The best part about this series is it's mystery - don't spoil it for yourself! So time to talk spoilers ...
The Oscars are known for their recognition on visual storytelling, and for the fashionable attire. It's what journalists and showbiz enthusiasts look forward to every single year. But how many people have been paying attention to what the speakers at the event were saying? Some of the speeches given this year by the winners were absolutely golden. And yet - I haven't heard or seen anything much about them since. So in honour of those incredible speeches from this year's Oscar winners, here's their moment of glory!
Adapted from the popular novel, The Maze Runner tells the story of Thomas - a boy with no memory of who he is. Thomas finds himself inside a maze with a community of teenage boys living harmoniously together. Everything begins to changes drastically however, when a girl enters the maze for the first time carrying a note that will change everything.
The Maze Runner was literally one of the most perfect novel to film adaptations I've seen in a long while. While being faithful to it's novel counterpart, this movie adds it's own flavour to the story that keeps you gripped to the screen throughout. It was entertaining and engaging from the very beginning. Told in a fast paced narrative that keeps you on your toes. Mirrors the suspense, mystery and confusion of the book. All and all, thrillingly entertaining. So excited to see what's in store in The Scorch Trials.
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HighlightsJust like the book, the mystery of the maze was utterly captivating on screen. This movie is exceptional loyal to it's novel counterpart. Just as in the book - this novel jumps straight into the universe, and is so captivating. The mystery behind Thomas and the Maze is almost too much. While it skips over several details, it stays faithful to its source material. It's jam packed, and entertaining. If you are looking for a mystery and thriller, this is your story. The cast carry this film exceptionally well. While Dylan O'Brien (Thomas) carries this story well as its protagonist, Thomas Brodie-Sangster who plays Newt really stood out the most. With his sense of wisdom and almost friendly charm, Thomas plays the character of Newt exceptionally well!
Something I loved about this movie was how they nailed the ending. It was on point and as jaw-dropping as the book! I don't know about you but I felt so exhilarated just watching it. Such a brilliant lead up to get you excited for The Scorch Trials!
Shortcomings
The Maze Runner relied a lot on it's action, which I found interfered with some of the plot lines and character development. In the film, we never really got to know the boys all that well. I wanted to get more of a sense of Alby and Gally's character. relationship development between characters. I wish we could have seen more of a bond form between Chuck and Thomas. I always imagined Thomas to be like an older brother to Chuck in the novel - and I really didn't get that sense. Their entirely brotherly bond was cut from the screen.
Something that I don't quiet understand is how they'll continue the rest of this series since they've removed a key point in Teresa and Thomas's relationship. How will they manage to continue this series without it? I guess we'll find out pretty soon though - since The Scorch Trials is released in September!
Conclusion
The Maze Runner was an enjoyable adventure, with promise of more action and suspense yet to come. Like it's novel counterpart, it is full of mystery and suspense to keep you on the edge of your toes. An enjoyable movie for all dystopian and young adult fiction lovers.
So what do you think of The Maze Runner? Let me know in the comments below!
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As a creative, I know how difficult it can be to get ideas to start new projects - or even finish existing ones. Sometimes you just need a bit of inspiration to get yourself in the right direction, especially if you find yourself facing a creative block. So weather you are a writer, a blogger, a graphic designer or an artist, here are a few ideas to help you find inspiration.
The Nine Lives of Chloe King tells the story of a young girl Chloe, whose mythological heritage is awakened on her 16th birthday. She is the uniter of the Mai, a species from ancient Eygpt - who are basically super human with cat-like reflexes. Her powers make her a target against human supernatural hunters, who have an ever-long-lasting fued with the Mai.
Though this series started off a little rocky, it was entertaining and fun to watch. Between the action of Mai universe and the family-friendship dynamics in the show, there was always something to keep you entertained. The Nine Lives of Chloe King really had the potential to grow as series. There were so many intriguing story lines to develop, between exploring the mysterious of the Mai, other mythological creatures, and their feud with supernatural bounty hunters. Unfortunately just as the show finally found it's footing, it was cancelled before all those beautiful plot lines could reach their full potential, and come to their final conclusions.
Heads up - if you don't want to get spoiled, skip to the conclusion! I can't contain my feelings for this story!
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Highlights
What I loved about the series the most was the whole mythology between the Mai and humans - not to mention Jackals too! I was amazed how unique the whole concept was - seeing as we have vampire and werewolf story-lines running from left, right and centre these days. Out of all the characters on the show, Skyler Samuels - who played Chloe - stood out to me the most. Her acting felt natural and very quirky. She was a pleasure to watch as the show continued, which makes me so excited to see her performance in The DUFF!
My favourite moment of season one was that amazing cliffhanger! It literally set up future storylines, and gave this sneak peak at where the series could go - like exploring Zane's gurdge against the Mai even though he is Mai himself. Oh and the fact that Alek is his brother - who he might even try to kill! What truly happened to Chloe's father since Brian's grandmother was impersonating him? What was going to happen to Chloe's mother, since Brian's dad has her? If Brian survived - who would he side with? His dad or Chloe? Did his mother die at the hands of his grandma? As you can see so many questions! Oh, it's so sad knowing that they'll never be answered on the big screen.
Shortcomings
The two main flaws that I found with this series were to do with the script and casting. I found Benjamin Stone didn't hold the exact charm and charisma that the character of Alek needed. While charming on the surf, he wasn't really able to pull of that snarky, cocky but endearing attitude. I hate to say it, but he felt pretty wooden. One-dimensional. I wanted more emotion, more feeling from him! As for Brian (played by Grey Damon) - I wish he'd been been given more quality, than just his 'nice' guy role. I actually cared more about Xavier - who was only in the pilot episode - than Brian.
As for the scripting, there were times I found dialogue to be so artificial. I wish the dialogue had felt more natural, something you would hear in everyday conversation rather than scripted. Sometimes in the show dialogue felt pretty out of place, and kind of disconnected me from the story. I wonder if this may be why the series fell a little short in the first place.
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Conclusion
All in all, The Nine Lives of Chloe King was a show with promise, which held intrigue and depth. Despite it's shortcomings, this show had potential to grow into a pretty awesome show, expanding on the Mai universe and it's origins. Unfortunately it was cancelled before everything could come to fruition.
Seen The Nine Lives of Chloe King? What did you think of the series? Let me know!
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As you may remember from my letter to myself last month, I'm participating in October June and Allison Leighann's A Year of Happy Tag, where you're set monthly challenges. And the challenge for this month is to spend £10 in a thrift shop or dollar store, and buy anything that makes you happy.
But since I've been getting into crafting and DIYs as of late, I thought take a trip down to my local Hobbycraft, and pick up a few things to help me create a few projects. It's almost like your chance to take a sneak peak into the DIYs coming your way - very soon might I add! Oh, it's so exciting!
Glue Gun and Glue Sticks, £5 // Foam Felt, £1 // Felt Sheets, £1
Ribbon, £1.40 // Box (part of 6) - £0.60 each
Keep an eye out for future DIYs coming your way! Who else loves going to the craft store?
Big Hero 6 tells the story of Hiro Hamada - a 14 year old robotics genius - who with the help of his friends, attempts to battle an evil villain roaming the streets of San Fransokyo.
If you don't want to be spoiled, I suggest skipping to the end of the post, because I can not contain myself. For reals.
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Highlights
Every single character held their ground in this film, and were just so hilarious. I loved every single one of them! I loved Hiro's childlike essence so full of check, and the fact that he could also be so endearingly vulnerable. Honey Lemon was so quirky and screamed scientific brilliance, breaking all the stereotypes of cheerleader blondes. Go-go was a walking swagger machine owning everything in her path, which was utter awesomeness. Wasabi was the pure embodiment of cool, and Fred was that fanboy always high on life. Oh gosh, can we just talk about Tadashi for a moment. He was literally the heart and soul of everything. So much purity and goodness!
Jesus, I'll confess I cried three times during this film, because of all the emotions caused by Tadashi. I don't think I've ever been that emotional in a cinema hall - nope. I love the way this movie dealt with grief. The way Hiro became so consumed in his grief and loss over Tadashi - who was everything to him. A brother and a mentor. It was just so emotional! And yet this movie was also so full of life and energy. Baymax was more than Hiro's loyal friend - his best friend. He was the perfect reincarnation of Tadashi - that spoke to Hiro in his most urgent time of need. He became the source of good that helped Hiro move on. Man, if I didn't already have enough reasons to love Baymax. Seriously, where can I get a squish-able marshmallow like him?
Shortcomings
My only flaw with this film was that it wasn't longer. I wanted more. More time to divulge into the story, more time to learn about each character's backstory, and get more invested into the story. I wish we saw more of Tadashi's character. I was so not ready to lose him. It was way too soon. In all fairness, with the amount of characters and action going on - the timing of his death could not be helped. One of my friends who saw the film with me actually said to me maybe this story might work better as a series - which would be amazing! In the beginning every episode could be an origin story for each character. They'd be more time to explore more and expand on events. And who knows, it might even be a possibility since this movie is out in the universe now!
Funny enough for a long while, I thought the masked villain was actually Tadashi. That somehow he'd lost his memory, and was employed by an evil genius to carry out his evil plan. That would have been one hell of a plot twist. Even though I'm glad that this movie still had the shock factor for me, I wished this was true! I just selfishly wanted more time with Tadahsi, and this would have been such an interesting storyline. I can imagine Hiro and his friends trying to help Tadashi, who stubbornly refuses. But then as he regains his memory, he risks his life again to save them all and the city, - turning back into the amazing character we all know him to be. I get chills just thinking about it!
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ConclusionBig Hero 6 is a wonderful adventure that'll leave you sobbing, laughing and sat in awe at the edge of your seat. One of the best animated films I've seen in a very long time. Well worth the watch. You won't regret it - at all.
So what are your thoughts on Big Hero 6?
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Happy Valentines Day everybody! If you didn't already know by now, I love holidays. So it'll probably come as no surprise to you that I actually love Valentines Day. I think it's nice to have a reason to be happy, and a day out of our regular routines dedicated to love - and that kind of love doesn't to at all be romantic either! So to celebrate this special day, I thought I'd put together a mix tape for all of you lovely people. How 90s of me, right? I hope whatever you get up to, today is filled with happiness, love and most of all appreciation for the people you love, and who love you!
I hope you have a wonderful day! So what are you up to this Valentines Day?
So it's that time of year again, where love is in the air. Now, let's face the facts. Most of the movies you've probably ended up watching on Valentines Day probably consist of The Notebook, Titanic or Love Actually. The most typical and most overplayed movies ever in the history of romance. So this year, why not venture out and see what the rest of cinema has to offer. What have you got to lose?
Still struggling to find gift ideas in time for Valentines Day? Don't worry about it. I got you covered - all curtsy of the wonderfully talented creatives on YouTube! It's always giving presents to the people you love. Valentines Day doesn't have to just be about that special someone. It can just be about the people you love having in your life, from your friends to your parents - even your cat if you have one! So for all of you still searching for some last minute gift ideas, here's a few ideas to help you get started.
Growing up, my parents loved to watch Indian dramas. I remember sitting down on a Friday night, watching these dramatic soaps about characters who lived in an entirely different world than I did. It also became like a tradition in our household. I'll admit they were pretty entertaining for a while - when I had no idea how utterly predictable and ridiculous they actually were! Since moving back home with my parents, I have been subjected to the world of Asian dramas again. It has literally been unavoidable. Lucky I have learnt sooo many valuable life lessons from these shows, that I decided to share them with you all today! So without further ado, let's get started!
Into The Woods - © Disney Enterprises |
This wonderful musical indulges and defies the cliches of all the classic fairy-tales we know and love. Every story is enchanting, and every single character helps to make this movie spectacularly amazing! With songs at every turn, Into The Woods seamlessly leaves you breathless and entranced throughout with clever twists throughout. If you have not seen it yet, I urge you to go and see it, because it is so awesome, ever so entertaining and utterly captivating! Into The Woods by far is one of my favourite films of 2015 so far. Now time to talk spoilers ....
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Highlights
I don't think I can put truly in words how much I loved and adsorbed this movie. Everything about Into The Woods was so visually stunning. The cinematography was so on point - supporting the brisk fast paced nature of film, helping to aid the storyline along and capture every movement and moment of the movie, putting spotlight on each character when their turn came. The acting in this film was superb! Every single cast member executed the role they had to play brilliant, which helped to shape and define the universe of Into The Woods. Lilla Crawford who played Little Red Riding Hood was absolutely spectacular! She carried herself with such grace and childlike innocence, it was such a pleasure to watch. Anna Kendrick nailed her vocal performances, which blew me away - period. The biggest surprise of all though for me was James Corden, who carried the weight of this film as the most wonderful narrator. Who even knew he could sing! I was just amazed by the amount of talent in this film truly.
My favourite defining moments of Into The Woods was that ultimate twist, which stole my breath away! The giant earthquake was almost like the ripple that broke the picture perfect fairy-tale everyone was living in. It broke all conventions, taking a very different direction from the norm. It was almost like two movies in one. The happy ever after ... then the grim reality. Just so awesome.
I was a little sad to see that Rapunzel and her prince had truly little time to really shine on screen. I wish they had included more for them. I wished that we could see Rapunzel finally reunite with her brother.
My only other flaw with this musical is the way the witch's death was portrayed when she sings the Last Midnight. I couldn't quiet decipher what she was saying exactly in hysterics, and neither could my friend beside me. Then she started throwing around beans - which I assumed was punishment for the other characters for not turning Jack in to the lady giant - and then the witch transforms into tar. Seriously, what was that?! It was only until I goggled the lyrics when I got home, realising what she was saying. In that moment I believe the music drowned out Meryl Streep's voice - making it an audio issue. But with all considered, it's such a small detail.
Conclusion ...My only other flaw with this musical is the way the witch's death was portrayed when she sings the Last Midnight. I couldn't quiet decipher what she was saying exactly in hysterics, and neither could my friend beside me. Then she started throwing around beans - which I assumed was punishment for the other characters for not turning Jack in to the lady giant - and then the witch transforms into tar. Seriously, what was that?! It was only until I goggled the lyrics when I got home, realising what she was saying. In that moment I believe the music drowned out Meryl Streep's voice - making it an audio issue. But with all considered, it's such a small detail.
Into The Woods was such a spectacular story that every fairy-tale fan can appreciate. While telling its own unique spin, it entertains thoroughly and captivates you from the very beginning. Well worth the watch. You'll be replaying its soundtrack long after the credits end!
So what did you think of Into the Woods? Did it meet your expectations?
Set in 1986, Eleanor and Park tells the story of two misfit teenagers, who find themselves falling in love with mix tapes, comic books and each other. As you may remember, I listed Eleanor and Park as one of my TBR books in Autumn - literally forever ago. I finally got round to finishing it after all this time. Yay me - getting through my TBR pile!
In this novel, Rainbow Rowell truly captures the essence of what it's like to be a teenager, awkwardly fumbling through life and its struggles. One of the things I liked about this book is that it isn't a polished version of reality. It discusses the hardships that both Eleanor and Park face in their everyday lives - without sugar-coating it. It's a story about personal struggles and what its like to fall in love for the first time, that readers of all ages can appreciate. Don't be fooled by it's synopsis either, this novel is not just about romance. That is literally just the surface of this book. I did have one main issue with this book - which I'll discuss down below in the spoilers ...
In this novel, Rainbow Rowell truly captures the essence of what it's like to be a teenager, awkwardly fumbling through life and its struggles. One of the things I liked about this book is that it isn't a polished version of reality. It discusses the hardships that both Eleanor and Park face in their everyday lives - without sugar-coating it. It's a story about personal struggles and what its like to fall in love for the first time, that readers of all ages can appreciate. Don't be fooled by it's synopsis either, this novel is not just about romance. That is literally just the surface of this book. I did have one main issue with this book - which I'll discuss down below in the spoilers ...
As a teenager whenever I went shopping, I would always pick out items that caught my eye - weather it would be an adorable dress, a graphic tee or a pair of faded jeans. My shopping habits were always so spontaneous. I never really took the time to build up the essential items of my wardrobe. So as I was flicking through my closet the other day - filled with patterned and stylised clothes - I realised how very little simplistic pieces I had. Clothes that I could pair up with almost anything and everything. I decided I was in much need need of a shopping trip - going back to basics. After all every girl needs their essentials, don't they?
Stretch-Knit Tank, Forever 21, £3.00 / Classic V-Neck Tee, Forever 21, £3.00 / Navy Utility Shirt, New Look £12.99
Grey Basic Crew Neck Cardigan, New Look, £9.99 / Jersey Leggings, H&M, £5.99
Basic Brown Pumps, New Look, £7.99 / Satchel, Primark, £8.00
So tell me, what are your fashion essentials or must haves?
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