Author name: Bella Mars

USA Soldiers American Flag

Members of Congress Still Get Their $174,000 Salary During a Government Shutdown. Others Will Have to Work Without Pay. But Wait, There’s More.

As of September 29, 2:00 pm Central Time, the government shutdown is actually possible. Politicians, experts, strategists, and professors are among those who have been providing different examples of what the shutdown will look like. From unpaid TSA personnel to 19,000 unpaid border agents, this government shutdown isn’t as irrelevant as people may think. Below is a partial list of how we the people will be affected (with sources) by reporting the plans that might be implemented.

Cybersecurity and Physical Security Support to the Nation’s Critical Infrastructure: CISA would also be forced to suspend both physical and cybersecurity assessments for government and industry partners. Perhaps more cyberattacks are in the works now that this deadline is looming and the government shutdown has worldwide coverage.

Disruptions to Air Transportation from Multiple Sides: If you have flights to catch, get ready for some “significant delays” if the government shutdown happens. On average, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screens 2.5 million passengers every day. There is already a pilot and air traffic controller shortage so if the government shuts down there will be fewer people to work these positions. If they are given the opportunity to continue working they would be required to continue working, but without pay.

“CBP agents and officers working at over 300 ports of entry and protecting more than 6,000 miles of border under challenging circumstances would be required to continue performing their vital missions without pay.” This includes issues like securing borders, seizing fentanyl, combating child exploitation, and arresting human traffickers.

government shutdown
U.S. Border Patrol

About 1.3 Million Active-Duty Service Members Will Serve Without Pay: With the government shutdown, all military personnel will continue in a normal duty status regardless of their affiliation with excepted or non-excepted activities until such time as Congress makes appropriated funds available to compensate them for this period of service.

Hardship for Nearly 40,000 Active Military Personnel: The U.S. Coast Guard may not even be paid for their unpaid work unless a specific appropriation is passed. They are also unique in that they are not allowed to apply for unemployment benefits either. This is not the case for the other military branches. Additionally, unlike civilian employees, they are not able to file for interim support such as unemployment benefits to supplement their income until an appropriation is passed.

government shutdown
U.S. Coastguard

Small Business Administration (SBA) to stop processing new business loans for small businesses:

Each weekday the government is shut down, and small business loan applications will be halted, which may cause small business owners to turn to high-interest, price-gouging non-government loans.

Pro-Life? Not After Birth: The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) nutrition program serves about 50% of babies born in this country and is at risk. Head Start, which supports education for 3- and 4-year-olds across the country, and women and children who count on WIC would soon start being turned away at grocery store counters, with a federal contingency fund drying up after just a few days and many states left with limited WIC funds to operate the program.

Senior citizens may have a hard time getting food too: Meals on Wheels, which brings food to elderly people many of whom can’t drive or go to the store on their own, could also get interrupted.

Newborn baby

What is the hold up? The Republicans are demanding that their specific budget cut proposal pass. Members of Congress indicate that this 8% budget cut proposed will result in:

  • 800 fewer Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents and officers
  • 50,000 pounds of cocaine, more than 300 pounds of fentanyl, more than 700 pounds of heroin, and more than 6,000 pounds of methamphetamine let into our country due to cuts to CBP
  • 110,000 children would lose access to Head Start slots
  • 65,000 children would lose access to childcare
  • 60,000 seniors would be robbed of nutrition services like Meals on Wheels
  • 2.1 million women, infants, and children would be waitlisted for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
  • Up to 40,000 fewer teachers, aides, or other key staff across the country, affecting 26 million students in schools that teach low-income students and 7.5 million students with disabilities
  • Nearly 70 fewer Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) agents, who are often some of the first federal law enforcement on the scene of a mass shooting to help local law enforcement identify at-large shooters—and 13 furlough days for ATF’s entire workforce
  • 4,000 fewer rail safety inspection days next year alone, with nearly 11,000 fewer miles of track inspected annually—enough track to cross the United States more than 3 times
  • 145 fewer members of local law enforcement due to cuts at the Department of Justice
  • Nearly 300,000 households—including 20,000 veterans and 90,000 seniors—would lose housing choice vouchers, putting them at greater risk of homelessness
  • A roughly $500 reduction to the maximum Pell Grant for 6.6 million students
  • 4,000 fewer FBI personnel, including agents who investigate crimes
  • 250,000 American workers would be denied job training and employment services—resulting in 35,000 fewer workers gaining the opportunity of a Registered Apprenticeship
  • 50,000 workers would lose an average of $1,000 in back wages they are owed
  • People applying for disability benefits would have to wait months longer
USA
© Vincent Giordano | Dreamstime.com

A government shutdown should not be a bargaining chip. The congress members still get paid a pretty nice $174,000 salary so they don’t necessarily feel the impact. Maybe it is time to include Congress in one of these categories where if the government shuts down they also have to work for free. Otherwise, there is no urgency to get things done on time, and these elected officials end up harming their constituents and their livelihoods.

Hopefully this article will be irrelevant soon! Congress – do your best.

Political

Political Terms Defined: Fascist, Socialist, Communist, and Democracy

As political turmoil ensues, name-calling is getting increasingly…convoluted. The definitions of words like “fascist” or “socialist” are thrown around quite a bit, but in many cases, the true meaning of the term is misunderstood or misinterpreted.

These words are the go-to insults to hurl at the other side, regardless of whether they are being used correctly. So what do all these terms actually mean? Here are some examples of the recent rhetoric and topics of discussion that need some clarity.

Words, phrases, and theories that can help in any political conversation

Democracy – Not to be completely associated with “Democrats”. Whether you identify as a Democrat or Republican, the US form of government is commonly called a Democracy in which the leaders are chosen by the people.

Merriam-Webster defines democracy as a. a government by the people especiallyrule of the majority, or b. a government in which the supreme power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through a system of representation usually involving periodically held free elections.

Between the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution, citizens are given freedoms that cannot be infringed upon. Lately, one of the most referenced amendments is Freedom of Speech.

Freedom of speech
periodicpresidents.com

This amendment is often misinterpreted as being allowed to say anything to anyone without any trouble or legal implications. However, this is not entirely true.

The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh states some of the limitations of the First Amendment:

The First Amendment only protects your speech from government censorship. It applies to federal, state, and local government actors. This is a broad category that includes not only lawmakers and elected officials, but also public schools and universities, courts, and police officers.  It does not include private citizens, businesses, and organizations.

Here are some examples of Permissible restrictions on expression”

Private companies can’t be forced to publish or broadcast opinions they don’t agree with.

Private businesses can fire someone for expressing political views

Telling a group of people to go commit violence, making threats, knowingly spreading lies, obscenity, defamation – will likely have consequences that could result in lawsuits of millions of dollars.

Here is a short summary of Democracy vs Fascism before diving into Socialism:

Fascism vs Democracy – What’s The Difference? – Political Comparison – The Infographics Show

Fascism vs Socialism (Fascists and Socialists)

Fascism – A single individual is in control of everything, including the conduct of the people, society, and industries in the country. Private ownership is restrictive, and there is no freedom of speech for anyone. Fascism aims to strengthen the nation in prosperity rather than the people of the nation.

Socialism – Public welfare is the priority of Socialism, with the eradication of poverty as the driver of this form of government. The Powers are owned by the people and control is decentralized and distributed among the states. There is a strong focus on balancing the social classes.

Comparing Fascism and Socialism

WallStreetMojo summarises the differences between Fascism and Socialism in a few charts below.

Fascism Socialism
wallstreetmojo.com

Fascism vs. Socialism – A Comparison Infographic

What about Communism?

Now that socialism and fascism have been compared, let’s throw communism into the mix for comparison as well.

Communism definition
Investopedia

Communism vs. Fascism – A Comparison Infographic

The more you know

There are surely plenty more forms of government across the world that were not covered here, but at least for now, Fascism, Communism, and Socialism appear to be the insults most often used in a verbal argument regarding the “left” and the “right”. At least now you can be sure you are using the right term to describe the type of political affiliation just in case you may actually be complementing them instead of trying to intentionally hurt them. So instead, be nice out there and all just get along.

1694664930058 e31c0d9014349262dc1745f387994235 32: Bella and Melissa Build a Hinge Profile

32: Bella and Melissa Build a Hinge Profile

Bella and Melissa sign up for Hinge and build a profile based on Bella’s pics. We answer some of the written prompts and have fun with the voice prompts as well.

Check out the next episode where they see if anyone is attracted to this version of Bella!

A Cross The Streams Media Production

https://www.crossthestreamsmedia.com/show/big-time-fresh/

Check out the BigTimeFresh blog: https://bigtimefresh.com/

Listen on the website: https://bigtimefresh.com/podcast/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0Wgc34igOdwwV2E30LzegQ?si=96e72ebaca094878

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/big-time-fresh/id1642191870

Google: https://podcastsmanager.google.com/show?hl=en&show=show:erFCdEIhCyXorA9IVfknLg

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/84aae628-ce61-4642-b717-d1ad8b5db80e/big-time-fresh

iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/99874299/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigtimefresh

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BigTimeFresh/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigtimefresh/

Website: https://www.bigtimefresh.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bellaamars


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Writers Guild Strike Hollywood 2023

Without the Writers, There Would Be No Hollywood

Creating entertainment in Hollywood was much simpler before streaming. The writers wrote, the actors acted, the show would air, and everyone would get paid for their part in the project along with residuals if the show was picked up for syndication or re-runs. This was the structure that everyone involved in creating the show could rely on to earn income after the series had come to an end.

Now that the Writer’s Guild of America (WGA) has joined forces with SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists), it is not just the writers and actors feeling the pain. The shutdown has a ripple effect that reaches all the workers behind the scenes as well. Lighting, sound engineers, set design, catering, makeup artists, and a ton of other occupations that are crucial to the process may also be out of a job.

NBC TV Show Friends
ID 176589996 © Info849943 | Dreamstime.com

At the heart of the strike are two major demands – fair pay and regulations for AI technology that will soon come for all industries everywhere. While there are not many examples of just how far AI could impact Hollywood, the possibilities are endless. AI could end up being the “writers” for movies and shows. Using this technology wouldn’t create anything new, it would take bits and pieces of what exists out there on the internet and make a script.

It is possible that AI could also take the likeness of actors and actresses to where they may be seen in the movie but not actually be acting in the movie. There may not be a need to hire extras if AI can create them. If there were no sets, no actors, no writers, or no crew, everything would be generated, not created.

SAG AFTRA Hollywood Movie and Writers Strike 2023
SAG AFTRA Hollywood Movie and Writers Strike 2023

Meanwhile, the top Hollywood executives made hundreds of millions of dollars over the past 5 years.

The top Hollywood exec made $498 million in the last 5 years

Making movies and shows in Hollywood sounds like a very prestigious and lucrative career if you associate the industry with the top 1% of actors making millions of dollars per movie or per episode. But the writers are the heart of Hollywood. The stories are made into scripts by the writers. To get a project off the ground, the script must make the rounds to the production studios, and the actors must connect with the script and the story to want to bring it to life. The directors need to believe that the story can be brought to life. The audience needs to have that emotional investment in the storyline, characters, and progression from beginning to end.

Hollywood move TV set
ID 111716913 © Ppengcreative | Dreamstime.com

Do the right thing

The giant Hollywood studios do have a plan – wait until the writers run out of money. “The endgame is to allow things to drag on until union members start losing their apartments and losing their houses,” a studio executive told Deadline. Another with inside information about the tactic called it “a cruel but necessary evil.” – Distractify

Without the writers, no story would be told, no characters would be created, and popular culture would barely exist as it is today. Actors wouldn’t have any projects they would want to be a part of. The studios continue to make a lot of money, but without the writers, they wouldn’t have anything to make money from.  

Hollywood Movies and TV Writers on strike
Writers Guild on Strike 2023

For more information about the Writers Guild of America, where to picket, and how to help, click the image below or this link here.

Writers Guild Reports - The State of the Industry Hollywood
Writers Guild Reports – The State of the Industry

Read The State of the Industry WGA Report.

cropped BTF 512Artboard 1 31: Seven Deadly Sins: ENVY

31: Seven Deadly Sins: ENVY

Is it ENVY or GREED? These two deadly sins have a lot in common. Roberta schools Bella and JP on ENVY and how we may be guilty of committing this sin more often than we think…

See the video version on the Big Time Fresh YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/EggynTrZrJs

A Cross The Streams Media Production

https://www.crossthestreamsmedia.com/show/big-time-fresh/


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ocean's 13

The Movie Gap Podcast Presents: Ocean’s 13

You know those people who don’t watch movies so you have to explain the entire thing to have a conversation? Welcome to the Movie Gap podcast, where hosts Chase and Bryce discuss a classic movie that Bryce has just seen for the first time. This week, that move is Ocean’s 13.

Each week, Chase and Bryce invite a guest to participate in the conversation where they break down a movie and discuss the nuances of the film while making top-notch jokes. After the discussion, they recast the movie with other actors that would be also a good fit for the part. It’s safe to say that they have tons of episodes about the best movies ever made.

Ocean’s 13

The Movie Gap podcast has been dropping weekly episodes since 2018 so finding a classic movie that Bryce hasn’t seen yet is a tough task. But when Bella Mars came to be on the podcast she opened the door to the Ocean’s movies. In Bella’s first guest appearance on The Move Gap, she kicked off the Ocean’s trilogy discussions with Ocean’s 11. The trio has been reunited for this episode to discuss another movie from the Ocean’s trilogy skipping Ocean’s 12 and going straight to Ocean’s 13.

Ocean’s 13 is one of those standalone movies where it is best to position the movie as a “take it as it is” flick to immerse yourself in and just go with it. Needless to say, some tasks are completely illogical that the 13 members must complete flawlessly which is unrealistic for anyone no matter how experienced they may be.

“You shook Sinatra’s hand. You should know better.” – GEORGE CLOONEY – Danny Ocean

The Ocean’s movies tend to be a love-it-or-hate-it franchise, so there was no telling of what Bryce would think of this one. You can check out the full episode and listen for yourself, and see whose point of view you agree with the most.

Check out the episode below (Click on the Image):

Movie Gap Podcast
You Shook Sinatra Hand: Ocean’s 13

Check out the theme song featuring the guys of Movie Gap here:

The Movie Gap Official Theme Song

Follow The Movie Gap on their socials through the link below!

https://www.crossthestreamsmedia.com/show/the-movie-gap/

Big Time Rush

Big Time Rush Brings “Another Life” On The “Can’t Get Enough” Tour

Not even the hot summer heat could keep Big Time Rush fans away from the Houston tour stop to see Kendall, Logan, James, and Carlos live in concert for their “Can’t Get Enough” tour. After the solid success of last year’s “Forever Tour”, the uphill battle of a transition from Nickelodeon TV show stars to successful independent touring singer/songwriters is working. And perhaps most notably, the fans were the ones who proved that Big Time Rush was ready to embark on their second headlining tour.

New Tour, New Album

After nearly 10 years, 2022 was the first full year of all things Big Time Rush as they tested the appetite of the fans and their reception of the singles that were released and performed during the “Forever Tour” including “Call it Like I See It”, “Not Giving You Up”, “Fall”, “Honey”, and “Dale Pa Ya”. I was really looking forward to hearing those songs, but I’ll settle for the memories from the “Forever Tour” and the music videos.

Big Time Rush Can't Get Enough Tour Setlist
setlist.fm

This year’s tour promoted the new album, “Another Life” released on June 2, 2023. Six songs from the new album were performed, including “Can’t Get Enough” and “Waves” – two tracks from the album that have music videos out now.

Big Time Rush – Waves (Official Music Video)

Many of the other songs from “Another Life” (including “Party all the Time”) were scattered throughout the set list, but the rest of the concert pulled from the back catalog of the Big Time Rush classics.

The Big Time Rush fans have their own name

Just like the Taylor Swift fans (Swifties), and Beyonce fans (the Beyhive) Big Time Rush fans have their own name: Rushers. When was the last time there was a concert appealing to new fans under 15, Gen Z fans who are now in their 20s who grew up watching the show, and Millennials with kids who are discovering the TV show for the first time? The older songs were received with warm and nostalgic enthusiasm from the crowd of over 15,000 fans who could be seen singing along with the songs.

Taylor Swift and Beyonce
(Kevin Winter/Getty; Parkwood Entertainment/Netflix/AP; iStock; Lily illustration)

Big Time Rush Behind-the-Scenes Content

But what Big Time Rush brings that many other artists don’t is their focus on keeping behind-the-scenes content updated. On their YouTube channel, you can see just how committed they are to consistently releasing unique content inspired by the fans. Carlos has been doing a vlog with his family called “La Vida PenaVega” for years before Big Time Rush reunited a few years ago, and he continues to chronicle his personal journey with his family on tour along for the ride.

Episode 1- The boys embark on The Forever Tour

Although the Nickelodeon show is arguably their legacy, Kendall, James, Logan, and Carlos are proving that they are moving on with “Another Life” with the support of their forever Rushers that will follow and support their new journey while keeping their childhood memories of their show alive in their hearts forever.

Big Time Rush Cant Get Enough Tour Big Time Rush Brings "Another Life" On The "Can't Get Enough" Tour

Check out all their socials, music, and YouTube content below:

Stream/download: https://bigtimerush.lnk.to/AnotherLifeID

Subscribe to the Big Time Rush YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/bigtimerush

Follow Big Time Rush: Instagram: http://instagram.com/bigtimerush

TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@bigtimerush

Facebook: http://facebook.com/bigtimerush

Twitter: http://twitter.com/bigtimerush

Website: http://bigtimerushofficial.com

Spotify: http://bigtimerushofficial.com/spotify

cropped BTF 512Artboard 1 30: Tinder Talk w/Bella & Melissa: Political and Gross Bios

30: Tinder Talk w/Bella & Melissa: Political and Gross Bios

Bella and Melissa are back! They are taking their talents back to the streets and mining for the craziest bios out there from politics to crazy disgusting. A few bios made a good impression, so they dissect what makes the profile format and flow of information rise to the top.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Threads Twitter

Threads Has Potential, Just Don’t Feed the Trolls

Over the past decade, Twitter has become increasingly toxic. Like very toxic. No one can say anything without some troll ruining the moment, which sometimes negatively affects the mental health of the replies on a non-confrontational tweet. These actions are unnecessary and hurtful, made for no reason except to cause stress and fear. Today we have three major players: Twitter, Truth, and Threads.

Today, that seems to be the entire purpose of Twitter. A completely non-political tweet turns somehow turns political and aggressive in the comments, giving trolls a sense of power to bully others when there are no consequences. To put the toxicity in perspective, there are websites and articles out there that focus on how to deal with Twitter Trolls. Twitter did not start off this way at all. It was pretty much the only player in this form of social media – the type where you put your thoughts out there and respond to posts with text. It started with the unofficial rules we grew up with: Treat others how you would want to be treated, and if you don’t have anything nice to say then don’t say it at all.

Elon Musk’s Frustrating Twitter Changes

When Elon Musk bought the company for $44 Billion, it was the nail in the coffin for many of the tweeters who have been just dealing with it because although toxic, Twitter still had attributes that users find worthwhile. The platform was working just fine before the Musk takeover as he promised a priority of free speech for one and all. The decisions that were to follow, like making blue verification checkmarks pay-to-play (also for Meta), journalists were banned for no reason, and most recently, Twitter limits the number of tweets that one can READ daily.

Musk tweet Threads Has Potential, Just Don't Feed the Trolls

The initial change regarding limits to just reading was implemented on July 1:

“Users cannot view tweets without logging in to the platform. Verified accounts can now read 6,000 posts per day, unverified accounts 600 posts and new un-verified accounts 300 posts. After that, users will get a message that says, ‘rate limit exceeded”‘”

Musk has said that limit will “soon” increase to 10,000 for verified, 1,000 for unverified and 500 for new unverified.

Thread’s Daily Active Users Decline

The timing couldn’t have been more perfect for Meta to launch Threads, so much so that the app was released a day early. Those who use Instagram regularly were the first to sign up, and based on the current number of followers I have on Threads, it appears about 10% of my followers have signed up.

“Threads saw daily active users decline from 49 million on July 7th to 23.6 million on July 14th, SimilarWeb writes in a new report.” 

Threads Twitter Zuckerberg
Updates from Mark Zuckerberg

Yes, the daily active users have declined. Yes, there are limits that are going to be involved with the early versions of Threads. But that’s how it usually goes. Threads isn’t the most user-friendly platform. Twitter’s existence has been part of the social media ecosystem for over a decade and it will take a longer time for users to decide if Threads is worth switching over to full-time.

Threads has limited features, but users understand that this is a typical part of creating an app of this magnitude. These missing features and glitches that came with the initial launch were noticeable, but the community of the early adopters to this day has been exuding, promoting, and showing the love for a toxic-free experience. So far, the comments have been respectful or have been expressed as individual posts instead of disagreeing with hate and ganging up on one person who has an opposing opinion.

Threads 3 Threads Has Potential, Just Don't Feed the Trolls
@subdoctamusic on Threads

Of course, it is easy to be selective and find the evidence that backs the claim or the point being made. But this sentiment is felt by many on the platform, and so far, there seems to be a community effort to keep it this way.

Twitter’s Negativity and Spam

My experience today on Twitter was exactly what I was used to. Trolls commenting on posts intend to make other tweeters feel attacked and bullied. For example, this initial post had nothing to do with politics. It was about the Women’s World Cup ramping up and innocent questions about predictions on what country may win. No transgender narratives. Nothing political. But here is the tweet and comments that were added to the post.

CNN Sports Threads Has Potential, Just Don't Feed the Trolls
Tweet negative Threads Has Potential, Just Don't Feed the Trolls

Hoping for the Best, But Only Time Will Tell

With Twitter’s restrictions on July 1 and Threads’ launch on July 5th, it is incredibly early to make any legitimate predictions on what the future holds. For now, Threads has proven that the app really is updating and fixing issues in real-time, touting an impressive 0.02% crash fixes. The ease of switching between Instagram and Threads so smoothly is a definite plus. There are features that are still coming, but as long as love and positivity remain a priority on the platform, I’m done with Twitter.

New Thread Updates 7.18 Threads Has Potential, Just Don't Feed the Trolls
These Threads updates were published on July 18th, already adding value to the platform.

This is a developing story.

28: The Tinder Bio Match Game

This episode was made for video for a visual component, but the commentary is all here! Bella and Melissa play “match that bio to the Tinder profile”. Don’t worry, we left faces and names out and chose different cities across the US. Then we go through the app store and found some 18+ apps that were quite eye opening. Profiles include: bragging about eggplants, submission holds, asian pen pals, failed comedy, cats and a “proud creator of 6 single moms”.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

DC Comics Batman The Flash

Spoiler Alert: Comparing “The Flash” to “Spider-Man: No Way Home”

It’s summertime, which means it’s time for the movie studios to release their most expensive and hyped movies of the year. “The Flash” was one of those highly anticipated comic book movies from the DC universe. Ezra Miller was cast as The Flash all the way back in 2014, the movie was greenlit in October 2015, and the original release date was March 23, 2018. After a steady stream of setbacks due to script changes, creative differences, COVID, and some PR disasters to clean up from Ezra’s streak of off-screen incidents, the final movie release date was pushed all the way to June 2023. Typically promotion for a giant movie like “The Flash” would be a massive part of the process to get people hyped to see it, but they had to move forward with a toned-down press tour that kept Ezra away from the public eye as much as possible. This likely impacted the success of the opening weekend even though the promotion budget for the film was speculated to be about $65 million.

I am starting to venture into the DC universe now that James Gunn will be in the driver’s seat starting in 2025, which is a blessing for the mess of movies and bad casting up that DC has gone through. Although he didn’t have much to do with “The Flash”, this movie was seen as the reset to a better future for DC. I had the benefit of not knowing anything about “The Flash” or the actor who played him (more on that later), and the only thing I knew was that there were going to be a few Batman cameos.  The observations here will probably be obvious to those of you who are familiar with The Flash, so feel free to correct me if I’m wrong.

I couldn’t help but compare this movie to Marvel franchises, so this article will be comparing “The Flash” from the DC Cinematic Universe with “Spiderman: No Way Home” from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

The Young Superhero Complex

The movie did a good job introducing The Flash (also known as Barry Allen) and the dynamics of his existence within the first 5-10 minutes of the film. Not bad considering the movie run time is 2 hours and 24 minutes. The movie opens in a familiar superhero fashion, with an action-packed rescue scene that usually would be too big of a task for rookie superheroes. The movie starts in Gotham City, where Batman still reigns supreme and The Flash is the kid who has something to prove.

“The Flash” vs. “Spiderman: No Way Home” storylines

If you zoom all the way out, “The Flash” has some notable similarities to “Spiderman: No Way Home”. Both live in a world where superheroes are part of life, and they have fans that either love or hate them. The Flash and Spider-Man (also known as Peter Parker) were warned of the dangers of the multiverse if they pursue their respective missions but they decided to do it anyway.

The Flash travels to the past

The Flash (Barry) is still a little clumsy with his powers, so Batman is still the one to count on to save the day in this Gotham City. Still traumatized by the death of his mother and the wrongful incarceration of his father, Barry wanted to turn back time to save them both. The wiser Batman warned against the mission, but Barry did it anyway.

The Flash DC Movie Batman
Warner Bros. Pictures and DC Comics.

Spider-Man brings the past to the present day

Spider-Man’s mentor-type figure in “Spider-Man: No Way Home” is fellow Avenger, Dr. Strange. His best friends were not accepted into college due to their affiliation with Spider-Man, so Peter felt that the only way to fix the situation was to go to Dr. Strange for a memory-erasing spell. The spell did not go as planned, and instead of traveling back in time, Spider-Man opened a portal to the multiverse, where the timelines ran parallel.

The OG Michael Keaton Batman had his OG gear, and it was awesome

The Michael Keaton Batman brought back the classic yellow and black insignia on his armor and dusted off the old Batmobile to fight alongside The Flash on his mission. The classic theme song from the early “Batman” movies was weaved into the scenes at particular moments that felt organic and nostalgic.

Batman The Flash
Warner Bros. Pictures and DC Comics

The cameos

Some of the former Batmen from earlier films make cameos in “The Flash” that longtime DC fans were excited for. While Batman’s part in “The Flash” movie was emphasized in the trailers and promo for the movie, “Spider-Man: No Way Home” took a different approach to bring back former Spider-Men. Although speculation and leaks were hinting that cameos might be in order, it was the where, when, and how the Spider-Men teamed up that took audiences by surprise.

spider man no way home maguire garfield holland Spoiler Alert: Comparing "The Flash" to "Spider-Man: No Way Home"
Marvel Comics and Sony Pictures

Final thoughts

For one of the first DC movies that I’ve taken an active interest in with higher expectations, “The Flash” did meet those expectations for me and I think Ezra Miller did a great job. I waited a week to start digging into Ezra Miller’s past because unfortunately, it did negatively affect my perspective on the actor. I’m not sure if I could watch another movie of his without thinking about the chaotic life of alleged assault, burglary, and odd behavior. I wish him well and hope he learns from his mistakes and works on his mental health so he can come back to the iconic character in the DC franchise.

I give “The Flash” an overall rating of B. With all the other twists and turns throughout the movie, it was fun to watch even with limited knowledge of the DC universe.

Here are the full trailers for “The Flash” and “Spider-Man: No Way Home”, and let me know if you agree with the comparisons!

Check out my review of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

BTF 512Artboard 1 CLIP: F/Marry/Vote - Presidential Edition

CLIP: F/Marry/Vote – Presidential Edition

Here’s a little clip from the upcoming video episode!

You know the game. But we switched it up to avoid a visit from the FBI and used “vote” as the third option. We had a few scenarios to discuss, but the “tangent of the day” was Obama which took us down the rabbit hole to react to some SNL and Boyz II Men music videos.

Audio podcast is up now on all the platforms.

show cover 26: F/Marry/Vote: Presidential Edition

26: F/Marry/Vote: Presidential Edition

F, Marry or Vote: Obama, Trump, and Biden.

You know the game. But we switched it up to avoid a visit from the FBI and used “vote” as the third option. We had a few scenarios to discuss, but the “tangent of the day” was Obama which took us down the rabbit hole to react to some SNL and Boyz II Men music videos.

Video Episode coming soon!


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Big Time Rush

Big Time Rush Brings Eddie Murphy’s 1985 Hit “Party All the Time” To Their New Album, “Another Life”

Boy Band Big Time Rush just dropped a ten-track album called Another Life, featuring all new songs as the Big Time Rush TV show era of the band is starting to fade further away in their rearview mirror. With updated styles in their current-day music, Big Time Rush brought a throwback jam that Gen X and Elder Millennials should remember. The band is paying homage to the 1985 song “Party All the Time” performed by one of the biggest actors and legendary comedians in Hollywood, Eddie Murphy. The song is completely different from the original, but the infamous hook “I just want to party all the time” remains intact.

Music Big Time Rush
Eddie Murphy – “Party All the Time”, Cover

I Just Want To (Party All the Time)” by Big Time Rush is a mix of familiar sounds with new lyrics and has the same BPM (135 beats per minute) as Eddie Murphy’s “Party All the Time”, so the two have the same pacing. The themes of the songs are almost completely opposite. Big Time Rush’s version is about the band members partying all the time. Eddie Murphy’s version is about a girl who is breaking his heart because all she wants to do is party all the time while he showers her with roses and diamonds. Big Time Rush adds a little 80s flare with a saxophone solo embedded in their song. The first verse (starting around 15 seconds on “I Just Want To (Party All the Time)” has a recognizable style of a simple bassline and drum cadence like in this part of “Circles” by Post Malone (starting around 20 seconds).

2023 vs. 1985

Eddie Murphy Richard Pryor
AP IMAGES/INVISION

It might come as a surprise to the younger generations that Eddie Murphy dabbled in music. When “Party All the Time” was released in 1985, Eddie was at the peak of his fame and popularity in Hollywood with his stand-up specials, Saturday Night Live appearances, his Grammy win for Best Comedy Album in 1984 and a successful season of Beverly Hills Cop. Toying with the idea of recording a few singles, it has been speculated that fellow comedian and trailblazer Richard Pryor bet Eddie Murphy $100,000 that he can’t create a hit song. Although “Party All the Time” was born with mixed reviews by critics, the fans say otherwise as the song has been called “timeless nostalgia” today and hit #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1985. With the talented Rick James as the producer for the track, it was a losing bet from the start for Richard Pryor.

Big Time Rush’s Upcoming “Can’t Get Enough” Summer Tour 

btr tour poster Big Time Rush Brings Eddie Murphy's 1985 Hit "Party All the Time" To Their New Album, "Another Life"
Photo: Big Time Rush / Live Nation

Big Time Rush is getting ready to embark on their “Can’t Get Enough” summer tour, dropping a 10-track album called Another Life – the first full-length independent release in 10 years for the band. Last year’s “Forever Tour” was hugely successful, leaning on their greatest hits with just a few new singles resulting in sold-out shows. It will be interesting to see the enthusiasm in the crowd for the songs on the new album that they will perform this time around and could be a predictor of whether their success has been held up by the greatest hits from the super popular Big Time Rush TV show on Nickelodeon or if the fans are ready to evolve with them and are true die-hard fans of Big Time Rush 2.0.

Big Time Rush Tour
BigTimeRush.com

Read another Big Time Rush article: Big Time Rush’s Return to Music after Ten Years Was a Risk that is Paying Off – Big Time

So to the fellow Rushers out there, what do you think of the new album?

See If they are coming to your city: Tour

Check out different album formats for purchase: Music

June 2023 Holidays Dogs Pets Cats Pride

A Long List of the Official, the Silly, and the Strange Holidays in June 2023

From “National Dog Dad Day” to “National Pop Goes the Weasel Day”, June is stacked full of awareness and appreciation days. If you are looking for a reason to have a get-together, check out this list of official and unofficial holidays in June that will surely have something for everyone.

June 3

Insect Repellent Awareness Day
National Black Bear Day
National Chocolate Macaroon Day
National Egg Day
National Prairie Day
National Trails Day
World Bicycle Day

June 4

International Corgi Day
National Cancer Survivors Day
National Cheese Day
National Hug Your Cat Day

dreamstimeextralarge 228911871 A Long List of the Official, the Silly, and the Strange Holidays in June 2023
ID 228911871 © Natalia Bachkova | Dreamstime.com

June 5

National Gingerbread Day
National Veggie Burger Day
HIV Long-Term Survivors Awareness Day

June 6

D-Day
National Higher Education Day

National Yo-Yo Day

D-Day Invasion map of Normandy, France
ID 159790378 © Ktarrier | Dreamstime.com

June 7

Daniel Boone Day
Global Running Day
June Bug Day
National Chocolate Ice Cream Day
National Tailors Day
National VCR Day
World Caring Day
World Food Safety Day

Chocolate Ice Cream Waffle Cone
ID 116615999 © Julijadm | Dreamstime.com

June 8

National Best Friends Day
National Name Your Poison Day
World Brain Tumor Day
World Pet Memorial Day

June 9

International Dark ‘n Stormy Day
National Donald Duck Day
National Meal Prep Day

June 10

National Ballpoint Pen Day
National Egg Roll Day
National Herbs and Spices Day
National Iced Tea Day National Rosé Day
World Gin Day

June 11

National Children’s Day
National Corn on the Cob Day
National German Chocolate Cake Day
Say “Hi” Day

June 12

International Falafel Day
National Jerky Day
National Loving Day
National Puerto Rican Day Parade
National Red Rose Day
Raggedy Ann and Andy Day
Superman Day
World Day Against Child Labor

June 13

National Call Your Doctor Day
National Sewing Machine Day
National Weed Your Garden Day
World Softball Day

Sewing machine DIY
ID 186795204 © Florencia Baez | Dreamstime.com

June 14

Flag Day
International Bath Day
Monkey Around Day
National Bourbon Day
National Pop Goes the Weasel Day
National Strawberry Shortcake Day
World Blood Donor Day

June 15

Global Wind Day
National Career Nurse Assistants Day
National Smile Power Day
Nature Photography Day

June 16

Arborist Appreciation Day
Fresh Veggies Day
National Fudge Day
World Sea Turtle Day

June 17

International Surfing Day
National Dog Dad’s Day
National Eat Your Vegetables Day
National Mascot Day
World Juggling Day

Dog Dad Day Pet Parent
ID 80331433 © Sarayuth Punnasuriyaporn | Dreamstime.com

June 18

Father’s Day
International Day for Countering Hate Speech
International Picnic Day
International Sushi Day
National Go Fishing Day
National Splurge Day
Wear BLUE Day

June 19

Juneteenth
National Martini Day

National Take Your Cat to Work Day
National Watch Day
World Sickle Cell Day

Cat Work Day Work From Home
ID 143336080 © Viacheslav Iacobchuk | Dreamstime.com

June 20

National American Eagle Day
National Vanilla Milkshake Day
World Productivity Day
World Refugee Day

June 21

Go Skateboarding Day
International Yoga Day
National Selfie Day
Summer Solstice

World Humanist Day

Summer Solstice Holiday Sunshine
ID 16710104 © Aaron Hinckley | Dreamstime.com

June 22

National Limoncello Day
National Onion Ring Day
National Kissing Day
Positive Media Day

June 23

International Olympic Day
International Widows’ Day
Let It Go Day
National Pink Day
National Take Your Dog to Work Day

June 24

International Fairy Day
Midsummer Day

National Pralines Day
Summersgiving

June 25

Color TV Day
Global Beatles Day
Log Cabin Day
National Catfish Day
National Leon Day

Beatles Day
ID 158559039 © Imma Gambardella | Dreamstime.com

June 26

International Day Against Drug Abuse
International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

National Beautician’s Day
National Chocolate Pudding Day
National Coconut Day

June 27

Decide To Be Married Day
Helen Keller Day
National Bingo Day

National HIV Testing Day
National Ice Cream Cake Day
National PTSD Awareness Day

Helen Keller
Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan in 1897 via Wikimedia Commons/Library of Congress

June 28

National Insurance Awareness Day
National Logistics Day
National Paul Bunyan Day
National Tapioca Day

June 29

Eid al-Adha
International Fisherman’s Day
National Waffle Iron Day

June 30

National Cream Tea Day
National Corvette Day
National Food Truck Day
World Social Media Day

For the weekly and monthly observances, many are well known, and for good reason. Still, there are more lighthearted topics that make no sense or seem absurd but perhaps make for a really fun theme party.

Weekly observances in June 2023 

First Responders Nurse Doctor Medical Heart Love
ID 178382364 © Iuliia Mikhalitskaia | Dreamstime.com

National Nursing Assistants Week
Lightning Safety Awareness Week
National Fishing and Boating Week
National Garden Week
National Headache Awareness Week
National Little League Baseball Week
National Men’s Health Week
National Roller Coaster Week
National Tennis Week
Pet Appreciation Week
Stepparents’ Week

Monthly Observances in June 2023

African American Music Appreciation Month
Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month
Audiobook Appreciation Month
Caribbean American Heritage Month
Great Outdoors Month
International Surf Music Month
Lemon Month
National Adopt-a-Cat Month
National Camping Month
National Candy Month
National Dairy Month
National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month

Fruit Vegetable Avocado Apples
ID 118601678 © Pamela Mcadams | Dreamstime.com

National Frozen Yogurt Month
National Iced Tea Month
National Mango Month
National Men’s Health Month
National Microchip Month
National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month
National PTSD Awareness Month
Pride Month

Professional Wellness Month
Women’s Golf Month
World Infertility Awareness Month

Check out the links below to see the full lists of June 2023 observances. Whether official, legit, or fabricated, these odd and entertaining awareness days gives us a reason to celebrate something.

The list combines a few different lists from Woman’s Day Magazine, USA Today, and Today.com and has been cut down for this article.

show cover Tinder Talk: Volume 2

Tinder Talk: Volume 2

Melissa analyzes Bella’s Tinder profile pictures and bio before jumping into some feedback on other random biographies on what might be helpful to update for more matches. We also look at some crazy profile bios that get really…descriptive….But it’s Bella’s mindset on being single that is coming into question, and she is her own worst enemy when it comes to dating. I think the word is “projecting”…


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

hamilton 7984f03f The Standout Lyrics from Hamilton that Impressed Fans and Critics Alike

The Standout Lyrics from Hamilton that Impressed Fans and Critics Alike

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s impact on Broadway pushed the bounds of when art meets hip-hop and storytelling. Hamilton – An American Musical opened in 2015 and quickly became a worldwide phenomenon. Well-known public figures across politics, music, Hollywood, and pro-sports have praised the award-winning show for its ingenuity. Hamilton attracted a huge fan following while also appealing to a younger demographic for Broadway overall.

If you listen closely, you can hear the references to lyrics that were written by Mobb Deep, Grandmaster Flash, Jay Z, Notorious B.I.G., DMX, and a number of other well-known hip-hop artists. 

Hamilton took seven years to bring to the final stages. In addition to the overwhelming popularity of the show, Hamilton has already earned 11 Tony Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, 7 Oliver Awards, and the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theatre Album. The musical’s film adaptation was originally scheduled for movie theater release, but due to COVID, it was released on Disney +, the only streaming platform where Hamilton can be seen for now.

reel grab hamilton 06 e3435647 The Standout Lyrics from Hamilton that Impressed Fans and Critics Alike
Lin-Manuel Miranda is Alexander Hamilton and Phillipa Soo is Eliza Hamilton in HAMILTON, the filmed version of the original Broadway production.

Here are some of the most memorable lyrics from the songs on the original Hamilton Broadway Cast Album.

Alexander Hamilton
[Aaron Burr]

Plannin’ for the future see him now as he stands on
The bow of a ship headed for the new land
In New York you can be a new man”

hamilton 034 1d8d4780 The Standout Lyrics from Hamilton that Impressed Fans and Critics Alike
Daveed Diggs is the Marquis de Lafayette, Okieriete Onaodowan is Hercules Mulligan, Lin-Manuel Miranda is Alexander Hamilton, Leslie Odom, Jr. is Aaron Burr and Anthony Ramos is John Laurens in HAMILTON, the filmed version of the original Broadway production.

My Shot
[Alexander Hamilton]

“I gotta holler just to be heard
With every word, I drop knowledge
I’m a diamond in the rough, a shiny piece of coal
Tryin’ to reach my goal. My power of speech: unimpeachable
Only nineteen but my mind is older
These New York City streets get colder, I shoulder…..

My Shot – “Im young, scrappy and hungry and I’m not throwing away my shot!

Continued:

“………..I’m past patiently waitin’
I’m passionately smashin’ every expectation
Every action’s an act of creation
I’m laughin’ in the face of casualties and sorrow
For the first time, I’m thinkin’ past tomorrow”

Continued:

“………..Don’t be shocked when your history book mentions me
I will lay down my life if it sets us free
Eventually, you’ll see my ascendancy”

hamilton 019 w1 28048dcc The Standout Lyrics from Hamilton that Impressed Fans and Critics Alike
Phillipa Soo is Eliza Hamilton, Renée Elise Goldsberry is Angelica Schuyler and Jasmine Cephas Jones is Peggy Schuyler in HAMILTON, the filmed version of the original Broadway production.

Schulyer Sisters
[Aaron Burr]

“Excuse me, miss, I know it’s not funny
But your perfume smells like your daddy’s got money”

Continued:
[Angelica Schulyer]

“You want a revolution? I want a revelation!
So, listen to my declaration:
‘We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal
And when I meet Thomas Jefferson
I’m a’ compel him to include women in the sequel, work!”

Yorktown – “Immigrants, we get the job done”

Guns and Ships
[Lafayette]

“I’m takin this horse by the reins makin’
Redcoats redder with bloodstains
And I’m never gonna stop until I make ‘em
Drop and burn ‘em up and scatter their remains, I’m
Watch me engagin’ em! Escapin’ em!
Enragin’ em! I’m—Lafayette”

Cabinet Battle #1
[Thomas Jefferson]

“‘Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.’
We fought for these ideals; we shouldn’t settle for less
These are wise words, enterprising men quote ‘em
Don’t act surprised, you guys, cuz I wrote ‘em”

hamilton 43837a37 The Standout Lyrics from Hamilton that Impressed Fans and Critics Alike
Lin-Manuel Miranda is Alexander Hamilton and Daveed Diggs is the Marquis de Lafayette in HAMILTON, the filmed version of the original Broadway production.

Non-Stop
[Alexander Hamilton]

“I practiced the law, I practically perfected it
I’ve seen injustice in the world and I’ve corrected it
Now for a strong central democracy
If not, then I’ll be Socrates
Throwing verbal rocks at these mediocrities.”

Nonstop: “Life doesn’t discriminate between the sinners and the saints”

Yorktown (The World Turned Upside Down)
[Alexander Hamilton]

“I imagine death so much it feels more like a memory.
This is where it gets me,
On my feet, the enemy ahead of me.
If this is the end of me,
At least I have a friend with me.
Weapon in my head,
In command of my men with me.”

Wait For It
[Aaron Burr]

“Life doesn’t discriminate
Between the sinners and the saints
It takes and it takes and it takes
And we keep living anyway
We rise and we fall and we break
And we make our mistakes
And if there’s a reason I’m still alive
When so many have died
Then I’m willin’ to—wait for it”

The Story of Tonight
[Alexander Hamilton]

“I may not live to see our glory
But I will gladly join the fight
And when our children tell our stories
They’ll tell the story of tonight”

0625 06 bd426d9d The Standout Lyrics from Hamilton that Impressed Fans and Critics Alike
Christopher Jackson is George Washington and Lin-Manuel Miranda is Alexander Hamilton in HAMILTON, the filmed version of the original Broadway production.

Room Where it Happens
[Alexander Hamilton]

“When you got skin in the game, you stay in the game
But you don’t get a win unless you play in the game
Oh, you get love for it. You get hate for it
You get nothing if you…wait for it”

hamilton keyart v4 lg bf5980df The Standout Lyrics from Hamilton that Impressed Fans and Critics Alike
HAMILTON – AN AMERICAN MUSICAL

For the Love of Hip-Hop

Hamilton-An American Musical will be referenced as one of the most inspiring and innovative musicals of all time, thanks to Lin-Manuel Miranda’s creative mind and passion for hip-hop. You can stream Hamilton now only on Disney +, or catch it live in NYC on Broadway. In addition to the original soundtrack, the Hamilton Mixtape has an impressive list of artists covering the originals in this version, which you can check out here.

If you have different favorite lyrics, let me know in the comments!


HAMILTON – An American Musical

11 Tony Awards, including Best Musical

Pulitzer Prize for Drama

7 Olivier Awards, including Best Musical

Grammy Award for Best Musical Theatre Album

Book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda

Based on Ron Chernow’s biography of Alexander Hamilton

Choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler

Musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire

Direction by Thomas Kail

Produced by Jeffrey Seller, Sander Jacobs, Jill Furman and The Public Theater

On Broadway at the Richard Rodgers Theatre (226 West 46th Street) and on tour in the US, in London’s West End, and in Australia and Germany.

Hamilton is the story of America’s Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies, who became George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and was the new nation’s first Treasury Secretary. Hamilton‘s score blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B, and Broadway – the story of America then, as told by America now.

Hamilton features scenic design by David Korins, costume design by Paul Tazewell, lighting design by Howell Binkley, sound design by Nevin Steinberg, hair and wig design by Charles G. LaPointe, and casting by Telsey + Company, Bethany Knox, CSA.

Hamilton is produced by Jeffrey Seller, Sander Jacobs, Jill Furman and The Public Theater.

Abandoned city post-apocalypse

My Post-Apocalyptic Zombie Survival Strategies

Just having a little fun on this one. Of course deemed purely fictional, my escape from the real world is to watch TV and movies about different versions of a post-apocalyptic world that is worse than what is outside my front door.

The true fans of the comic book series and lower-budget movies are likely going to be annoyed that I’m even writing about zombies because I get most of my knowledge from movies, TV shows, and the book “The Zombie Survival Guide” by Max Brooks. Even the CDC has a satirical article about what to do should the zombie apocalypse takes place, which just adds to my love for the culture.

I will cover three of my favorite movies and shows – Walking Dead, World War Z, and I Am Legend – because I am still in awe of The Last of Us. In the meantime, I’ve been putting together a Zombie Apocalypse Survivor Plan. I’m assembling an Avengers-style supergroup to cover the different situations that I assume would be encountered. I have assigned roles to certain friends and they laugh it off, but perhaps I will have the final laugh when any of the fictional scenarios happen.

The Walking Dead

The Walking Dead Cast. Zombies and Monsters.
Gene Page/AMC

The Walking Dead called the zombies “Walkers“, which is fitting for the pace of their movements and how their transformation takes anywhere from three minutes to eight hours after death (in the TV version). These zombies can wander in every part of accessible land and are not affected by sunlight, so they can be encountered anywhere either alone or in groups.  They are able to see and hear, but they aren’t as strong, and people armed with a simple sharp tool would be able to defend themselves unless outnumbered.

After 12 years of the show (2010 to 2022) learning how to deal with the “Walkers” wouldn’t be the biggest threat to the survivors. Every living person would be raiding abandoned homes for food, weapons, ammo, or a safe haven with water and a good amount of furniture to block the doors and windows. Eventually, one crew will run into another and there is no telling if they are good guys or bad guys. If they are lucky to escape the bad guys, they often have to start all over – finding weapons, food, and anything else they had taken from them. If the good guys find another group of good guys, they may find a nice place to post up until something comes along to add some drama to the mix. This article details the number of zombies that were taken out by the main characters.

The plan to survive: Construct a group that has people with a particular set of skills: gardening, hunting, negotiating, scavenging, weapon training, cooking, doctor, and experts in all kinds of items that can be used for self-defense besides guns.

I Am Legend

I am Legend zombie movies
Copyright by Warner Bros.

I Am Legend is not a zombie movie but I put it in the same category for the purpose of this comparison. Watching the movie twice was all I could handle because I sobbed when Will Smith’s canine partner in crime was bitten and Will had to put him down in the middle of the transformation from dog to vampire. Seeing the post-apocalyptic world where vampires are the enemy is what makes the movie so fascinating. Will Smith’s character was immune to the virus allowing him to work on a cure, but this virus is much more dangerous because it is airborne and people can be infected simply by being in the vicinity of someone who is infected.

Based on the 1954 Richard Matheson’s novel I Am Legend, this 2007 version is the third time that this movie was attempted. This was also the first time that CGI was used for the adaptation likely a huge part of the movie’s success, bringing in nearly $600 million to the box office. That and Will Smith is one of the few strong actors that can carry the entire movie without a large supporting cast.

The movie starts with the typical chaos, dividing families and bombing cities and bridges. Years later and assumed to be the last man on earth, loneliness and unwavering determination to find a cure was Will Smith’s purpose for living. During the day, he lived a pretty normal life, golfing, hunting, cooking, and working out in his house. When the sun went down, the vampires known as the “Darkseekers” were so dangerous that both Will Smith and his dog curled up in a bathtub to hide until daylight. The “Darkseekers” were the most humanlike and intelligent of the other monsters mentioned here, able to do things like set traps and fight like humans – even appearing to have emotions. The most unique part of this movie is that it has two different endings that would have taken the movie in two very different directions.

The plan to survive: Do what you need to do during the day and then hunker down for a completely silent night. May the odds ever be in your favor. You’re on your own.

World War Z

16ZOMBIE3 superJumbo My Post-Apocalyptic Zombie Survival Strategies
Copyright by Paramount Pictures

In a matter of minutes, the recently retired scientist/investigator with the United Nations WMD Brad Pitt and his family are all together in the car playing a road trip game when chaos ensues. Brad used his government connections to get to a Navy vessel as a safe haven. He soon finds out that he either participates in the mission to find a cure or he and his family will have to be evicted.

These zombies are the worst. Fast, strong, travel towards the sound, and have the ability to turn a healthy human into a zombie within 12 seconds. Really tall walls didn’t do much if just one of these zombies hear something. That one sound would cause all the zombies in the area to charge towards the sound and get to the source however possible. In this movie, the zombies just climb on top of each other until they reach the wall and continue the chaos.

wwzwall My Post-Apocalyptic Zombie Survival Strategies
Copyright by Paramount Pictures

 World War Z shows the really compact city life under siege in a matter of minutes with no concept of how to handle it. The movie (for the most part) happens in real-time, with everyone in charge weighing different options as they arise and acting on them nearly immediately. They didn’t have time to grab a bunch of armor, they acted on what needed to happen and figured out everything else along the way.

The plan to survive: Stay silent in a high-rise apartment and hope things get better, or be a smart scientist and expert in your field so you get special treatment and security from the government in exchange for safety for your family. The zombies are worse, but the odds of survival do seem better because of the speed at which they figure everything out.

It’s World War Z for me

World War Z My Post-Apocalyptic Zombie Survival Strategies
Copyright by Paramount Pictures

Out of The Walking Dead, I Am Legend, and World War Z, I like the odds in World War Z. Possibly because it seems like the most realistic in how there are scientists and military aren’t completely clueless, therefore neutralized immediately. I’d like to think the military and government would have some kind of plan or would have figured out that zombie bites equal more zombies. The best of the military, the United Nations, and scientists could come together for the priority to find and bring together to have the brightest minds together to figure out a cure as fast as possible. Brad Pitt fits the role of World War Z, and he seems more resourceful and fearless by the way he makes observations in the middle of chaos and rallies everyone to put their trust in him.

Amongst my friends across the country, I’ve jokingly asked for their commitment to join the Zombie Squad that I am constructing that would lead to the best odds of survival if left with nothing but bare hands to start over and navigate to the safest possible place to set up camp. I have no skills besides being able to negotiate, so I should learn how to plant a garden or raise chickens or something. Otherwise, I’ll be the one hiding in the cabinets hoping everything will work itself out.

Spoiler Alert: Marvel Cinematic Universe: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Review

Spoiler Alert: Marvel Cinematic Universe: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Review

The Guardians came together for one last time on a mission, leading up to major decisions that would change their respective worlds, and no one amongst these ride-or-die best friends told each other yet.

This Time It Is Personal

It has been confirmed everywhere that this would be the final Guardians of the Galaxy franchise. For Volume 3, their mission was not to defend and save a world that needed help. If there were ever questions about how Rocket became the walking, talking, fighting, and intelligent member of the Guardians, Volume 3 is where the answers can be found.

wsa4580 trl comp wta v0198.1070 r 1 Spoiler Alert: Marvel Cinematic Universe: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Review
Marvel Studios – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3

The movie opens with a bit of a somber look into a regular day of the crew (minus Gamora). Star-Lord is still dealing with Gamora’s death by getting blackout drunk and having to be carried to his bed to sleep it off. No one was expecting any kind of attack, but a villain from Vol. 2, the gold, flying mama’s boy Adam Warlock came in seeking revenge by orders of his mother, Ayesha. Adam Warlock was created to be the perfect Sovereign, one of the strongest in the Marvel Universe. His destruction of the Guardians of the Galaxy’s town was one thing, but the team was immediately activated by passion, urgency, and fear when the attack on Rocket was so severe that he only had 48 hours to live. As he fought for his life, the rest set out to retrieve the code that will disarm the kill switch that was built into his body when he was a young raccoon used as one of hundreds of animals tested by High Evolutionary to make a perfect being for society.

kwc7000 trl comp frm v0177.1079 r Spoiler Alert: Marvel Cinematic Universe: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Review
Marvel Studios – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3
gotgv3 warlock hcm 47901 r Spoiler Alert: Marvel Cinematic Universe: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Review
Marvel Studios – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3

Adorable Animals and Innocent Children Were Still The Test Subjects After Rocket Escaped

This was Rocket’s movie. If you love animals, bring tissues. I cried at least four times when Rocket would have flashbacks while sedated waiting for his friends to come back with the cure. The flashbacks had everything from the scientists operating on him, throwing him in jail, and making friends with three other animals that experienced the same thing – torture for the purpose of experimentation to find the right formula for a perfect being. They were told that they were going to be released. The four failed experiments formed a strong friendship until Rocket finds out the truth about their fate and tries to do something to save his other animal test subject friends. He was unsuccessful, and his friends were killed at the hands of the High Evolutionary.

are0050 comp rdo v0023.1090 r Spoiler Alert: Marvel Cinematic Universe: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Review
Marvel Studios – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3

All Hands on Deck

The Guardians of the Galaxy were on their most passionate mission yet and determined to do anything and everything to do it. I was a little confused about the return of Gamora, but I was too focused on trying to follow their paths around the galaxy to different planets and what each planet had that was needed to keep Rocket alive. Obstacles were plenty, but the determination to save a best friend is a different kind of mission that the Guardians of the Galaxy could not lose.

trl0050 comp spi v0064.1020 r Spoiler Alert: Marvel Cinematic Universe: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Review
Marvel Studios – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3

And then the first ever F-bomb in the MCU was dropped, and Chris Pratt was the chosen one to do it. I think it was said in the safest scene for the F-bomb to be dropped. It wasn’t during an action scene, it wasn’t directed at any particular person. I think it is safe to say that the word was placed in the dialog where tensions and frustrations are high, making it very mild and pretty harmless to young fans.

Marvel, MCU, Guardians of the Galaxy
Marvel Studios – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3
wsa4690 trl comp wta v0398.1105 r Spoiler Alert: Marvel Cinematic Universe: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Review
Marvel Studios – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3

The actual bad guy High Evolutionary was becoming more obsessed by the day, with finding Rocket to use for more experimentation by taking his brain to continue researching. The Guardians barely made it, but it was touch and go at the very moment they were trying to save him. I was sobbing at this point. Luckily it was the 3D version so no one could really me crying with the dark 3D glasses.

Love and Purpose

I was satisfied with how everything was wrapped up. The Guardians of the Galaxy disbanded on their own accord, the soundtrack was amazing and the little jokes were still sprinkled in.  Maybe a little too many considering that they were on an extremely tight timeline for a really important purpose. But when you add innocent animals, caged children, and each of the Guardians discovering each other’s true purpose, it was a sad, meaningful, heartwarming, tale fitting for the last volume of one of the best franchises in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

I’ll leave the rest of the storyline out so that this whole article isn’t a spoiler. But seriously, bring tissues. Check out the trailer here!

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
Marvel, MCU, Guardians of the Galaxy
Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3.
1682987930973 e2c8a2dcede1b1ed0d3e7f359517506f 20: Hollywood Controversies and Cancelations Throughout the Years

20: Hollywood Controversies and Cancelations Throughout the Years

Melissa and I talk showbiz offenses and the rules that have changed since the 2000s.

Comedy can be hard to defend for some, but for us, it is all about context.You can’t cancel ALL the moments in pop culture that are definitely offensive today, but a movie from 2008 versus a movie released in 2023 has so many more rules to avoid the public backlash that could result in boycotts, apologies and broken endorsements. Some can be defended, others… definitely not.But as long as people learn and accept the changes to the rules in pop culture, we will be ok.

Watch the video version here!

We talk about:

Emma Stone’s Role in Aloha

SNL Weekend Update

Michael Che’s Intern Joke

Tropic Thunder

White Chicks

Wedding Planner

Australian Influencer’s childhood animal cruelty

Chris Pratt Meme

Friends episode with Joey’s tailor

Mr. Roger’s farts


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Scroll to Top