A is for Asexual – Always Be You… Except You Review

June is Pride Month, a great time to celebrate the LGBTQIA community. Sadly some people stop after T, whether to shorten the acronym or out of ignorance for the rest of the community. Do you know what the A is for? If you say ally, you’re mistaken. The A is for asexuality, which is “the lack of sexual attraction to others, or low or absent interest in or desire for sexual activity.” This can puzzle others, making asexual people nervous about coming out. They might meet the claims that “it’s just a phase,” but we need to accept they understand themselves more than we could. This brings us to my friend’s film Always Be You… Except You.

Angel Hernandez is tired of being misunderstood for their asexuality. They decide to reach out to KittenPawx, their favorite YouTuber whose slogan is “Always Be You.” Surely someone so accepting would understand. Luckily KittenPawx invites them to her stream. But upon coming out as asexual, she believes they’re lonely and needs more time to “find that special someone.” KittenPawx is gay herself and insists she’s not diminishing Angel’s sexuality, yet still insists they try dating apps and they’ll discover their true self soon enough. Angel’s greatly disappointed, as KittenPawx had been a source of comfort for them. Thankfully their friend Caleb, who frequently tried playing games like “F*** or Duck” with them, had looked into asexuality and changed his behavior for Angel.

Inspired by true events, it can be hard meeting your heroes. Not everyone is accepting as they claim, whether out of ignorance or bigotry. Remember that true friends will accept you for who you are, regardless of who you like or how you like it. This Pride Month, let’s celebrate everyone in the LGBTQIA community. Everyone deserves to be heard and understood.

Geekify Inc. – Fandom Made to Order

The last time I had attended MegaCon, my sister and I were drawn to Geekify’s booth. I was drawn to the movie accurate book covers from the likes of Labyrinth, The Neverending Story, and even Back to the Future. My sister was drawn to the many items featuring The Last Unicorn. Enamel pins, scarves, tarot cards, she just had to have some! This year she practically bought out the booth of their Last Unicorn merchandise. I myself have looked deeper into Geekify and what they do.

Geekify prides in their “quality, handcrafted products for the discerning geek.” They provide many ways you can have a popular book cover in your collection. The designs come in the form of device covers, journals/sketchbooks, jewelry boxes, and even book lights. In addition to the ones I named above, they include Hocus Pocus, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, Beetlejuice, and more. Some cover designs have even been placed over actual published works. You too can own The Neverending Story as it looks in the classic fantasy film. This year they displayed The Book of the Dead and the key from 1999’s The Mummy. Canvas maps were a hot selling item as well, with the map to El Dorado (The Road to El Dorado) and Bill Cipher’s Hermetic Scroll (Gravity Falls) selling out by the end of Saturday.

In addition to the products they sell, Geekify offers services to help you with your own business or personal needs. 3D printing, virtual reality sessions, and laser/vinyl cutting are just a few of the services they provide. I’m almost sure this is how they made a deal with Peter S. Beagle, author of The Last Unicorn. All their pins, stickers, and blankets based on the film are official. Beagle even autographed one of the tarot cards in the set. If you want to promote your business or need fabrics for your cosplay, Geekify has your back.

My sister’s hat with all of Geekify’s Last Unicorn enamel pins

Geekify isn’t stopping there. They’re expecting to release plush of The Last Unicorn‘s Red Bull, butterfly, and lead Unicorn this holiday season. I submitted to their idea box, wondering if they’d recreate Luz’s Good Witch Azura title from The Owl House. The idea box is where you can reach out about product ideas or your own custom orders. They’re quick to respond and cooperative with anything you offer. I once had a great conversation about recreating Sarah’s vest from Labyrinth. Maybe one day I’ll do a proper commission. Whatever they complete, I’m excited for what’s next.

Keeping yourself creative

It seems likes eons since I’ve stepped foot into a movie theater, park, gym or have done anything for my leisure.  The mundane routine of staying at home can seem like a daunting and less than exciting agenda while contemplating the fragility of our morality of ourselves and our loved ones and friends.

There is a solution that will vary depending on what creative leanings you have and what’s available to you.  There are two ways  being creative:  Enjoying art and creating it.  Many often enjoy art in forms of movies, TV episodes, podcasts, music and books.  Those that are daring can venture into making crochet items, 3-d printing things, painting, and even designing video games.

Quite recently, last week in fact, I participated in an online tournament (unfortunately others are more skilled at the games) in which I competed for a chance to have a particular amount donated to the children’s hospital that is in the Extra Life network.  This event took place instead online instead of the in-person event at Gaylord Palms resort in Orlando, Florida.

Taking part of the event reminded me that solidarity can in fact be taken apart and there are ways to do things are are seemingly innocuous but are in fact very helpful for yourself and others.  This was a chance for me to enjoy an art in order to raise money for children’s hospitals.

I challenge you dear reader to find your creative edge and maybe apply it to help others.  Quite recently I read about a Canadian Boy Scout that designed attachments for face masks that are adjustable to make the duration of wearing masks for long periods more bearable and comfortable, Linus Tech Tips was 3d printing mask components to be used.

We are often more well armed than we think.  We have resources and things available to us that we can do to help ourselves and help others: Calling our friends and family to see how they’re doing, working from home, creating things to help those that fight the virus.  Creating artwork that inspires others while we are in our dire time.

Don’t worry friends, this is just temporary, once this is over we can party.

Spreading joy while stay safe at home.

Many are fearful of their employment their livelihood and their safety of themselves and their loved ones. Many are astounded by the gripping fear that dwells within by thinking only about the negativity. Fortunately there are those brave souls that continually provide the arts:Music, Books, movies and others. Some have even gone as far as live streaming their musicality like my brother Philip, continually providing talents to distract and provide a temporary peace of mind.

Those of you who are out there taking care of our loved ones we thank you. Doctors, nurses and much more, words are only the beginning for the thanks.

Stay safe everyone, remember to be kind, always.

New details about Disney’s expansions

This October, guests will be able to visualize all of the exciting plans for Epcot at a new experience center in the Odyssey Events Pavilion, called Walt Disney Imagineering presents the Epcot Experience. Inside this first-of-its-kind offering within a Disney park, guests will discover engaging and interactive exhibits that allow you to step inside the relentless innovation, energy and excitement and see some never-before-revealed details driving the future of Epcot all throughout this unprecedented period of transformation.

“Guardians of the Galaxy”: Cosmic Rewind ride cars:

 

Based on the breadcrumb information that is given to us directly from Disney, either from D23 or it’s official parks blog, it looks like a very diverse and interactive portion of works joining the Disney Parks in the near future.  Guardians of the Galaxy is of particular interest, marking one of the first marvel themed Disney rides to reach Walt Disney World theme parks.  Moana, will soon to have her own attraction based on her popular movie.  Frozen was the first to reach popularity enough to call for a retheme of the Maelstrom attraction in Norway and other aspects of the pavillion.

With all the new changes, what are you going to miss the most?

 

Ghosts celebrate anniversary, Jungle skippers then proceed to give tour of spooky mansion.

There’s a special Haunted Mansion in California that has celebrated it’s 50th anniversary. All Haunted Mansion incarnations joined in on the fun but this most peculiar set of Jungle Skippers are delivering some dead on arrival jokes at the Haunted Mansion’s expense: Jungle Cruise style.

It is however all in good fun and unfortunately, I did laugh too many times than I should have. To all of you who celebrate Halloween early: It’s never too early!

New Pokemon TV show, Bad Boys for Life, JoJo Rabbit

Pokemon TV show

Not much is revealed as of right now for the new TV show, it does flash by different starter pokemon from the cannocal generations of games.  Could this be a tie in to the current Sword and Shield as well as the new Pokemon Masters mobile game?  Only time will tell.

Bad Boys for Life.

Finally the first trailer is out. It looks to have the stylings of the two first films in the series. Not much revealing the plot which is a relief. It does reveal who else has joined the cast of the film. Definitely an exciting film from what the trailer shows so far.

JoJo Rabbit

Before watching the trailer, judging the track record of Taika Waititi in most recent films, I’m going to say there is going to be a high level of heart and comedy in the mix. After watching the trailer, it looks like a satirical criticism on Nazis and in turn on blind nationalism.

Which are you most excited for? For me, all of them look like they are a must see films and shows. Only time will tell until more revelations are made and eventually they are released.

Disney’s Dumbo

ON WITH THE SHOW – When a persuasive entrepreneur decides to make Dumbo a star at his larger-than-life entertainment venture, former circus star Holt Farrier (Colin Farrell) and his children Milly (Nico Parker) and Joe (Finley Hobbins) vow to stick with their beloved flying elephant the whole way. Directed by Tim Burton, Disney’s all-new, live-action, big-screen adventure “Dumbo” flies into theaters on March 29, 2019. ©2018 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

BUILDING DREAMS — In Tim Burton’s all-new, live-action reimagining of “Dumbo,” persuasive entrepreneur V.A. Vandevere (Michael Keaton) decides that a young elephant from a struggling circus belongs in his newest, larger-than-life entertainment venture, Dreamland, alongside charming and spectacular aerial artist Colette Marchant (Eva Green). Directed by Burton and produced by Katterli Frauenfelder, Derek Frey, Ehren Kruger and Justin Springer, “Dumbo” flies into theaters on March 29, 2019. Photo by Jay Maidment. © 2018 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

PERFORMING PAIR — In Tim Burton’s all-new, live-action reimagining of “Dumbo,” former circus star Holt Farrier (Colin Farrell) is tapped to care for a newborn elephant with oversized ears. But when everyone learns that the elephant can fly, Holt finds himself—and Dumbo—in the middle of a new, larger-than-life entertainment venture, Dreamland, alongside charming and spectacular aerial artist Colette Marchant (Eva Green). “Dumbo” flies into theaters on March 29, 2019. Photo by Jay Maidment. © 2018 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

THAT’S SHOW BUSINESS – In Disney’s all-new, live-action feature film “Dumbo,” persuasive entrepreneur V.A. Vandevere (Michael Keaton) recruits a flying elephant named Dumbo for his newest, larger-than-life entertainment venture, Dreamland. Dumbo soars to new heights alongside a stunning aerial artist, Colette Marchant (Eva Green). But Holt Farrier (Colin Farrell), who was originally enlisted to care for Dumbo with his kids (Nico Parker and Finley Hobbins), soon discovers that beneath its shiny veneer, Dreamland is full of dark secrets. Directed by Tim Burton, “Dumbo” flies into theaters on March 29, 2019. ©2018 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

EARS TO YOU – In Disney’s all-new, live-action feature film “Dumbo,” a newborn elephant with oversized ears make him a laughingstock in an already struggling circus. But Dumbo takes everyone by surprise when they discover he can fly. Directed by Tim Burton, “Dumbo” flies into theaters on March 29, 2019. ©2018 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

From Disney and visionary director Tim Burton, the all-new grand live-action adventure “Dumbo” expands on the beloved classic story where differences are celebrated, family is cherished and dreams take flight. Circus owner Max Medici (Danny DeVito) enlists former star Holt Farrier (Colin Farrell) and his children Milly (Nico Parker) and
Joe (Finley Hobbins) to care for a newborn elephant whose oversized ears make him a laughingstock in an already struggling circus.

WHEN I SEE AN ELEPHANT FLY — In Tim Burton’s all-new, live-action reimagining of “Dumbo,” former circus star Holt Farrier (Colin Farrell) and his children (Nico Parker and Finley Hobbins) find themselves caring—and advocating—for a newborn elephant whose oversized ears make him a laughingstock in an already struggling circus. Directed by Burton and produced by Katterli Frauenfelder, Derek Frey, Ehren Kruger and Justin Springer, “Dumbo” flies into theaters on March 29, 2019. © 2018 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

DREAMING BIG — In Tim Burton’s all-new, live-action reimagining of “Dumbo,” persuasive entrepreneur V.A. Vandevere (Michael Keaton) decides that a young elephant from a struggling circus belongs in his newest, larger-than-life entertainment venture, Dreamland. Directed by Burton and produced by Katterli Frauenfelder, Derek Frey, Ehren Kruger and Justin Springer, “Dumbo” flies into theaters on March 29, 2019. © 2018 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

FLYING HIGH – In Disney’s new live-action adventure “Dumbo,” a newborn elephant with giant ears discovers he can fly, and he’s destined to be a star, which may or may not be a good thing. Directed by Tim Burton, “Dumbo” flies into theaters on March 29, 2019.

But when they discover that Dumbo can fly, the circus makes an incredible comeback, attracting persuasive entrepreneur V.A. Vandevere (Michael Keaton), who recruits the peculiar pachyderm for his newest,
larger-than-life entertainment venture, Dreamland. Dumbo soars to new heights alongside a charming and spectacular aerial artist, Colette Marchant (Eva Green), until Holt learns that beneath its shiny veneer, Dreamland
is full of dark secrets.

GOTTA FLY – Visionary filmmaker Tim Burton helms the live-action reimagining of Disney’s 1941 animated classic “Dumbo.” “’Dumbo’ was always one of my favorite Disney films,” said Burton. “We’re trying to give it the same heart, feeling and emotion that we all loved about the original.” Starring Colin Farrell, Michael Keaton, Danny DeVito, Eva Green, Nico Parker and Finley Hobbins, “Dumbo” is currently in production in England. © 2017 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved..

SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT – In director Tim Burton’s all-new live-action adventure “Dumbo,” former circus star Holt Farrier (Colin Farrell) and his children Milly (Nico Parker) and Joe (Finley Hobbins) are charged with caring for a newborn elephant whose oversized ears make him a laughingstock in an already struggling circus. Expanding on the beloved classic story where differences are celebrated, family is cherished and dreams take flight, “Dumbo” flies into theaters on March 29, 2019. ©2018 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

FLYING HIGH – In Disney’s new live-action adventure “Dumbo,” a newborn elephant with giant ears discovers he can fly, and he’s destined to be a star, which may or may not be a good thing. Directed by Tim Burton, “Dumbo” flies into theaters on March 29, 2019.

Directed by Tim Burton (“Alice in Wonderland,” “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”) from a screenplay by Ehren Kruger (“Ophelia,” “Dream House”), and produced by Justin Springer (“TRON: Legacy”), Kruger, Katterli Frauenfelder (“Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children,” “Big Eyes”) and Derek Frey (“Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children,” “Frankenweenie”), “Dumbo” flies into theaters on March 29, 2019.

 

Why Pixar’s Sparkshorts is a great idea

Who better to describe what the program/initiative is trying to accomplish than the president of Pixar Animation Studios:

“The SparkShorts program is designed to discover new storytellers, explore new storytelling techniques, and experiment with new production workflows. These films are unlike anything we’ve ever done at Pixar, providing an opportunity to unlock the potential of individual artists and their inventive filmmaking approaches on a smaller scale than our normal fare.” 

-Jim Morris

So up-and-coming artists wishing to take a chance at filmmaking have not only a chance and opportunity but the backing of one of the most popular and successful Animation Studios.  This is a smart move seen on many levels: the masters can learn from new filmmakers and the new storytellers are able to hone their craft working with an already established animation studio.  If the partnership is beneficial there is a wealth of talent already familiar with.

As more animations come out I will most certainly write more about each one individually.  This is a great opportunity to see the raw emotion that can be put into animation and the untapped imagination.  Linked bellow is the Pixar website if you want to find out more and check out more videos.

Pixar Animation Studios Sparkshorts