Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

Good evening everyone and welcome to The Magical Mystery Blog.

First off, I would like to say that my last post has accumulated 190+ likes on Tumblr and I could not be more grateful for that. The topic of fanfiction is not one that is taken as seriously as most writers (like myself) do and it’s terrible because it’s a form of writing which constitutes as an art. Art is an important topic in our lives, it allows us to express, to feel, to be strengthened, to be inspired, and to be educated.

So I would like to thank those who have given that particular post an incredibly high population on Tumblr. Also thank you to my followers in general for making this blog successful, awesome, and amazing. Keep on writing whatever makes you happy, from fanfiction to sonnets and let nothing stop you.

Anyway, onward with tonight’s entry!

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find them” has been in the news the past few days. We now have a picture of our main character, Newt Scamander (played by Eddie Redmayne) with a wand in hand, a briefcase in the other, and standing before a regal set of stairs. If we examine the ground closely, we will see it reads: Congress of the United States of America.

This ties into our next point wherein JK Rowling has deemed American Muggles as ‘No-Maj’. Pronounced as ‘no madge’ it’s simply short for no magic. Newt finds himself in 1926 New York with a suitcase that has Timelord technology that houses various habitats for creatures that he collects and researches as a magizoologist. In New York, wizards are threatened by the No-Maj and are fearfully hiding their magical abilities. Their exposure is incredibly dangerous and apparently it’s far worse in the United Kingdom, causing Salem With trial like events to occur.  Somehow the creatures break loose from Newt’s magical suitcase and from there onward Newt goes on an adventure that could only predate the existence of Harry Potter.

So far we’ve seen some photographs of the new film, featuring the title screen and the cast. We see Newt Scamander in these pictures, but we also see Porpentina “Tina” Goldstein (played by Katherine Waterston), Queenie Goldstein (played by Alison Sudol), and Jacob Kowalski (played by Dan Folger). From what the pictures reveal, some of the film was shot in Leavesden, United Kingdom.

I’m not sure about you guys, but my internal Potterhead is bursting with excitement for this movie.  While we only have another year to go (November 18^th, 2016), I believe the wait will definitely be worth it. After all, this is one of JK Rowling’s pieces and her work is phenomenal – just like her Harry Potter movies and theme parks. Here’s hoping “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” stays true to the book and does not disappoint!

Thank you for reading tonight’s entry. If you enjoyed it, feel free to share, subscribe, comment, and critique.

So tell me, are you excited about “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”?

Take My Revolution: Kill la Kill

Good evening everyone and welcome to The Magical Mystery Blog.

Having been away from most modern day animes and thinking I finally escaped; I was dragged back in by one of my friends. I used to love anime as a teen and grew up with the classics: “Dragonball Z,” “Dragonball,” “Sailor Moon,” “Pokemon,” “Wolf’s Rain,” “.hack//SIGN,” “Revolutionary Girl Utena,” “Lupin the Third,” and so many others. But I found that the more I transitioned into modern day animes like “Black Butler” and “Soul Eater,” the more I realized I just couldn’t do it anymore because it was hard to keep up. Life was what mostly blocked me from pursuing more programs, but it was also the fact that these new shows lacked something for me. What that something was, I still have no idea to this day, but it just felt wrong and incomplete.

And so my friend decided to drag me back into anime by recommending “Kill la Kill.” I had heard about this anime before on many web sites and from my other friends. I think his recommendation was the final nail in the coffin for me to give this show a shot and so I sat down not too long ago and began my binge. I literally finished my binge watching of this anime a half hour ago.

What followed was a series of references, insane (and logical) plot twists, lovable characters, and an addictively fun art style. I was not expecting any of this and immediately found myself caught up in the story of a young lady (Ryuko Matoi) wanting to learn about her father’s death and secrets. With nothing but a scissor blade and a talking uniform (Kamui Senketsu) by her side, she transfers to Honnouji Academy where the story begins.

After watching the series it was at then this anime made me realize two things.

1.  Not all modern anime lack that certain something for me. When I was watching “Kill la Kill,” it reminded me of how I used to feel when watching anime; completely excited, curious, and hanging on the edge of my seat.
   
   
2. “Kill la Kill” is a modern day “Revolutionary Girl Utena.”

The second note made me realize this because of the show’s premise and details. There’s the main protagonist (Ryuko Matoi) who wants to achieve knowledge to understand a fragment of her past. She is a tomboy, very unfeminine, and rough; much like Utena Tenjou, the protagonist from “Revolutionary Girl Utena”.  Ryuko has something (Kamui) that only a select group of people have and this is what entices them to fight; they also issue each other challenges (sometimes by paper, but mostly verbally). In “Revolutionary Girl Utena,” those with the rose crest ring are the only ones that can fight each other and often challenge each other with words or paper.

The challengers in “Revolutionary Girl Utena” consist of five student council members (Kyouichi Saionji, Juri Arisugawa, Miki Kaoru, Touga Kiryuu, and Nanami Kiryuu). Touga is the president and leads them, while receiving orders from the director of Ohtori Academy. The challengers in “Kill la Kill” are also five students (including Satsuki) who entitle themselves the Elite Four, but act as the overall student council; they consist of Hoka Inumuta, Satsuki Kiryuin, Sanageyama,Nonon Jakuzure, and Ira Gamagori. Satsuki is the president and leads them, while also receiving orders from the director. Each take on Ryuko in a single battle that brings her closer to fighting her rival, Satsuki. They each battle her on a platform similar to the platform from the movie, ”The Adolescence of Utena” which ties in with the “Revolutionary Girl Utena” program. Both platforms are a flat surface connected with a bridge that drops down onto the area.

The protagonist’s best friend (Mako Mankanshoku) even acts a lot like Wakaba from “Revolutionary Girl Utena,” being completely supportive, hyperactive, and even being taken over by the antagonist’s intentions. Wakaba was taken over by the black rose issued by Mikage and fought Utena. In “Kill la Kill,” the antagonist (Satsuki) allowed Mako to be overtaken by club status and a greedy lifestyle so that she had to fight Ryuko.

Ragyo Kiryuin, the very villain of this series also shares some tendencies with Akio (the ultimate antagonist from “Revolutionary Girl Utena”). They are both presented as tall, God like figures, looking down upon those who are beneath them in luxurious towers. Both Ragyo and Akio are very incestuous when it comes to their family; Akio and Anthy (his sister) have an abusive, yet sexual relationship. Ragyo and Satsuki (her daughter) also have the same type of relationship.

There’s also a matter of Ryuko’s weapon, the scissor blade. In “Revolutionary Girl Utena,” the main protagonist (Utena) has the sword of Dios. Though later on, we encounter its counterpart in the hands of a villain – much like in “Kill la Kill”, the other half of the scissor blade is in the hands of an enemy, Nui Harime. Even the ending itself is similar to “Revolutionary Girl Utena,” in which the protagonist is impaled with thousands of sharpened items (in “Revolutionary Girl Utena” swords, in “Kill la Kill” Ragyo’s wings) and falls to Earth after the battle.

I heavily enjoyed “Kill la Kill” and I love “Revolutionary Girl Utena” to death. To find such similarities between the two filled me with delight. Not only did the series rekindle my love for “Revolutionary Girl Utena,” but it also made me realize that I just can’t leave my love for anime.

Thank you for taking the time to read tonight’s entry. If you enjoyed it, feel free to comment, share, and critique.

So tell me, what’s your favorite anime and why? 

Lestat Rises from the Coffin in a New Book

Good evening everyone and welcome to a most joyous entry at The Magical Mystery Blog.

Last night, a secret was revealed to the world, and caused it to explode with excitement. Bookworms swooned and shrieked like fans at a Paramore concert. For many, last night Lestat de Lioncourt, an eighteenth century vampire of unfiltered beauty and logic, returned to the world.

Ladies, prepare yourselves for one sexy vampire.

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On March 9^th, 2014 Anne Rice announced that on October 28^th of this year, Lestat would rise from his coffin in a new book entitled, “Prince Lestat”. This book will be the eleventh in her “Vampire Chronicles” series, which features the tales of Claudia, Louis, Armand, Lestat, and tons of other vampires that fans have come to know and love. “Prince Lestat” will show the characters coming to terms with what has happened in the past and what they are doing now.

Originally in 2002 Rice claimed that the “Vampire Chronicles” series had come to a close. This upset fans who wanted to see an aftermath of everything that had occurred in the popular 80s book series. However, at a Q & A session with readers, Rice claimed that she wanted to hear what Lestat had to say about the prior events.

Not only will this be the eleventh book in the “Vampire Chronicles” series, but it will also be the last book to finish it. Rice claims that it will be a “true” sequel to the third book of the series, “Queen of the Damned”.

Fellow readers and bookworms, let’s raise our cups in honor of a fantastic writer, bringing such a terrific character back from the grave. Like many of her books before, let’s anticipate the best, and brace ourselves as we read through the last pages of Lestat de Lioncourt.

What do you think the vampires are doing now and how do you think it will tie into the wondrous tale of “Queen of the Damned”? Feel free to comment and reblog, and as always feedback and followers are welcomed.

Once Upon a Revisited Dream

Good evening everyone and welcome to The Magical Mystery Blog.

Last night, people watched the Grammy Awards Show to witness the awkwardness of Taylor Swift, the reuniting of Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney, and the many marriages of happy homosexuals. However, while this night of Hollywood merriment commenced, CBS revealed another trailer to the long awaited Maleficent movie premiering in theaters on May 30^th, 2014. As the teaser revealed the villain, the main score of the original Sleeping Beauty movie played.

However, this isn’t the Once Upon a Dream song you grew up with.

Rather, it is a remake much like other classic Disney songs. But this redoing of Once Upon a Dream is completely and utterly brilliant. This version of the song is a nod to what we heard as children and possibly played the death out of. While it still keeps the whimsicalness that we remember, there is a darker tone added to the tune. This eeriness is included to remind everyone of the story of the villainess that is to be told. Yet this shadowy feel also evolves the classic tune into a more mature melody that resonates with Disney’s target audience for Maleficent.

Maleficent is a Disney movie and Disney movies are often directed towards children. Maleficent is not only targeted at kids, but at adult who grew up watching the original film. When they listen to this tune, not only do they reflect on themselves as children watching Sleeping Beauty, but how the story of a sleeping damsel has evolved with the times.

When Sleeping Beauty was made, everything was set to a simplistic plot for children to understand: Aurora good. Maleficent bad.  It was constructed this way for its child audience so they could comprehend it. But now, children have grown up and so has this story. This story now features Aurora, still on the good side, but she isn’t the main character as much. We now have someone who we always figured was evil, taking the spotlight, and changing the story. Maleficent alters the classic tale because we never received her side of the story. No one wanted to know about the wicked villain who placed a curse on the innocent Aurora. We just generally assumed she was evil. Now in the modern times, everyone wants to know about the reckless monster, and the cause of their actions.

Maleficent’s motives are shrouded in mystery, just like her character which is what also makes the redone Once Upon a Dream song wonderful. The song is sung with a beautiful unknown that captures our hearts and lures us in because it’s something we’re all familiar with. It’s manipulated so not only we are reminded of a childhood tune turned hauntingly enchanting, but it will give a whole new generation a new ideal of Once Upon a Dream.

What do you think of the redone Once Upon a Dream tune? Are you excited for the upcoming Maleficent movie? Feel free to leave your comments below and as always, feedback and followers are welcomed. 

Gonna Catch 'Em All

Along with Futurama ending this past week, we have received some other nerdy news. This tidbit of information has excited gamers everywhere, sparking nostalgia, and causing a tsunami of elation.

In approximately a month, the world will be obtaining the latest Pokemon game, Pokemon X or Y. This is the sixth generation of Pokemon, complete with creatures never seen before, and many others we've grown up with. This past summer, we've had great chunks of exciting news about this game including mega evolutions, Pokemon Amie, trainer customization, and the new fairy type.

However, on September 4^th, 2013 we have been greatly informed about something completely different in the new Pokemon world. We will receive our new starter (our choice of Chespin (Grass), Fennekin (Fire), and Froakie (Water)) along with a first gen starter. That’s right, you’ll be able to get your hands on Charmander (Fire), Bulbasaur (Grass), or Squirtle (Water). Not only that but if you purchase the game before January, you’ll receive a free Torchic with a mega evolution stone. So technically, you get three starters. 

But wait, there’s more.

Your first gen starter can now mega evolve. So Blastoise is now Mega Blastoise with three cannons, crafted for being invincibly epic. 

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Charizard is now Mega Charizard with dragonesque details, made for dominating the Pokemon world. 

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Venusaur is now Mega Venusaur with a flower for beauty, designed for ruling the battlefields.

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I feel as though this is the most prominent information because we not only receive a whole new world of Pokemon but we are joined with our old friends from the very first game. We can relive the adventure we had experienced when we first played this excellent game. Not only will we gain new memories of this brand new Pokemon experience but we will do it with nostalgia by our side, reminding us of what we grew up with, and how the past combines with the future.

As for myself, this new knowledge has made me even more excited to get my hands on Pokemon X. For me, Pokemon is a trip down memory lane and a treat for my inner gamer.  Over the years, I've watched this pixilated game premiere and evolve into tons of generations.  With every release, I've witnessed new creatures form and more features added to game play. Throughout my life, I've crafted a collection of Pokemon games that I’m glad to call my own. Pokemon Red, Blue, Yellow, Gold, Silver, Crystal, Ruby, and Fire Red.

In my twenties, I started to sample the adult life. Bills, jobs, and responsibilities tumbled onto my plate like a mountain of waffles throughout my college years. However, the memories of Pokemon lived on through conversations and friendship.Yet in the midst of laughter and Pokemon teams, a fire flared up. This flickering flame made me question if I was too old for Pokemon; if it was time to put away childish things and grow up. So I packed up my Nintendo DS, stowed away my games in the basement, and carried on as if Pokemon never existed.

When news of Pokemon X and Y came to light, my inner gamer bounced in delight. With every new morsel of information, my internal gamer was filled with more excitement. A new Pokemon game where you could interact with your Pokemon like it was your pet, an even further evolution, and more new beasts to capture and train. It was as though my childhood got an upgrade and my gamer wanted in. I dug out the old DS, brought out my old games, and picked up where I left off.

As I played through my games, I realized I couldn't abandon this series. It had been with me since childhood, adolescence, and now, adulthood. On Christmas Day, I’ll be picking up a Nintendo 2DS and Pokemon X. With a flick of the switch, a smile will appear on my face as the nostalgia will come crashing down. I’ll embrace every moment of it and do my best to catch ‘em all while preparing myself for a long life of work, happiness, and no regrets. I’m going to be the best that no one ever was and no challenge is too great to stop me from becoming just that.

Farewell From the World of Tomorrow

This week was a very important in geek entertainment. One of the most prominent events to occur was the ending of Futurama. Futurama is what happens when Philip J. Fry, a lonely pizza delivery boy, falls into a frozen cryogenic tube and winds up in the distant future. 

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In the future, everyone hails the hypnotoad.

This series has been running for thirteen years. I remember seeing it during my high school days and watched it religiously. Since then I've seen the television specials, viewed the holiday episodes, and even have my eye on a few figures.

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Itty bitty Futurama cuties. 

This final episode has pleased many but left others empty. As for myself, I’m at a crossroads with how I feel about this episode. Below are my pros and cons of the final episode of Futurama.

WARNING, THE FOLLOWING IS SPOILERS. SPOILERS, PEOPLE. IF YOU HAVE NOT SEE THE ENDING OF FUTURAMA DO NOT READ THIS. THANK YOU.

Pros:

-We see how Fry and Leela wind up : this was the moment everyone has anticipated. It was sudden, funny, and beautiful to see these two come together. After finalizing their decision, we see how they cope with a drastic change in the universe by making it into one long, glorious honeymoon. It is a romantic notion, to travel the world and literally do anything. Plus there were no travel bills to pay, no airfare, nothing of that nature. It was just the two newlyweds, their feet, and the backpacks clinging to them.

-It poses an important question: if we had the chance, would we do it all over again? Knowing how beautiful or terrible our lives were, would we go back and do it again? The Professor offers this question to Fry and Leela after they've trekked the globe and explored every wonder. The only downside to this is that if they choose to do it all over again, they would forget everything. They wouldn't remember the beauty of the rain forest, the captured untamed mannerisms of a waterfall, or the ability to walk on water.

-Open ending: due to its sudden ending of reverting the universe back to normal, we are given the freedom to imagine everyone’s lives. We find ourselves conflicted if Fry and Leela will trek across the planet again as their honeymoon. We question if Zoidberg will face more challenges with Marilyn (maybe she’s got a strange fear of a foreign alien race and they abduct her?).  We wonder if Bender and the tap dancing girl will continue to pickpocket those who pass them by. The ideas are infinite, just like space.

Cons:

-Unanswered questions: while this episode was mainly focused on Fry and Leela, it left out the other great characters such as Zoidberg, Bender, Amy, Hermes, and the Professor. What happened to them when time continued, especially with Zoidberg? Did he pursue his relationship with Marilyn? We obviously see he does so in the episode prior to this one but where do they go? And what kind of crazy money stealing scheme would Bender get into, especially with his new assistant?

-It only lasted for a half hour: this was the one thing that shocked me about the final episode. I thought it would be extended to at least an hour because it was the last show. Clearly, I was mistaken.  However, we see other shows like Friends, The Nanny, and other popular programs receive a whole hour for their finale. Futurama is the king of popularity when it comes to animated shows alongside Adventure Time and Family Guy. I question why such a fantastic hit of a show would only have a half hour devoted to its finale.

-It technically never existed: at the very end of the episode, the Professor says that he’d set everything right. By doing this, he would be able to set time back to ten seconds before he created the time device which is about four minutes into the episode. If we followed him through the readjustment we would be left with Fry coming to terms about nearly losing Leela and making the decision to propose. But what would happen afterwards? Would the episode still play out just as it did before? We don’t know because it never existed after four minutes. 

Overall, it was a good episode. It could have been improved in some ways but it was a good end. What are your thoughts on the finale of Futurama? Feel free to leave comments below about why you loved or hated it and what could have been done to improve it.

Come What May

If anyone has seen the musical movie, Moulin Rouge, you are probably aware of the main villain, the Duke. The Duke is the villain of the movie musical who wants Satine like a cat wants cat nip.

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Mreow.

For those of you who don’t know what Moulin Rouge is, it’s a musical with the overall theme of freedom, beauty, truth, and love. It’s set in the Bohemian artistic period of France and is centered on Christian, a young penniless writer just starting out in the world. He stumbles into a case of mistaken identity at the Moulin Rouge burlesque bar, where he is thought to be the Duke. Satine, the wannabe actress confuses Christian for the Duke, and the two begin a love affair. Their relationship is met with the challenges of the relentless Duke and the obstacles of life.

However, from the many times that I have viewed this film I have reason to believe that the Duke is a sufferer of molestation. He may have been a child when this occurred and is just experiencing the results as an adult. I say this because he doesn’t appear to be showing the symptoms as though it recently happened. Rather, it appears he’s suffering the effects as though it took place during his childhood. Below are my three reasons why I believe this claim.

          1)      He Has Possible Trauma– when he makes the deal with Ziddler about turning the Moulin Rouge into a theater, you notice he has his bowler hat is in his lap. This is a typical custom to remove a hat during an important event and place it in the lap or on the coat rack. At one point, we see him furiously fumbling with his hat claiming that he doesn't like “people touching his things.”  The camera focuses on his lap while he does this. The scene is below here from Nostalgia Critic's review of Moulin Rouge.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLqXH95rye4 - Youtube

I feel like this scene could be a personal, traumatic flashback he’s experiencing that the audience does not witness. How he delivers the line is in pure anger as well as his actions. However, we are constantly focused on his lap with the hat covering his groin. His things could refer to his genitalia if he was ever sexually molested. Even Ziddler has a reaction of pure horror at the Duke’s outburst.

           2)      He Confuses Emotional Needs With Sex – in Moulin Rouge ‘love’ is something understood by artists and not greedy businessmen, like the Duke. However, the Duke wants Satine for the reason of lust. He is immediately aroused by her dance moves and skimpy outfits. As a possible victim of molestation, the Duke would have a specific need for sex as a way of nurturing his pain. Sex is the only way that it can be cured for.

The things he was relating to in the previous number also relates to Satine because it’s who he wants in the Moulin Rouge. She is a prostitute, a woman whose job is to give physical pleasure to clients. He considers her as nothing more than a sexual object.  His lust comes to a peak when he attempts to rape her in the Gothic Tower. He no longer treats his relationship with Satine as something civil but as a horse that needs to be broken. The Duke performs threatening sexual acts towards her like ripping off her corset and throwing her onto the bed like a piece of luggage.

          3)      He Has Trust Issues  – in order to ensure that his deal goes the way he wants to, he holds onto the deed of the Moulin Rouge. When he discovers Satine is with Christian, he attempts to rape her. When he doesn't get his ending he tries to kill Christian and even orders Christian to be murdered by Warner, his body guard. These specific situations show the extremity of how far the Duke will go when not trusting others. Yet when we see him rehearsing the plays and popping in on Satine and Christian (who are constantly making out), he immediately trusts them without a thought.

Molestation often leads to an extreme range of trust from no trust at all to complete and total trust.

If you want to see me write about anything in particular, leave a comment. Feel free to follow me as well and have a great day. 

Beauty - A Deeper Look into Belle

Good morning…evening…afternoon, whenever you read this, and welcome to The Magical Mystery Blog.

Once again I apologize for this being such a late post. My planning skills failed me and I worked late on Friday and an early shift today. Because of my work hours, I didn't have enough time to finish this week's entry until later today. But enough of the past, let’s get on to the present shall we?

As my readers know, I love books. If anyone trapped me in the Pandorica or on an island and filled it with books, I’d be content until I felt like escaping.

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What? It's opening? Forget that, I'm still on Act II of Hamlet.

While I have read tons of books, it’s always hard for me to select my favorite one. Asking me to decide what my favorite book is, is like trying to choose between puppies or kittens: it’s just not possible.  However, I often find that thousands of book titles emerge in my head, and battle for the title of being my favorite book. Macbeth tries to murder the competition while Shibumi fights with The Coachman Rat. It’s a giant literary mess that my mind goes through every time that question is proposed. Yet through the quarrels one book always seems to emerge unscathed. This surviving book is none other than Robin McKinley’s Beauty. 

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Not only was this McKinley’s first retelling but it was her debut book. Published in 1993, Beauty is a re-imagining of Beauty and the Beast but with some changes. For starters, the story is told by our Belle character, Beauty. However, it doesn't begin with her singing about her hometown or entering the Beast's palace. Instead it starts with her telling the audience about her childhood and growing up to be a scholarly plain Jane. From her narration we also receive details about her family, especially her siblings, Grace and Hope as well as Beauty herself.  

Another change in Beauty is that the readers never receive a fleshed out description of the Beast character. I enjoyed this greatly because it allows the imagination to do some creating. We can personalize this Beast to how we please as the story goes on. The details of the palace and the vague images of the Beast help us to understand what type of person he is.

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I don't know about you guys, but the Beast comes off as Jack Skellington to me. Tall, immortal, intelligent. Come on, what Beauty doesn't love that?

Since this was McKinley’s first book, there are a few flaws. One issue is that Grace and Hope sometimes feel like the same person. They are easily interchangeable but become more defined with the challenges they face. The second flaw I find is the ending. While I won’t spoil it for you, I will say that it feels very rushed when compared to the rest of the book. Beauty is drawn out, pinpointing each detail about everything, fleshing out the characters, and creating magnificent imagery. When it comes to the end, it’s only in two to three pages where everything major happens.  I feel as though that the events that happen at the end should have been given the same, slow churned experience.

But what I enjoy the most about Beauty is that it has a lesson that can be taught throughout the years. It teaches readers to accept yourself and be yourself, even when you undergo change. This change could be for the better or the worse but in the end, you will still be you. There can only be one you in this universe; no one else can replicate you because they do not have the same qualities that only you have. You must accept yourself and be yourself to your full extent.

Growing up, Beauty accepts herself as the less attractive member of the family who constantly reads. She is thirsty for knowledge and absorbs it like a sponge takes in water. At the palace, she begins to change, and deny mental aspects of herself she discovers with the aid of the Beast. As she sees more of herself, she still remains the same clever, intelligent, and logical woman.

I give this book five out of five stars because of its lesson, its attention to detail and depth, and its ability to stay true to the original story of Beauty and the Beast while giving it a new light. Beauty and the Beast has always been my favorite fairy tale and this book does an excellent job of retelling it.  

We All Have Scissorhands

Thank God it’s Friday because here’s a new entry of The Magical Mystery Blog.

I’m sure most of you are familiar with the famous movie director, Tim Burton. Mr. Burton has created classic hits like Mars Attacks, Vincent, and Corpse Bride. He has even aided in the production of other movies like James and the Giant Peach and The Nightmare Before Christmas. Growing up, I wasn’t too fond of the strange director and producer until I hit my teenage years Or as everyone remembers these years as, the time when puberty struck and life was a mixed up, muddled up, shook up world.

Needless to say, I was in that same boat of confusion. At the age of thirteen I finally watched The Nightmare Before Christmas and was completely fascinated by this director’s work. I loved his work so much I started to watch other movies created by him, including Edward Scissorhands.

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Edward Scissorhands is the story of an Avon saleswoman (Peg Boggs) discovering a leftover, unfinished invention in a deceased inventor’s palace. The invention is none other than Johnny Depp with scissors for hands. Intrigued and concerned by this man made man, Mrs. Boggs invites Edward to stay with her in her cheery little neighborhood.

The rest is a cause and effect story of what happens when you try to introduce something different and new to a town that likes an unchanging routine. How it not only effects the people in that specific location but the lengths they go to, to use this new person to their means. Only then do they reject him for the “wrongs” he has committed, when it was their doing from the start. In the end, they just shrug it off as if nothing ever happened, and return to their daily ritual.

This movie is a treat for anyone who wants to step inside the world of Tim Burton’s early years. As for myself, I've watched this film at every chance I could get because it’s my favorite Burton flick. However, as the years rolled on I began to realize a few things about it.

              1)      It’s easily relate-able to everyone - when I originally viewed this movie, I could easily understand it because I was an outcast much like Edward Scissorhands. I had just transferred from Catholic to public school at that time and despite trying to put my best foot forward, it failed in the end.

At first I didn't realize it, but as I grew older I began to see that everyone could relate to this movie. You may find that notion insane because when people think ‘Tim Burton movies’ they immediately imagine the gothic and/or emo kids who blast Slayer and wear spikes on every single article of clothing they own.

With Edward Scissorhands I find that people can relate to this film because at some point in our lives, everyone is Edward Scissorhands. You’re the new kid changing (or starting) school and know no one, you’re the new person in the office and don’t know how things are. You're strange to the new town, school, or workplace because you're new and different. Some kindhearted people will take you in, show you around, and make sure you're all right. However, there are those out there who will use you to their benefit. It happens to everyone in life, just as it did in Edward Scissorhands.

Even Burton himself has said that he was Edward Scissorhands. In fact, he had created Edward long before the movie was even made.

             2)      The inspiration – in the time that Mr.Burton made this film, he was an unknown producer and director who was still making a mark in the world. He wanted to show Hollywood a new lease on life through his style, stories, and ideas. As a teenager he often drew various things and Edward was one of them. Edward was drawn as a representation of himself growing up and even the film was a symbolization of Burton's time growing up. This movie was an outward expression of Burton’s means of finding himself in the world as the outcast he was.

              3)      The meaning of the end – SPOILER ALERT.

THE FOLLOWING IS A MASSIVE

SPOILER TO EDWARD

SCISSORHANDS. IF YOU HAVE NOT

SEEN IT YET, PLEASE DO NOT READ

ON.


When I viewed this movie, I honestly did not expect to bawl at the end. But I understood why I cried and called Kim Boggs (Winona Ryder’s character) a bitch.

flicker.com
Get your hands off my man, woman!

It was because she tarnished my hopes for a happy ending for this movie by leaving Edward  alone in the inventor's palace. I was rooting for the underdog in this film so that their romance could blossom and face the challenges of having a partner with scissorhands. It would be something different as opposed to your standard boyfriend/girlfriend relationships.

I was hoping for them to be together forever because it would bridge the gap between the strange and the normal. I believed that if that chasm could never be filled in life, then at least let me have it from a movie I enjoy. This was not the case but then again, I’m rather glad Burton did not give his audience a joyful reprise.


What he gave the audience was life. There will always be the outcasts in life that no one wants to bond with because they interrupt the daily routine. But in the world there are those like Kim, Peg, and the rest of their family who embrace those who are different from them. When Kim sacrificed her future with Edward, she broke the possible idea of bridging the gap between the different and the routine. She could have stayed with Edward and explained what had happened to the crowd but they would have assumed that Edward started it and would have still considered him a villain. Kim knew he was never an enemy to the neighborhood although they believed otherwise. 

Well that about wraps up this week's blog entry. For my readers, I ask you a question: what did you think about the ending to Edward Scissorhands? Would you have preferred a happy ending, why? Or did you like it the way it was and why?

Just a Mad Man With a Box

Greetings everyone and welcome to this week’s entry of The Magical Mystery Blog.

This weekend is a weekend that has geeks, nerds, sci fi lovers, and many others buzzing like wasps.  On Sunday August 4^th, 2013 we will find out who will play the twelfth Doctor in the Doctor Who series. For those of you who are unaware to this fantastic series – what is wrong with you? Seriously, go watch it you will not regret it.

It’s basically about an alien traveling in a time machine to various eras, worlds, and even alternate dimensions. This series originated in the United Kingdom but eventually gained more popularity with every episode. It was also aired in the Americas along with other nations. It is considered one of the longest running science fiction series and originally started in the 60s with William Hartnell as the first Doctor.

So far in the series there have been eleven Doctors with the new one regenerating onto our television screens on Christmas Day 2013. Below are the top twelve reasons why everyone should be excited for this new Doctor.

           1)      New Doctor – we have a new Doctor! New Doctors are always fun because it’s like meeting a new friend. They have their quirks, their easily identifiable appearance, and special qualities that make them who they are. Every Doctor has their unique look based on their clothes and overall facial and body features. For example, the tenth Doctor has a pompadour haircut while the fifth Doctor wears a celery stick on his jacket lapel. Sometimes a piece of clothing will become a constant joke or trademark of the character throughout the series. The tenth Doctor insisted his jacket was given to him by Janis Joplin while the eleventh Doctor has claimed that bow ties are cool.

The new Doctor will have a specific outfit he wears along with a distinctive look.

           2)      New sonic screwdriver – with almost every new Doctor there is a new sonic screwdriver. The sonic screwdriver is the Doctor’s tool he uses to analyze life forms, examine materials, repair things, and many other actions. However, it cannot interact with wood. Each sonic screwdriver is unique in appearance, just like the Doctor. The tenth Doctor’s sonic screwdriver is silver, sleek, and has a blue tip. The eleventh Doctor’s sonic screwdriver is a copper shade with a green glow and is a bit bulky.  The new Doctor’s sonic screwdriver could be something we have not seen yet.

           3)      New food –as mentioned each Doctor is unique. This includes their appearance, voice, personality, and even food. Each Doctor has a certain food that they enjoy devouring. The fourth Doctor’s favorite food was Jelly Babies (think gummy bears), the tenth Doctor’s favorite food was cookies, and the eleventh Doctor’s favorite food is fish fingers and custard. Obviously the food can be something ordinary like cookies or something strange like fish fingers and custard. This new Doctor’s favorite food could be a common snack or a meal we’d never think of like bacon wrapped Twinkies. ….what? It could happen.

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Behold the artery clogging goodness....

The food also becomes a part of a running joke throughout the Doctor’s time in which, if the moment is right, they will bring up the food, or even be seen eating it at one time or another.

          4)      Possible gender change – the Doctor has many regenerations, all of which have been male thus far. However, it is possible for him to transform into a woman, but it has never happened. The closest thing we have seen to a female Doctor is the Doctor Donna from the tenth Doctor’s special End of the Universe. With every regeneration, the Doctor takes on new strands of DNA shaping the gender, hair, body, and even skin color. While we’re on skin color….

         5)      Possible skin color change – a while ago various web sites posted lists of actors they would like to see become the next Doctor. Among the selected performers were a few with different skin tones. Up until now all of the Doctors have been Caucasian males. It is extremely possible for the next Doctor to be tan, dark skinned, or another shade due to the regeneration process.

         6)      He could finally be ginger – there is an ongoing joke throughout the Doctor Who universe in which the Doctor has always wanted to be ginger. Ginger is another term for red head but so far, the Doctor has not achieved those glorious locks of crimson hair.  Maybe this new Doctor will finally be a red head. Again, the closest thing we have had to a ginger haired Doctor is Doctor Donna from the episode, End of the Universe.

         7)      New companion – every Doctor has one or more companions. At times throughout the series, the Doctor will even go on adventures by himself or be separated from his companion. The eleventh Doctor had Amy and Rory, a young couple before they met their tragic end. This Doctor also had River Song, a sexy professor who loved the Doctor dearly. Sometimes the companions turn into love interests, like Rose Tyler with the 10.5 Doctor (a clone of the original tenth Doctor who was part human/part alien). With the new Doctor, he (or she) could receive a new companion or stick with the current companion, Clara Oswald until her time runs up.

          8)      New villains – each episode of Doctor Who involves the Doctor running into some sort of villain. Some of the enemies are always returning like the Cybermen, Daleks, and Weeping Angels. Others are new to each Doctor like the Silence to the eleventh Doctor and the Vashta Nerada to the tenth Doctor. The ideas for foes are endless, especially when it comes to Doctor Who. It’s amazing to see what the creators invent for the Doctor to fight. Who knows what evil doers the new Doctor will encounter?

          9)      New Tardis interior – sometimes when a Doctor regenerates they also receive a new Tardis theme. The Tardis (Time And Relative Dimensions In Space (also known as Sexy)) is the time travelling machine that the Doctor roams around in. Over the years, it has been given tons of makeovers. The current look is lonely and cold with the Doctor's companions' names written in his native alien writing.

With the new Doctor inhabiting the Tardis, he (or she) may receive a new Tardis interior changing the somber tones of silver and grey into something brighter or darker.

          10)   The return of old friends – overtime the Doctor has made many friends like Captain Jack Harkness, the Brigadier, the Face of Boe, and many others. These friends would pop in for an episode or two, solve a problem with the Doctor (or were a victim of a crisis that only the Doctor could rescue them from), and leave just as they came.  Since the tenth Doctor, we have not seen Captain Jack Harkness or the Face of Boe appear in any of the episodes. Maybe with the new Doctor we would see some old friends come back for a few episodes with the Doctor.

           11)   New introduction – as a way of regenerating, the producers give the Doctor a new television introduction. The classic theme music is kept but the title sequence is different. The ninth and tenth Doctors' openings were kept the same but the eleventh Doctor’s sequence was changed at least once or twice throughout his time. When the new Doctor comes to life, he (or she) may receive a different opening.

           12)   The End of Doctor Who – the Doctor is only allowed twelve regenerations in which he starts off appearing elderly and slowly descends into youth. While he looks young, he is actually quite old; over 1000 years plus to be exact. However, I remember hearing that twelve is the base number of regenerations for the Doctor but he can keep regenerating many more times afterwards. However, it is a matter of what the writers will do. If they choose to stick to the original limit of twelve regenerations then the entire series will end. But if they decide to go beyond the twelve regenerations, they can continue the series, and the stories of the Doctor.  

      

       As mentioned before, on August 4th on BBC America at 2 pm (Eastern Time) fans across the nation will see the new actor who will play the twelfth Doctor. It will be a half hour to hour program featuring the performer along with some other surprises. For Britain, the reveal will be featured on BBC One at 7 pm (GMT). Until then, Geronimo. 

Be Our Guest

Greetings everyone and welcome to another edition of Disney Magic Monday.

As the day grows later, the stomach grows hungrier. One glance at a clock and suddenly it’s supper time. This week I will be tackling the best moderately priced, table service restaurants throughout the parks. I’m only highlighting these in this entry because in the weeks to come I will be featuring the best counter service places and expensive eateries. I also find that more families attend the moderately priced restaurants to not only have a nice night out but to squeeze in a few souvenirs for the trip home. 

Just one more pair of mouse ears....

Reservations are highly recommended for these restaurants so it’s best to make them before you go. Most of these places also accept the Disney Dining Plan so prepare to come on an empty stomach and eat to your heart’s content. 

First up, the Magic Kingdom.

      1)      Tony’s Town Square – on any bella notte, you can have Italian dishes at this restaurant based on the Disney classic, Lady and the Tramp. Located next to the Exposition Hall near the entrance of the Magic Kingdom, I personally recommend the classic lasagna dish for dinner and the Pistachio Crème Brulee for dessert. It sounds strange but it will create stars in your eyes and a place in your heart.

      2)      Be Our Guest – put this new restaurant’s service to the test, believe me everything here is delicious. I've heard gratuitous reviews about this place and based on the appearance and menu I can trust them. However, I was conflicted whether to put this one in the expensive restaurant entry or today’s entry. I put it here because it has moderately priced dishes with the exception of one pricey dish – much like you would find at any other restaurant.

Seated in the New Fantasyland you dine in the Beast’s ballroom, West Wing, or the Rose Gallery with the master roaming around every so often.  This restaurant also doubles as a counter service area during lunch time. While I haven’t dined here yet, I've heard positive notes about the Sauteed Shrimp and scallops.

Second, Downtown Disney. I am including this one because it houses tons of moderately priced, table service restaurants.

      3)      Crossroads at the House of Blues – as a Jersey girl, I've been to Atlantic City’s House of Blues. That seaside version of the famous restaurant is nothing when compared to the one in Downtown Disney. I’m not sure what it is to be honest but the food is amazing and it has become a family tradition to eat here every year. I would always order what I call the Triple Soul Dinner which was a combination of their Margarita Pizza, Sweet Potato fries, and Cornbread with maple syrup. However, since my last visit in 2009 the House of Blues menu has changed just a tiny bit to add some Mexican flare. They now serve quesadillas, tacos, and other traditional dishes. This restaurant is across from Cirque du Soleil La Nouba (also known as the giant white tent) in the West Side of Downtwon Disney.

      4)      Cap’n Jack’s – feel like getting high tonight? You’ll receive a highly enjoyable plate of food and service at this restaurant. Located in the Marketplace on the docks, this is your typical seafood restaurant. Rest assured though they do serve pasta, chicken, and other non-sea based foods. They make a fantastic pina colada (virgin or dirty) and I highly recommend that.

      5)      Bongo’s Cuban Café – this restaurant is for the daring, the adventurous, and the different. Across from Something Silver in the West Side of Downtown Disney, this restaurant also doubles as counter service at lunch. Featuring a vast amount of Cuban foods and a few bars, you’ll be having the time of your vacation. Personally I recommend the arroz con pollo which comes with a side of plantains and saffron yellow rice.

Third, up is Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

      6)      Sci Fi Dine in Theater – you don’t need the DeLorean to go back to the 1950s but you do need reservations. Seated at the end of Commissary Lane near Muppet Vision 3D, you’ll be transported to the 50s by way of old clips, traditional American food, and servers in roller skates. On a large screen, black and white movie trailers, commercials, and cartoons play for your entertainment.  This year they updated their menu while keeping some of their old dishes. Personally I recommend the fried dill pickles and the All American Picnic Burger.

       7)      Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano –  know what’s good? Pizza. Know what’s even better? Brick oven pizza and that’s exactly what you get at Mama Melrose’s. Brick oven pizzas add an overall soft smokiness to the edible disk with a nice crunch. Of course this little restaurant offers other classic Italian dishes at a moderate price. You can find this seemingly small eatery next to the Premiere Theater, just behind Muppet Vision 3D.

Fourth is EPCOT.

      8)      The Coral Reef – this restaurant is a good catch or a sinker but based with my experiences and reviews, it’s usually a good catch. Located in The Seas with Nemo and Friends, you’ll be surrounded by tanks filled to the brim with fish (and possibly your dinner). You’ll feel as though you’re dining in an octopus’ garden with a seafood based menu that has a few non-fish dishes  I personally recommend the coral reef lobster orecchiette pasta. It’ll have you diving under the sea for more.

      9)      Tutto Italia Ristorante – or in English, “All Italian Restaurant”. Originally this restaurant was Alfredo’s Italian Ristorante but it just received a new look and title. The menu appears to be the same from when I went during Alfredo’s era. Located in the Italy section of Epcot’s World Showcase, this restaurant is nothing but Italian dishes. Personally I suggest the cannoli or mocha tiramisu for dessert and the gnochetti for dinner. Mangiate mi amici!

      10)   Teppan Edo – in the mood for fast food for dinner? Watch as a master chef prepares your Japanese dinner before you in this classic hibachi restaurant located in the Japan section of the World Showcase. Very clean cut and sleek, the chefs will stun you with their cooking shows, and delight you with dinner. This menu is unique because it has a little bit of everything, even vegetables for non-meat lovers. As a big fan of meat and chicken though, I highly recommend the Tori dish which is chicken breast with seasonal vegetables, udon noodles, and steamed rice.

      11)   Rose & Crown Pub & Dining Room – pull up a chair in this classic English restaurant found in the United Kingdom section of the World Showcase. The food here is nothing but English which can be a bit dull in comparison to other foods but it is quite delectable. Personally I suggest the slow cooked chicken curry which is mix of both English and Indian cultures.  That way you get a bite of something different from two exotic lands.

      12)   Restaurant Marrakesh – dinner and a show can be found at this Moroccan restaurant located in the Moroccan part of the World Showcase. You’ll be treated as royalty when you feast at this lantern lit eatery. The menu here features classic Moroccan dishes and during your meal, you are treated to the divine belly dancers of Restaurant Marrakesh. I highly recommend the chicken kebabs with the combination appetizer for two and the Moroccan symphony for dessert.

Lastly, there’s the Animal Kingdom.

      13)   The Rainforest Café – I put this one here because you can find it in this park and in Downtown Disney. Surrounded by the sounds and sights of the jungle, your menu is as extensive as the Amazon rain forest. The only downside to this place is that it does not accept the Dining Plan but other than that, it’s a terrific eatery. Found in the entrance of Animal Kingdom you cannot miss the welcoming eyes of animals surrounding the classic logo. For a spicy dish, I suggest the Brave New World entree which is smoky chicken with a variety of cheeses and barbecue sauce.

     

We've come to the conclusion of our theme park feasts. Next time you go to Disney, don’t forget to reserve a spot at any of these moderately priced table service restaurants. Once again feedback and followers are welcome. If you want me to highlight any other Walt Disney World related matter, please leave a comment. Until then, all you need is faith, trust, and pixie dust to make your dreams come true.