The 'FRIENDS' Formula...

Hello, again, people of the Internet!

After a busy few days rushing around, frantically, trying to get the bulk of 'necessities' I will need for Uni, I am taking the time to relax with a new blog post. So here it is!

In watching sitcoms and comedy shows recently, I have discovered in many cases a strong parallel can be drawn between what is shown on comedy television today, with the much-loved show 'FRIENDS' that ran from 1994 until 2004. However, as one of my personal favourites, it is far from a negative to see the blatant inspiration David Crane and Marta Kauffman's show has had on this television genre. I literally grew up with 'FRIENDS', watching it whilst I was too young and probably far too early compared to what was appropriate. Nevertheless, it is undeniable that 'Friends' will always 'be there for you', whether its appreciated or not, as storylines reminiscent of the sitcom's own episodes, arise in more modern and recent shows. Below are a few examples of links and interactions between recent sitcoms and 'FRIENDS' that I find particularly interesting. Read and enjoy!

How I Met Your Mother (2005-2014)

     Possibly, when discussing the links between 'HIMYM' and 'FRIENDS', the most significant similarities reside in the male characters. For example, Ted Mosby (portrayed by Josh Radnor) is a somewhat 'geeky' character. With a boring job as an architecture professor and an 'on-off relationship' with character Robin (COBIE SMOULDERS!!), Ted Mosby is almost a mirror reflection of 'Friends' Ross Gellar (David Schwimmer). Ross Geller, also a 'Star Wars' fan, similarly has a job as 'Professor of Palaeontology', and has an almost comical endless string of failed relationships, specifically three divorces. Importantly, there is also the first renowned 'on-off relationship' with Rachel (Jennifer Aniston) stretching over all seasons. Both characters are portrayed as highly intellectual, the classic sitcom convention seen in how this intelligence often generates humour when the characters are socially isolated and differ from the norm, thus consequently made fun of. Ross can be considered the inspirational template for Ted Mosby as a character. 

     Furthermore, Barney Stinson (Neil Patrick Harris) became 'HIMYM's' 'ladies-man' and main comic relief whenever the drama threatened to suffocate the lighthearted appeal of the sitcom genre. Using significant charm to deceive vulnerable women, Barney emulates the incorrigible Joey Tribbiani (Matt LeBlanc) and his many 'one-night stands' with women. Joey's catch phrase "How you doin'?", becomes an instance of dialogue that has invaded Western English slang and vernacular. Both characters can be considered devices to offer breakaway humour, often establishing a subsidiary plot to the story. On the other hand, both are actually given more depth in later episodes. It seems that the aspects that made 'HIMYM' as a sitcom greatly appreciated amongst fans of the genre, can be derived or at least were based upon the style of 'FRIENDS'. Down to each characters' personality, it can be seen how the success of 'FRIENDS' has very literally moulded, if not the whole sitcom genre, then the basic conventions of 'HIMYM'. No character arc rises above any other in importance, both shows are clearly centred on equal friendship. Whether it the setting of 'Central Perk' or 'MacLaren's Pub', Manhattan offered the perfect city for both shows; a city of possibilities was depicted, first in 'FRIENDS', where numerous opportunities for humour were seen and available to the writers.

 Happy Endings (2011-2013)

     Before its cancellation, 'Happy Ending's greatly resembled the earlier sitcom of 'FRIENDS', a fact it did not attempt to hide or shy from. I could discuss numerous sitcoms that emulate 'FRIENDS', for example a sick Bernadette (Melissa Rauch) in bed with husband Howard (Simon Helberg) in episode 'The Re-Entry Minimisation of 'The Big Bang Theory' (2007-), reflecting Monica (Courteney Cox) and Chandler (Matthew Perry) in 'The One with Rachel's Sister'. However, in choosing 'Happy Endings', my attempt at highlighting that a pseudo 'FRIENDS' formula has been created within the sitcom genre, is much more clear. One only has to watch, season 2 episode 4 of 'Happy Endings' dubbed 'Secrets and Limos', to see how the creators 'own up' to their similarities with their more popular predecessor. With dialogue, such as 'Don't patronise me Monica!', the creators have blatantly played upon the undeniable comparisons viewers often make between shows, sitcoms specifically. Any fan of 'FRIENDS' would be crazy to deny giving this show a chance, simply because it was cancelled. The show begins as a wedding collapses, as with Rachel in 'Friends', not just to capitalise on the popularity of the earlier sitcom, but also to seemingly begin where romantic comedies normally finish. The sitcom has an increasingly modern atmosphere and tone when compared to 'FRIENDS' directly. 

      This show is worth the chance, seemingly offering a more 'down to earth' and 'real' representation of young adults. As expected of modern media, due to 'scopophilia' or the 'pleasure derived from looking at beautiful people', the cast is unrealistically beautiful, however they are not all surviving in luxury in one of the most expensive cities in the world either, as sometimes in 'FRIENDS'.

Now, the aim of this post is not to accuse all recent sitcoms of being pale imitations of the earlier 'FRIENDS', lacking any originality and just copying humour already seen. Instead I simply propose an idea that the cultural impact of 'FRIENDS' is much wider then many people initially believe. It is undeniable that 'FRIENDS' was an incredibly successful series. 'The Last One' alone, had 52.5 million viewers and all the cast were paid $75,000 per episode in season three, $85,000 in season four, $100,000 in season five, rising to an incredible $1 million by seasons nine and ten. Aniston, Cox, and Kudrow became the highest paid TV actresses of all-time. However, recent sitcoms do not reflect 'FRIENDS' merely to capitalise on its success and popularity. Simply, the modern sitcom genre has been influenced greatly by Crane's creation. 'FRIENDS' has set the precedent of 'being funny'; shows only resemble the series because it found what was funny amongst viewers, the formula for success, and exposed it to the world. Conventions may change, 'canned laughter' VS live audiences or the 'feminisation' of male characters, but 'FRIENDS' hit on something deeper and more culturally funny. Ensemble sitcoms now know what they must do to reflect this humour. When they find the right cast...the rest simply follows.

Thank you for reading! Until next time, keep on watching random stuff...go for all opportunities offered to you...and just keep smiling.

NOTE: Images are not mine. 

I am off to University. It is Fantastic!

Hello People of the Internet!

   I am not afraid to share that it has been a completely crazy week, a welcome break from the monotonous cycle of waking up, grabbing the laptop and situating myself on the sofa (read 'training myself in the fine art of becoming a couch potato). On Thursday 'Results Day' finally arrived; the period of endless tension and waiting was ended once and for all. It is a welcome relief for many people, whether they achieve the results they hoped for or at the very least are given the chance to plan for the future and begin to take a different path. It must be remembered that, whatever happens, is meant to happen, one must remember that a specific University, one you have been aiming for throughout college, may not be the only route to reach set goals. If a University rejects you solely on grades, maybe it was not meant to be. More than likely, someone will always end up on the path they are meant to take, if you enter Clearing for another University, maybe it will serve you better than your original plan. The 'problem', fantastic thing about life, is that there is an endless world of opportunity out there for everyone. Providing you 'put the work in' and 'don't give up hope', very cliche I know, no closed door completely means the end of a goal or dream. Obstacles should only make us more determined.

I am a slight hypocrite I suppose, having fortunately been able to 'achieve' the University I aimed for originally but that does not mean that there was and still won't be obstacles. Of the five universities I applied for, one did in fact reject my application and though the course offered there sounded great, I have decided the rejection simply does not matter. I still managed to choose a wonderful University and received an Unconditional offer prior to Results day, and will now show those whom said 'no', what I can do and what I am capable of. I am not perfect, far from it, but I am hard-working. I know that wherever I end up in the end I will undoubtedly try my hardest and achieve my upmost best. For now it is time to have fun 'preparing for University' i.e. I am going to buy so much awesome stuff!!

My education, up to this point, has been a long road, probably focused on grades more so than is possibly healthy. Specifically, recalling my first year of college, I remember suddenly being asked, put on the spot, to think about what I wanted to achieve by the time I leave, and more importantly, what I envisioned I would be doing after college. Of course, for me, I knew the goal was always going to be University, but in terms of a career and the further future, I think that was always more questionable, shrouded in a blurry plan and vague idea. I remember in year 10, early year 11, I wanted to be a paediatric doctor aided by the fact I was always good at the sciences. However, one day, I just woke up and realised my heart wasn't in it. So at college I took four A levels that simply interested me; History, English Literature, Biology (I couldn't give up all sciences) and Media Studies, with an EPQ in the History of Horror. If I am to offer any real advice it is to pursue your interests and not what you feel are expectations. So I let go of my doctor 'dream' and just realised if I ever wanted to be truly happy I had to aim for the Media industry. Films and TV will always captivate me above all else. Now, two year later and five A*'s, I am off to study Film at University. I do not believe I am ever particularly the smartest person in any room. I am just determined and pursuing something I am passionate about. Taking subjects I was interested in, wanted to excel at, is undoubtedly the reason I got the grades I wanted. Looking back, to some degree I enjoyed every essay and every project.

In my opinion, one of the most important factors in deciding which University to go to, is going to the open days on offer. When you walk around the campus, if you feel comfortable in the atmosphere and can imagine yourself buying coffee from the campus cafe or see yourself reading in the library, then it is the place for you! On my interview day, at my future University, I felt comfortable. It may not be the highest in league tables for my chosen subject of Film but it does not matter. I liked it there so I am determined to succeed there.

The strange thing about pursuing Media and falling into a Film degree is that many people seem shocked it is what I have chosen with the grades I achieve. But, at the end of the day, grades do not scratch the surface of any person or life in general. There is so much more to success then grades and in my opinion, to be successful, I had to be content and happy in the subject I chose to explore further at Uni. Sometimes I struggle more with creativity, whether it writing a short story for English coursework or editing a TV sequence for Media coursework, but it is that struggle that urges me on and not the grades that dictate me (though getting the grades I aimed for was my personal perfect way to close the college chapter of my life). Without this epiphany, to pursue my interests in college, the position and future ahead of me would be completely different. Yes, being a doctor could be more secure and less tenuous or competitive then the Media industry but, it would not challenge me creatively on a daily basis, or satisfy my need to release my imagination and break the cycle of monotony life can sometimes become.

Results day arrived this year, and like every time I prepared for the worst. I second guessed myself as I always do, telling everyone that I really thought I hadn't done as well this time and that the exams felt incredibly 'different' or 'difficult' this year. This was not to purposefully try and project a fake facade of modesty, I really felt worried that I had not achieved my personal 'grade goals'. Stress does some crazy things and I thought it had completely messed up some of my exams. All in all, I was happy and can now finally focus on University without the worry, at the back of my head, that I had not achieved my personal goals and grades!

If any of you have managed to keep reading this post, then you deserve a medal or something. At the end of the day, I guess the message I am trying to present is that the only thing that matters, in deciding your future path, is you! Your interests. Your happiness. Your personal goals. Do not compare yourself to other's standards or let grades and a certain University dictate to you who you are through rejection. It is up to you!

"Who decides why we live and what we'll die to defend? Who chains us? And who holds the key that can set us free...it's you. You have all the weapons you need. Now fight!" (Sucker Punch 2011)

Mini Review: Fantastic Four (2015)

Disappointment. The only positive I can possibly think to say, is that the world of the 'Fantastic Four' benefits greatly from more modern visual effects and technology, compared to the original films. Apart from that, I am afraid to say that everything in the original films outstrips the more recent adaptation, whether it the cast, writing or action. The last fighting sequence lasts no more then what seems like 10 minutes and thus the film leaves an unsatisfying bitter taste in the mouth of those who view it. I will always back the superhero/comic book genre of film, however it feels like this release was only created in order to capitalise on the recent popularity of superheroes, in a bid to achieve more profit. If you are interested in the 'Fantastic Four' comics, I would stick to the original films, if you have to watch the more recent release, try and merge the films together in your mind. Impose the light hearted humour and awesome action of the previous creations, into the more updated visual world.  

Note: Image is not mine but those above review are. ;) My images are to remind you there is always 'light at the end of the tunnel...a path or road to travel'! 

Goodbye! Once again, keep on watching random stuff...go for all opportunities offered to you...and just keep smiling. 

Xmen: Rogue Cut....quality VS quantity???

HI! HI! HI! people of the internet,

    Nerves are overtaking people! After pushing it back, probably more than I should have, I am finally learning to drive. I don't know what could possibly be worse, sitting in the car with a stranger, a socially awkward person's nightmare, or attempting to operate a car despite the fact I lack any sense of coordination. It is an interesting experience! Consequently, I have left this post for today to try and calm myself down; discussing films and TV to once again escape reality and take my mind off my impending lesson. I know I shouldn't be this nervous but oh well...that is just me.

Xmen Days of Future Past: Rogue Cut

      When discussing the recently released Rogue Cut edition of Xmen: Days of Future Past, one must question whether this edition is purely an additional release to raise profit or whether it acts as just another building block in constructing the admirable universe that the superhero genre has become under Marvel Entertainment. This question has arisen, comparable to that of Shakespeare's 'to be or not to be?', and it is probably one that will remain unanswered simply because of the fact the film is capable of fulfilling both objectives. The Rogue Cut only enhances the previous theatrical release by reintroducing Rogue (Anna Paquin) but at the same time also undoubtedly reinforces Marvel Entertainment's ability to obtain success almost effortlessly.

      Since the original release of Xmen: Days of Future Past, fans of the mutant heroes have yearned to see an extended version of the film, rumoured from the start to hold a substantial amount of footage cut from the cinematic version. Even before the release I can remember reading how most of Anna Paquin's scenes, barring that of an end scene showing the power-absorber happily reunited with fellow mutants in 'Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters', were removed. However, in being released almost a year later after the cinema version, the new edition always faced the danger of adding unnecessary scenes to an already convoluted film. The phrase 'Quantity VS Quality' comes to mind in relation to this film, more specifically are 'more scenes better' or simply just 'excessive'?
 
      Overall the majority of the film's narrative remains untouched and not dissimilar to the original cinematic version, a fact that makes me question the need to release a whole new version in the first place, for any other reason but with the aim to raise profits. However, despite this, the small differences help to flesh out background characters such as mutants like 'teleporter' Blink (Fan Bingbing) and Bishop (Omar Sy). More significant differences appear during the later half of the film's narrative, these changes adding much more to the film overall. A romantic exchange between Beast (Nicholas Hoult) and Mystique (JENNIFER LAWRENCE!!!) feels much more fluid and entwined with the untouched version. In my opinion, this scene above all else feels like it should have been included within the cinematic version. The scene not only adds credibility to Mystique's change in view, defiance of Magneto (Michael Fassbender), but also links with the romantic subplot in Xmen: First Class between these two characters. As a result, the universe is only further constructed; each film, every version, only injects more into the cinematic world created.

      Finally, it is not until the 'home stretch', that the 'Rogue Cut' begins to feature the titular mutant herself, and it is this separate character arc that most noticeably pushes the film away from its original theatrical release. Although the film's 'denouement' is almost reduced down to a dissatisfying pace by the introduction of this extra storyline, Rogue's rescue brings more evident excitement into the future scenes of the film, the majority of which were previously spent sitting in a room and waiting for sentinels to arrive. Instead of just highlighting the dire future awaiting the characters should they fail, Rogue's character arc ensures the future mutants are functioning devices within the overarching narrative. If nothing else Ian McKellen and Shawn Ashmore's extra scenes and screen time, brings much needed nostalgia to the film, aspects that hark back to the original Xmen films that I, myself, loved.

   Ultimately, whilst the extended scenes and dialogue in the Rogue Cut do not hinder the overall narrative or film franchise itself, the film is still plenty enjoyable, the extra aspects at the same time do not necessarily improve the film substantially. Simply, another version has just been introduced, becoming not a negative or a positive but something else to flesh out the growing superhero world. Whilst it is undeniable another version of any film will be introduced and created to extend the profit generated by a project, I believe that Marvel Entertainment has only created this extended version with the fans in mind. Whether they are disappointed with the lack of substantial difference to the cinematic version, or are actually satisfied, they still get to explore that little bit further into the comic-book movie world.

What you should be watching: TEEN WOLF SEASON 5

MTV's TEEN WOLF (Jeff Davis) has never failed to impress me and to this day still continues to captivate me as it did when I first recommended it eons ago. The series have become progressively darker since its inception and with the new introduction of villainous 'Dread Doctors' and their creepy, unhinged surgical 'chimeras', anyone interested in horror especially, as well as teenage drama more widely, would be a fool not to watch. Dylan O'Brien as Stiles Stilinksi specifically continues to impress. Whether it comedy or sombre drama the character, and actor, captures the audience. Overall, without any hesitation, I would seriously suggest you watch this show over Summer, if you have not begun already.

Thank you for reading and speak to you soon!
NOTE: Images are not mine :)

Reawakening this blog...

Long time no see, or speak, people of the internet!!!

It is undoubtedly time to inject some life back into this blog and, perhaps more importantly, some motivation back into myself. With University on my doorstep, literally less than two months away, it is time to immerse myself completely in the media industry and specifically the world I wish to dedicate myself to in the future. Whether it film, television or advertising, it is time I start up writing on this blog again more frequently...we will see how long I stay focused...I do not have much hope...I can be both equally absent-minded as I can be dedicated. 

For my first post I would like to share some print pieces I created in my first year of college for Media coursework. The brief or inspiration for the whole project was to create a crime/thriller hybrid film in which was heavily influenced by a film noir style. Consequently, my film idea 'Mistrust' was born; a gritty abduction or kidnapping themed narrative began to unfold in my mind. However, in choosing actors and a 'production team' from the industry itself and researching similar crime/thrillers such as Sam Mendes' 'Skyfall' or Christopher Nolan's 'Inception', I began to realise that the emotional stories depicted in crime thrillers are not entirely dissimilar to the tumultuous narratives found in horror films. Hence, as seen in the print work below, my 'crime thriller' became an amalgamation of crime, thriller and horror codes and conventions, all interlinked via the film noir style. It is an incredibly daunting thing, to share your own creations on the internet, leaving it at the mercy of the large outside world, but here they are. 

Truthfully, this small post is mainly to give me piece of mind that I am slowly refocusing on the blog again, as well as writing more generally. The next post, at the weekend, will actually begin to introduce reviews or a recommendation once again but, until then, I reassure myself, through posting these pictures, that I am still incredibly interested in the phenomena that the media industry has become. I remain infected by the 'madness of media' and truly obsessed with particular shows and films. When the Summer break arrives, the fantasy imagined includes endless days spent lounging in the sun, beaches galore and the formation of many new memories with friends to cherish. In reality so far, in my personal experience at least, 70% at least has in fact been spent lounging around binge watching films and endless television series. I have found new shows and films to love whilst also reawakening old obsessions. Note to self: revisiting old interests only resurrects the fanatic behaviour...not my best idea. 

Until the next post....keep watching random stuff...go for all opportunities offered to you...and just keep smiling!

I have put it off to the last moment but here it is..my print work from my first year coursework...I am pretty sure I am allowed to post this here...hopefully...so here it is. The images are copyright to me I guess...I own them and though I have included the names of actors, director Christopher Nolan and a production team collated from other works, that was only part of the project to justify choices inspired by similar crime thrillers. The actors, director, production team, 'Lionsgate' or reviewers are obviously not affiliated at all with the work..I wish they were but they are not at all...this is only a conceptual idea that interested me at the time. Importantly, a large inspiration for these pictures was the great Alfred Hitchcock. If you are interested follow this link to discover how 'Little Red Riding Hood' was capable of directly inspiring the crime thriller campaign I envisioned. 

http://the.hitchcock.zone/wiki/Monitor_(BBC,_05/Jul/1964)

The images include two teaser posters, one main poster and a DVD cover...enjoy!

Happy New Year!!!

Hello people of the Internet!!!

It has been an incredibly long time since my last post and I suppose it will be even longer still, because this will not count....I do not think this post is long enough to count! 

I just wanted to start of 2015 by posting HAPPY NEW YEAR WORLD! 

It would be nice to definitely know that this year will be the best ever and everything will be perfect, but I do not believe anyone is that lucky! Still, despite inevitable highs and lows to come, I for one think it is time I start embracing life and all its imperfections!! I wish everyone laughter, love and general happiness. 

My advice, find something that helps you smile, even when the stress builds up. This is a difficult world to live in, there is no denying it, but all you need is family, friends and laughter. TV, FOOD, FILMS AND NATURE (I love animals) are much appreciated also. 

I am off to University in the latter half of the upcoming year...and you know what...BRING IT ON! I really need to enjoy Life more...hopefully 2015 will bring this! 

P.S I would like to make all those much loved New Year's resolutions...to exercise more...eat heathier....but being perfectly honest, all I see for the majority of January at least....is chocolate, my sofa and TV Shows.

The Woman In Black 2 and Into the Woods are being released also so...need I say more!

HAPPY NEW YEAR! May it be Perfectly Imperfect and an awesome adventure!

Philosophical ramblings and Photography...

Hello people of the internet!

   Again, it has been a long time since my last post and for the 'billionth' time (....that doesn't seem like a real word) I apologise. I really wish I was able to post more frequently but with college work, it sometimes is just too difficult. Anyway, this post is slightly different in the fact that I will not be posting a review or recommendation as such, but just some photos I have taken in and around college instead. I am currently in the process of researching for some new television shows to watch, which actually sounds much more professional than it is. In reality, I am lazily lounging on my bed and stuffing my face with food whilst binge watching with frequent marathons of various series. The joys of escapism! So until something captures my interest, these photographs will be posted.

    Ultimately, I think what we can take away from this blabbering introduction, is that I have lost the ability to write coherently and probably need to sleep for the next century. If there is one thing I think I need to learn, something everyone should attempt to do even when they are consumed by stress, whether it college or general life as the culprit, is to relax. I know it is easier said than done, but if there is one thing I really believe in, is that people just need to enjoy life for what it is. Grasp any opportunities you can! As Emma Watson (sorry....I had to mention her....because she is AWESOME!!!) has recently said in her UN Feminist speech 'if not me...who?.....if not now...when?' Do not worry, I will contain myself and refrain from quoting anymore, however I urge you to ponder on this statement. I guess all I am trying to say....is make the most of life. Develop yourself as an individual and do not let work suffocate your creativity. Take the opportunities offered to you, and always follow the route that will make you happy and one that will inspire positivity in the world around you.
 
   I will stop all this pretentious philosophical rambling now and will leave you with some photos. I do not know what the weather is like where you are personally, but at the moment, in and around Cirencester, England....it is rubbish! The heavens have opened and decided to drown us! I managed to venture out into the wilderness....a strange world called 'Outside'....whilst the weather was still excellent. Consequently, I will leave you with some cool autumnal photos from  the area surrounding college, that I hope you appreciate. The day I have to apply to university is looming ever closer, hence the increased levels of stress and anxiety, thus I am really trying to develop my camera skills. So without further ado, take a gander at some of my nature snapshots...I hope they brighten your day for a least a little while.

....I know I said I wouldn't, but I leave you with one more interesting quote. Oscar Wilde stated 'To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all.' Ultimately, if nothing else, I hope this post has sparked people to relax and accept life for what it is. It may be stressful and difficult at times, but if you persevere and work hard, it is incredibly rewarding. You get out of life what you put in! I am trying my hardest 'to live' and not to just simply 'exist' and though I may get caught up in life's workload often, I am attempting to just be happy. I live through the camera, escaping into television and film to relax. Take these quotes and do what you will...do not just 'exist'...but 'live'.

Next post: The Flash (new CW television series....keeping with the recent comic book theme). 

Summer almost over....Marvel is just beginning!!!

Hello people of the internet!

It is funny how quickly the summer has flown by! For a minute there, I was wishing for college to arrive sooner (I was desperately bored) but now I dread the arrival of early mornings once again. The tedious routine of college is on the horizon and I wish I had posted more frequently across the summer break. But now, I must say goodbye to the lazy days and finish my summer reading (what can I say...being a slug and not getting up until late, was much more fun then college summer work....if not lacking in productivity). 

However, Summer is not over just yet!!!!! I have time to write another post and for this particular post, I am going 'super'.....because I want nothing more to develop superpowers...which will happen....I really want it to happen....

Guardians of the Galaxy: 

  This film is 'awesome'!!! A mix of 'awesomeness' and humour that firmly situates the film as a 'must-see' feature. I am not going to lie, however, and must admit the viewing experience was slightly tarnished by the fact I saw this film on the day before I was going to retrieve my exam results (picture a chipmunk....hyped up on caffeine....stuffing there face with popcorn....that is literally how nervous I was that day...). Even with that news hanging over my head, I think the film was extremely entertaining, falling only slightly short of the other Marvel films I love. I was not familiar with the 'Guardian' comics, probably why the film has not wormed its way into my heart alongside the numerous other superhero films. But in saying that, I definitely see 'something' in this film. The script is jam-packed with humour, yet this does not take attention away from the action scenes and high quality special effects. The CGI in this film is incredibly well formatted! A whole reality is created; the marvel universe extended with more detail and possibilities for future plot lines. Marvel seems to not only create a franchise and chain of movies, but its own interlinking world of superheroes. I love big blockbusters, simply for the fact that they have the ability to reach more people and create a reality that extends beyond the film screen. For a couple of hours, audiences can forget their own problems and share in the fantastical threats of the characters they love (I can normally delve into such a fictitious world and escape reality...that is if I am not already panicking about exam results...exam results that  decide my whole future). 

 Overall, Chris Pratt whom portrays Peter Quill(oh wait......sorry it is Star Lord), was a perfect choice for this film because he brings the humour needed; a humour that I have come to expect from Marvel movies after watching the Avengers film, which was much funnier than I originally expected! The ramshackle group includes Peter Quill....wait....Star Lord (Chris Pratt), Gamora (Zoe Saldana), Drax the Destroyer...slightly melodramatic (Dave Bautista), Groot (Vin Diesel) and Rocket....whom is not a rodent (Bradley Cooper). The interactions, between these characters, are perfect and make the story that more interesting. These 'superheroes' are not the clean cut or stereotypical hero characters. They all stray far from the archetype hero and delve into a pool of personality that is fresh; keeping the audience captivated for every minute...every second. 

I give this film a strong 4/5! It would be a full five, however I would like to watch the whole film again without the fear of my results ruining the 'viewing experience! I seriously recommend this film! So....'sinceriously' (guess the superhero connection) I urge you to try this film, even if you try to avoid large franchise films normally.

Captain America: The Winter Soldier 

   This film recently arrived on Blu-ray (as well as DVD) and you can bet I rushed to the nearest shop so that I could add it to my collection....I am cool like that! I remember watching this film in the cinema and being on the edge of my seat the whole way through....and this time, not because of of exam results being imminent.... Originally, I am sad to admit, I disregarded Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) because come on....when you are faced with a norse god (Thor) and an indestructible green 'thing' (Hulk)...you kind of ignore the superhuman. However, after watching this film, I changed my mind and have decided that Captain America is one of the coolest....he is literally an 'ice cube'!!! The whole storyline, of the film, was entertaining; the narrative fast paced and interesting right up to the last second (especially the credit scene....very interesting allusion to AVENGERS 2: AGE OF ULTRON). The chemistry between Steve Rogers and Natasha Romanoff aka Black Widow (portrayed by the amazing Scarlet Johansson) is incredibly entertaining. On top of this, including the inner workings of S.H.I.E.L.D, as a driving force for the film's narrative, was a smart idea and once again entertaining....I really need to extend my vocabulary...sorry.

This film is definitely a 5/5 and I would recommend anyone buy it...and watch it.....NOW!!...please... 

I think it is incredibly unlikely you would be disappointed in the film....I have watched it, in total, three times now, which I do not commonly do with films! Once again, I urge you to give this film a chance...

I urge people to give large franchises like this a chance because though they may not be the most artistically shot...or use innovative themes and camera work....these blockbusters have their own charm. They are powerful projects that can carry the world of comics to a much bigger audience...adding comedy....reiterating action and just being simply captivating! Give it a go!

Ending the superhero theme, I would like to suggest more things people should watch....

Extra:

   In honour of Tim Burton, whom I believe had his birthday yesterday...though I may be wrong, I would like to recommend people watch some of his highly imaginative works. First of all, for those animation enthusiasts, I would recommend you watch some of my personal favourite films. 'The Corpse Bride' and 'NightMare Before Christmas' are excellent films. I definitely prefer live action films but, it is undeniable, there is something special about the style of these stop motion features. The eerie yet funny and magical films are timeless and are worth a watch again and again. If you want something different to this, I thoroughly enjoyed 'Sweeney Todd: Demon Barber of Fleet Street' or 'Alice in Wonderland'. Both are opposite ends of the spectrum, but still equally enjoyable. 

Of course, it is extremely likely that you have already heard of and watched some of these films. I would actually be worried if you are a film enthusiast and you had not! However, in honour of this director and his incredibly interesting filming style, I would suggest watching one of his films in the next week. They are imaginative films and I envision myself continually watching them far into the future. 

Furthermore, more of a side note really, I have discovered it is Dylan O'Brien's birthday today. I love many television shows; no one single show being my favourite because, at the end of the day, they all offer the same entertainment and escapism. 

However, the MTV television show 'Teen Wolf' shocked me in how quickly I became invested in the narrative and characters. Stiles (Dylan O'Brien) is an extremely funny and expressive character; a character that makes this show unmissable (along with the rest of the cast of course). Dylan O'Brien has showed extreme talent in this show, portraying both a loveable side-kick and terrifying villain believably. I have recommended this show before, but wish to do so again because it has' everything'. I say that often, but have never meant it more than with 'Teen Wolf'. This show is an amalgamation of many genres, whether you want horror, action, comedy or romance! Every episode is shot like a small full-length film! It is great! So give it a go....and look out for Dylan O'Brien in the upcoming film 'Maze Runner'...another film that promises to be 'awesome'!!

And that is all...until the next post! Even if you have already watched all the suggestions, try and find some films or a television show to binge on. Over the last few days of Summer, find something to marathon watch; something you can enjoy and that can help you relax over the last few days..

NOTE: I apologise if this post seems too short! I am undertaking an EPQ and I am up to my eyeballs in Hitchcock and the horror genre in general. I hope to write a much longer, or at least more inspiring and 'entertaining', post in the near future. Also, unfortunately, images are not my own!!!!

I will write again soon....until then...goodbye internet!!! Relax and enjoy some media in the meantime!