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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-148101402014-11-27T04:53:03.947+02:00Pfangirl Through the Looking GlassFilm, comics, Tomb Raiding & Pop Culture obsessionPfangirlhttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-71449179929553557772014-11-19T08:30:00.000+02:002014-11-19T08:30:00.505+02:00Shake it off - the Gamergate version
I think I'm probably more in the closet about liking Taylor Swift's music than I am about liking girls.

But anyway. I am in love with Swift's latest single, Shake If Off, with its powerful "Fuck critics" message and dorky, self-deprecating music video. In fact, as it is, it's the perfect anthem for women who have been at the receiving end of Gamergate attacks.

This said, satirist Peter Coffin has upped the ante with this Shake It Off parody, rewritten to specifically tackle the Gamergate controversy - and what exactly Gamergaters are smoke-screening with their claims of "It's about ethics in games journalism."

Pfangirlhttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-20493623367208494022014-11-17T08:30:00.000+02:002014-11-17T08:30:02.694+02:00Giveaways and gamers doing good
There's little denying that the GamerGate controversy has done much to sour the public's perception of gamers - and, more widely, geek culture. Entitled. Abusive. Exclusionary. Looking at recent shenanigans it would be easy to view people who classify themselves as geeks as mean-spirited and self-absorbed.

Of course, this is far from the truth. Focusing on gaming for a second - which is currently the most maligned of the geek factions - there are enthusiast-run projects like Extra Life and Child's Play (not to mention industry/developer-supported projects like the Humble Bundle). In all of these cases, geeks have raised money for assorted charities; many with a child-focus.

Which brings us to The Enthusiasts Project from Reluctant Femme blogger and crafter Cassie Goodwin (@anwyn on Twitter). You can read all about the objectives of the Project in detail here, but in a nutshell, it intends to celebrate all fandoms and passionate individuals... while giving back to charity.

Book lovers, buy a Word Nerd pendant and 10% of the sale will go towards the Children's Book Council of Australia. Lovers of years gone buy, purchase a History Buff pendant and money will go to the National Museum of Oz. Gamers, get a Gamer Geek necklace and proceeds will be going to Extra Life. And so on... Plus, the Enthusiasts pendant and keyring series will be expanding further in 2015.

You can check out Cassie's Etsy Store here.

The great news is that you could win one of these pendants. Cassie is giving away 2 lots of store credit to the value of $33. Translation: 2 people could win a necklace of their choice, including shipping to anywhere in the world.

To enter the lucky draw, simply comment below this post with which pendant takes your fancy right now (you can always change your mind and customise your order later if you're a winner). For an extra entry into the draw, please tell me what you would like to see more of on my blog - e.g. reviews, comics, written commentary, video commentary. Let me know.

Entries close at midnight on 30 November 2014 (UTC time).

Make your pick and enter now below.
Pfangirlhttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-69879812662630407252014-09-29T08:51:00.002+02:002014-09-29T08:51:38.617+02:00So much funkier than "you wouldn't steal a car..."
I owe you all a blog post about my first ever cinema visit in Japan, when I got to FINALLY watch Guardians of the Galaxy. So, yeah, on that note I owe you all a film review as well...

In the meantime though, if you've never seen it before - I only experienced it for the first time last Tuesday - here is Japan's answer to the West's "You wouldn't steal a car..." anti-piracy ad.

As you can see, it enlivens a very stale message by injecting a hefty dose of Daft Punk-style funkiness, as well as all the expected Japanese WTF-ness.

For the record, you can watch the other 2 commercials in the series here. And, on the topic of Daft Punk, make sure you check out this clever tribute to the music act as well.

Pfangirlhttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-79973076526922058542014-09-15T09:00:00.000+02:002014-09-15T09:00:06.315+02:00Tomb Raider: A gaming industry allegory
Oh Christ, Noelle, ANOTHER Tomb Raider post? Seriously?!

Well, yes, actually. I really felt the need to write this in the aftermath of the latest, and possibly most terrible (to date) "Wominz are the DEVIL!!" furore to affect gaming.

It all started with an attack on game developer Zoe Quinn – for supposedly using sex with journalists to secure good review scores for her game – and then expanded to include Feminist Frequency media commentator Anita Sarkeesian, who is, of course, no stranger to troll targeting.

Various other industry figures, male but mostly female, who spoke out against #GamerGate harassment were also subject to abuse. Things just got worse and worse, culminating with women having to flee their homes because of assault threats. In addition, prominent gaming commentator and journalist Jenn Frank, along with a few other figures, implied that they will be quitting the industry because of the rampant, aggressive misogyny among gamers. They've had enough.

So what does this have to do with the 2013 Tomb Raider reboot?

Well, I believe that the game can be interpreted as an allegory for the current state of the gaming industry – specifically in terms of what female gamers are likely to experience at some point.

Let's look a little closer, shall we?

Lara Croft is a pretty, subdued, fairly normal 21 year old woman. She's a recent university graduate passionate about what she does and ready to make her mark. She's a tad stressed about the task facing her (her first expedition), but nonetheless she's eager to demonstrate her capabilities and earn respect on her own terms.

Even before she reaches her destination though, she's subjected to "What do you know? I have far more experience than you" comments from veteran archaeologist Dr Whitman, one of her professional heroes. Lara is hurt but argues back in defence of her theories. She vows to work harder.

One traumatic shipwreck and near-drowning later, Lara arrives on the lost island of Yamatai. For years it had been the place of her dreams – the place she has always wanted to discover. The reality though is a nightmare.

The island population is all-male. In this place cut off from reality and typical societal rules, women only exist to be used. They're sacrifices. Even the pivotal figure of Himiko, the powerful Sorcerer Queen who rules over the island, is a means to a goal. That goal being to get off the island.

Lara isn't a person – a thinking, feeling individual – to these literal madmen, many of whom have spent decades trying to survive in this harsh environment. Repeatedly, she's labelled an "outsider," a "little rat." Over the course of 12-15 hours of gameplay she gets pawed at, dismissed, beaten, shot at, laughed at and told to just go along with what the men want.

Is all of this sounding familiar?

Now Lara could curl up in a ball and cry as a result of this abuse. She could hide out silently in a cave and stay there in the hope of eventually being rescued from this island of misogynists. Certainly her treatment by the island inhabitants knocks her confidence, and time and time again she has to talk herself out of terror-triggered paralysis.

For the record, in case you want to argue that Tomb Raider is relentless misandry, there are good guys in the game too. Three white males do try to help Lara. All three die in the process though.

Two of the three are older father figures; men who view Lara as a surrogate daughter and want to protect her. The third is a different kind of White Knight – the type you are very likely to encounter in the gaming community every single day. Alex Weiss is around Lara's age, her friend and a computer nerd. He wears glasses, has an Esc key t-shirt, likes comics and conspiracy theories, and clearly he has designs on dating Lara. To this end, he decides to impress her with a little heroism of his own. Sadly, his efforts are misguided, cause more trouble than good and end with him dead. He does get a peck on the cheek out of it though.

While the men do help her at pivotal points, ultimately it's up to Lara save herself. She is transformed by her experiences on the island. There are some negative effects of course. The simple, innocent excitement she once had for her profession is forever tainted. "I hate tombs," she grumbles. Her personality darkens and she becomes more prone to violence and vengeance. Still, she doesn't give up. She takes all the abuse, the pain and the frustrating feeling of impotence at continually being victimised, and she funnels it into action.

Lara Croft takes a lickin' and keeps on kickin'.

Gratifyingly, Lara defeats her detractors through stealth, resourcefulness and cunning. Oh, and being a crack shot. From mocking her; refusing to take her seriously, her enemies come to fear her, shouting warnings to their brethren and fleeing on sight. Lara emerges from her Yamatai experience battered and scarred – but she's also finally unlocked her steely Survivor model and is ready for her next adventure.

With all this in mind, Tomb Raider 2013 can easily be interpreted as a satisfying empowerment fantasy for anyone frustrated by the continual escalating harassment of women online.

Through the game we follow a bullied young woman as she discovers her inner strength, grows in confidence and gets her own back against the men who continually put her down. It's massively cathartic for the player to be in Lara's shoes, and I don't think there's any coincidence either that the only members of Lara's ship crew to survive are minorities – namely a Maori man, an African-American woman and a Japanese-American girl. If you choose to read the game through this specific filter, Tomb Raider 2013 is all about sticking it to the white male majority whose voices remain loudest in gaming.

So yeah, next time you're feeling worn down by sexism in gaming, and the hurtful, demeaning comments that sprout from such an attitude, I recommend loading up last year's Tomb Raider for a bit of Napalm arrow and grenade launching relief. Not to mention inspiration.

Meanwhile, I hope that Zoe, Anita and the like are able to take the hatred thrown their way, cash in the experience gained and use it to unlock their very own Hardened Survivor mode. Keep going, ladies.

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-19176710251019200862014-07-25T10:00:00.000+02:002014-07-25T10:00:00.984+02:00Salani kahle, South Africa, and konnichiwa, Japan. Also, Tomb Raider...
This is the day, ladies and gentlemen. Today I set out to make my mark; to find adventure...

I leave home for Pretoria today, and tomorrow I fly out of South Africa for at least a year to teach English in Japan. I intend to keep this entertainment and geek culture-focused blog going during this period. However, updates are likely to be fewer - especially to begin with.

On that note, the latest Girlz 'N' Games comic (Part 1 of 3) is now up. I had a grand plan of having all 6-7 panels completed before I departed. Unfortunately, wrapping-up-life admin got in the way during my final few weeks in South Africa. Here is the concluding panel image as a bonus image though, until I can update again. I do especially like it given its personal significance and inspirational message.

As for my travels and overseas experiences, if you're curious you can follow my wanderings in the Land of Himiko over at my new personal blog: The Happiness Ronin.

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-90710307686727026922014-07-18T11:00:00.000+02:002014-07-18T11:00:01.491+02:00Movies out today: demons, drama and dodgy neighbours
If you're on the East Coast for the next 9 days you have dozens of movies to choose from as part of the Durban International Film Festival, South Africa's biggest film fest. For everyone else around the country, there are four new releases from which to take your pick.

Deliver Us from Evil:
Crime and horror collide in this supposed true story - and book adaptation - that centres on a New York police officer (Eric Bana) forced to join forces with a priest (Edgar Ramirez) to solve a case with demonic connections. Also starring Olivia Munn and Joel McHale.

From the director of The Exorcism of Emily Rose and Sinister, Deliver Us from Evil is apparently a serviceable supernatural thriller that never reaches its full scare potential due to some poor filmmaking decisions (Check out Kervyn's The Movies.co.za review here). Deliver is solidly acted (for the most part) and generates creepy atmosphere well, but the scares are cheap and so very tired. It has an aggregated review score of 30% Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes.

Bad Neighbours:
In this R-rated comedy, new parents (Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne) face off against the wild fraternity - headed by Zac Efron and Dave Franco - that moves in next to their home. Tempers rage and revenge pranks escalate on both sides. From the director of Forgetting Sarah Marshall and and Get Him to the Greek.

Bad Neighbours, also known as Neighbors in the US, has been a critical and commercial hit. Like most of these bawdy comedies it's hit and miss silliness, but the well-matched cast brings the required energy. Byrne is the surprising film stealer. 73% Fresh.

Life of a King:
Cuba Gooding, Jr. stars in this real-life inspirational drama about a bank robber who emerges from prison and seeks to empower inner city teens through the game that changed his life: chess. Also with Dennis Haysbert and Lisa Gay Hamilton.

Life of a King is apparently formulaic and sentimental. This said, excellent acting by Gooding Jr. and his young co-stars gives the project some real emotional resonance. 38% Fresh.

The Necessary Death of Charlie Countryman:
A romantic thriller where a young American (Shia LaBeouf) is drawn to Romania and falls for a woman (Evan Rachel Wood) with a dark, complicated past, and an unstable ex-husband (Mads Mikkelsen).

Mostly confined to the film festival circuit overseas, Charlie Countryman has been called atmospheric and well-acted, but also very pretentious and messy. Its flinging together of romance, magical realism, adventure, violent crime and goofy comedy has alienated a lot of critics but no doubt will earn it a cult following over time. 27% Fresh.

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-37951774082885838002014-07-11T11:00:00.000+02:002014-07-11T11:00:03.471+02:00New movies out today: angry apes and lurve troubles
If you aren't gearing up for this year's Durban International Film Festival - I suppose, even if you are - you have four new releases to catch at South African cinemas as of today.

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes:
Screening in 2D and 3D is this sequel to the 2011 reboot - a hit with critics and audiences alike. The follow-up sci-fi actioner looks to be little different. For the record the film is set a decade after a virus has decimated humanity. Survivors like Jason Clarke, Gary Oldman, Keri Russell and Kodi Smit-McPhee have to contend with, and consider their feelings towards the evolved ape population that is thriving in the woods. This group is headed by chimpanzee Caesar (motion-capture performed by Andy Serkis) who has very good reason to be distrustful of humans. And so tensions escalate. Trailer Tuesday profile.

According to Nick in his 5-star TheMovies.co.za review, Dawn is one of the year's best films - hands down. He's not the only one to think so. At the time of writing, the film was sitting with an aggregated review score of 98% Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. Dawn is evidently the perfect balance of excitement, intelligence and emotional resonance, with dazzling special effects to boot.

Earth to Echo:
Shot in the found footage style is this throwback sci-fi adventure for the whole family. You know, think E.T. and Flight of the Navigator. A group of childhood best friends are about to be forced apart by a construction project. Then they encounter a friendly alien robot who needs their help to return to its home planet.

Earth to Echo is far from original but evidently it has a certain charm, and young children won't be distracted by the copycatting. The found footage approach is completely pointless here though, and very inconsistently used. 48% Fresh.

Third Person:
Despite Liam Neeson looking typically Taken-intense on the poster, Third Person is actually more romantic drama than thriller. It tells three interlinking love stories set in Rome, Paris and New York, and features a star-studded cast that includes Mila Kunis, Olivia Wilde, James Franco, Adrien Brody, Maria Bello and Kim Basinger.

Despite its pedigree, Third Person has not been a hit with critics. It's been called intriguing but imperfect; hurt badly by its attempts to be too clever than it is, and coming across as self-conscious and artificial as a result. 22% Fresh.

Sunlight Jr.
Also screening in limited release is this intimate drama starring Naomi Watts and Matt Dillon as a minimum wage couple stuck in a cycle of poverty, but nonetheless excited by the prospect of having a baby... if they can overcome the many obstacles thrown their way.

Sunlight Jr. isn't exactly cheerful stuff - in fact, it's most frequently called depressing - but it's very well acted, insightful and non-judgemental. 67% Fresh.

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-30586855017798488442014-07-10T08:30:00.000+02:002014-07-10T08:30:01.656+02:00""Some women are lost in the fire. Some women are built from it."
This gif set takes me to my happy place like no other...

So many fascinating, fierce females - any many of them far more complex than are given credit simply because they are so "strong" in terms of outward appearance.

Also, this makes a good companion to this thought-provoking article, and this advertising campaign.

Source: Ericscissorhands on Tumblr.

Pfangirlhttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-77867109054527852662014-07-02T21:14:00.002+02:002014-07-03T18:39:57.370+02:00Movies out today: No big booms
Four new films hit South African cinemas today, and they're all of the rather low-key (i.e. non-explosive) sort. You'll have to get your action blockbuster kicks elsewhere this weekend I'm afraid.

Blended:
Probably the least reviled Adam Sandler comedies of recent years have seen him sharing the screen with Drew Barrymore. They reunite for the third time in Blended, where two single parents and their warring broods are thrown together during an African vacation. And by Africa, of course that means a stay at the Lost City for extra (facepalm) authenticity.

Anyway, Blended has not been as flat-out panned as Sandler's last handful of flicks. Words like "tolerable" and "bland" have been tossed about, ultimately earning the film a 14% Fresh rating on review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes.

The House of Magic:
Screening in 2D and 3D is this CGI-animated comedy adventure for the kiddies. Thunder is an abandoned cat who finds a new home with a kind-hearted magician. He has to join forces with the magician's other animals and automatrons though, when the old man's slimy nephew attempts to sell the house where they all live.

The House of Magic doesn't come from any of the major American names in animation. It's actually a Belgian-French production that has yet to even screen in the US, hence no Rotten Tomatoes review score. However, word is that the film is a sweet surprise - predictably plotted but charming nonetheless.

Hateship Loveship:
Based on a short story, Hateship Loveship is an indie drama that centres on a shy housekeeper (Kristen Wiig) who is the victim of a hoax, in the form of forged love letters. Except the hoax opens her to the possibility of true happiness after all. Also with Hailee Steinfeld, Guy Pearce, Jennifer Jason Leigh and Nick Nolte.

Hateship Loveship's greatest strength is apparently its sincere, unusually serious performance from Wiig. Overall this tale of desire for connection may be too slow and hard to swallow for some. A divisive 51% Fresh.

The Invisible Woman:
Screening on the art house circuit is this true life drama and biopic that examines the relationship between iconic Victorian Era writer Charles Dickens (Ralph Fiennes) and his much younger mistress, actress Nelly Ternan (Felicity Jones). Also with Kristin Scott Thomas.

Fiennes also directs The Invisible Woman, which is likely to satisfy fans of period pieces. It's well acted, well cast and full of emotion. Some may find it a bit too subtle, however. 76% Fresh.

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-16488806045887144882014-06-27T11:00:00.000+02:002014-06-27T11:00:00.805+02:00Movies out today: big robots, life-altering decisions and costume drama
Three new films hit South African cinemas today, although it's clear that two won't be threatening the third in terms of box office earnings.

Transformers: Age of Extinction:
Screening in 2D, 3D and 3D IMAX is this fourth entry in, and pseudo-reboot of, the big screen series centred on the Transformers toy line and offshoot media. Set four years after the events of Transformers: Dark of the Moon, Age of Extinction sees the remaining Transformers hunted to near extinction. Autobot leader Optimus Prime and his surviving friends align with a single father (Mark Wahlberg) and his family against a Transformer bounty hunter, brutal CIA unit and an overly ambitious technology firm CEO (Stanley Tucci) who may have bitten off more than he can chew. Oh, yeah, and there are Dinobots this time too.

Once again directed by Michael Bay, Transformers: Age of Extinction looks to be more of the overblown blockbuster same - despite evidently going for a less goofy approach now that Shia LaBeouf's Sam Witwicky is gone. At the time of writing this profile, the movie was sitting with an aggregated review score of 13% Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. Consensus is that it's 165 minutes of excess: just noise, battles, special effects and brain aching stupidity from the messy script and weak characters.

Locke:
Tom Hardy stars in this one-man-one-location thriller about a construction foreman, husband and father who receives a phone call, prompting a decision that will forever alter his life. The film focuses entirely on the title character over the course of one car ride as he juggles phone calls with important figures in his life.

This indie, gimmicky release won't be for everyone. However, minimalist Locke has been called "riveting" and "unrelentingly emotionally intense." Hardy evidently gives the greatest performance of his career (to date). 89% Fresh.

Belle:
Your anti-Transformers is this costume drama and true story about Dido Elizabeth Belle (Gugu Mbatha-Raw), the illegitimate, mixed race daughter of a British officer in the 1700s. She is brought up as an aristocrat by the Lord Chief Justice of England (Tom Wilkinson), and despite facing many social obstacles, plays her part in the abolition of slavery. Also with Miranda Richardson, Matthew Goode and Emily Watson.

Belle is apparently a crowd-pleasing winner - sumptuous looking, warm and full of social commentary. A few reviewers have found it shallow and a unnecessarily warped version of a true story, however. 82% Fresh.

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-92132010333791387572014-06-26T09:00:00.000+02:002014-06-26T09:00:03.275+02:00Time and time again: X-Men - Days of Future Past and Edge of Tomorrow micro reviews
I love a good time travel movie, but typically they tend to be more obscure productions on the periphery of the mainstream given their complexity and brain-straining ambition. So I was particularly surprised when TWO of this year's biggest American Summer blockbusters – one of them already a massive superhero project – chose time travel (or control) as their central concept.

X-Men: Days of Future Past
Essentially bridging X-Men 1-3 and prequel story X-Men: First Class, each with large casts of their own, you don't get much more complex (at least on paper) than this Marvel comic adaptation, based on the Days of Future Past storyline. With mutants facing extinction in the near future, Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) has his consciousness sent back to his body in the 1970s in order to prevent events that will ultimately trigger the genocide. This involves reuniting a disillusioned young Professor X (James McAvoy) and Magneto (Michael Fassbender).

Those unfamiliar with the X-Men cinematic universe will find no entry point to the franchise here. Dozens of fan-favourite characters make appearances (many just glorified cameos), and the film's cast is stuffed with famous faces. X-Men fans though will probably require multiple viewings to fully appreciate all the visual references squeezed in for their pleasure.

Days of Future Past could have felt bloated and cumbersome but miraculously, along with inserting plenty of humour, it stays sleek, focused and fast-paced – with a conclusion that elegantly cleans up the universe in preparation for another huge tale lifted from the comics, and teased in a post-credits scene.

Highlights in Days of Future Past includes Evan Peters's ADHD Quicksilver, the wonderfully inventive fight scenes involving portal-generating Blink (Fan Bingbing), Mystique's contortionist combat style and the overall production design, which is not short on nods to the comics.

Still, though, I think I continue to prefer First Class more. Days of Future Past is inconsistent in terms of what events it insists happened in earlier X-Men films, and personally I developed a frustration-triggered headache trying to accommodate certain things and exclude others from the timeline.

3.5 stars out of 5.

Edge of Tomorrow
Not a sequel, though based on Japanese light novel All You Need is Kill, Edge of Tomorrow takes the Groundhog Day concept, and gives it a science fiction spin.

An ill-prepared communications officer (Tom Cruise) finds himself on the front lines during Mankind's last stand against a powerful alien force dubbed Mimics. Our hero promptly dies, only to reawaken before the battle. He dies in combat again, wakes, and so the cycle continues. However, this weird turn of events gradually transforms him into a highly skilled soldier with the secret to defeating the Mimics.

Since the release of Groundhog Day back in 1993, dozens of films and TV series have used the time loop plot. Usually the results become quickly tedious, as the audience is forced to watch the same events replayed over and over. Edge of Tomorrow, though, actually manages to avoid the tedium trap. The audience is trusted to assume the same things happen off-screen while new events – ones that advance the plot – are depicted. And all the while, at least until the very end, there is a pleasing sense of logic as to how time is treated.

This isn't to say that the film isn't packed with loads of other rewards for the viewer. Think what you want about Tom Cruise but the man has excellent taste in terms of action blockbusters – and here he doesn't play a cocky Chosen One for once.

Despite not being based on an interactive franchise, Edge of Tomorrow has a strong video game vibe about it – that same sense of repeat-and-master that any gamer will be familiar with. For the non-gamer crowd. Edge of Tomorrow is highly satisfying in terms of its inventiveness. For the first time in ages, on-screen aliens are actually frightening, depicted here as something like frenzied robotic octopi with a penchant for burrowing. Meanwhile, Emily Blunt is an ass-kicking delight, a "strong female character" rounded out by the fact that she comes with her own time loop-related emotional baggage.

Edge of Tomorrow is loaded with pleasant surprises. Just a pity about the ending though.

4 stars out of 5.

Pfangirlhttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-90305671391175812242014-06-25T09:00:00.000+02:002014-06-25T09:00:02.418+02:00Tomb Raider #5 out today
Happy New Comic Wednesday. This is your friendly service announcement reminding you that Tomb Raider #5 is out today (preview 5 pages here), the penultimate issue in first story arc from writer Gail Simone and artist Nicolas Daniel Selma. For the record, Rhianna Pratchett joins Simone for co-writing duties from issue #7, and the series gets a new penciller, Derlis Santacruz, from issue #8.

Speaking of art, today's new issue certainly features the most striking of the new comic covers so far, drawn by the 2013 game reboot's art director Brian Horton. I certainly wouldn't mind a copy if the original work was released as a print. It's stunning.

Anyway in Tomb Raider #5, fledgling archaeologist Lara Croft is back on the legendary island of Yamatai to continue her sorry-not-sorry killing spree as she attempts to save her best friend, Sam - "the person [she] loves most in the world" - for the... third time now?

I must confess at this point I am a tad concerned about how effectively everything will be wrapped up in just two issues. There just seem to be so many disparate plot points - four guardians, four cataclysms, four treasures - mixed with logic chasms like "Why would a cult place so much importance in a man they've evidently known existed for like 5 minutes?", "Why aren't archaeologists and the press going gaga over the discovery of Yamatai even though it's apparently no longer hidden?" and "Why has Lara forgotten her grand 'I'm not going home' statement at the end of the preceding game?"

It's all rather frustrating.

I keep waiting for a spectacular plot twist - right now my money is on Lara being the hypnotised fourth guardian - but at this stage I think I'd even be happy with ye olde cop-out of an ending that has our heroine waking from a fever dream in a Japanese hospital.

I'm here until the end of the story, of course, but I'm not a fan of any pop culture product - horror films are especially bad for it - where nothing makes sense until the very end when one piece of information is revealed that causes everything else to fall into place. Tomb Raider: The Comic seems to have adopted this "Reward the Faithful" approach but the whole experience so far has served as a reminder why I dumped single-issue comic reading years ago in favour of volume collections with their more satisfying chunks of story in one place at one time.

Come on, Tomb Raider #5-6. I'm holding thumbs that you finally deliver something emotionally gratifying and/or intellectually rewarding. Please!

On a more cheerful, less irritable note, here's a piece of fan art I completed that brings together the Tomb Raider and Frozen franchises. The original image is online here, or here, although I have to confess I prefer the "extended lyrics" version below that Fionnuala J. uploaded.

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-18181883182028916762014-06-20T11:00:00.000+02:002014-06-20T11:00:03.657+02:00New movies out today: big name sequels and smaller art house fare
Four new movies release in South Africa today, and it's a combination of big name sequels and lesser known art house fare.

 How to Train Your Dragon 2:
Screening in 2D and 3D is this fantasy adventure for the whole family, from DreamWorks Animation. Set several years after the events of the first film - and loosely based on Cressida Cowell's book series - the viking villagers of Berk and their dragon allies face a new threat from further abroad. The voice cast includes returning Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler, America Ferrera and Jonah Hill, with newcomers Cate Blanchett, Djimon Hounsou and Kit Harington. Trailer Tuesday profile.

How to Train Your Dragon 2 is apparently much more than a typical sequel rehash of the original. It offers breathtaking visuals along with being darker, deeper and more emotionally satisfying than its predecessor. It may be a tad too overstuffed for some, although Nick at TheMovies calls it a must-watch masterpiece. 93% Fresh on review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes.

 22 Jump Street:
Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum return in this sequel to the hit action comedy, itself based on an 80s TV series. This time the mismatched cop duo are going undercover at a college to bust a drug supplier. Also with Peter Stormare and Ice Cube.

According to reviewers, 22 Jump Street is actually an improvement on its predecessor. Both charming and zany, it embraces its meta nature. References to ridiculous cash-in sequels come thick and fast. 84% Fresh.

 In Secret:
The classic 19th Century French novel Thérèse Raquin gets the big screen treatment in this drama thriller. Elizabeth Olsen is a young woman trapped in a loveless marriage, presided over by her controlling aunt (Jessica Lange). Then she begins an affair with her husband's friend (Oscar Isaac), leading to tragedy.

In Secret has largely split reviewers. The film has received praise for Lange's nuanced performance but has been criticised for becoming increasingly leaden as it progresses. 41% Fresh.

Haute Cuisine:
Screening in limited release is this French language comedy-drama based on a true story. A respected regional chef (Catherine Frot) is chosen to be the president's personal cook, but has to deal with professional jealousies and political intrigue.

Haute Cuisine is definitely one for the foodies, given the culinary delights that are artfully displayed. For other filmgoers it's evidently tasty but not particularly nourishing. Translation: it's charming but inconsequentially lightweight. 68% Fresh.

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-49383736632178466932014-06-16T16:30:00.000+02:002014-06-16T16:30:00.669+02:00Maleficent 3D reviewed
I think it's safe to say that Disney is really intent on dismantling the "true love's first kiss" convention so central to the studio's success for decades. Frozen, Brave and, now, Maleficent have all recently kicked Prince Charming to the curb and instead prioritised the bond between women as being far more powerfully healing.

It's a refreshing change, and it helps to make Maleficent one of the strongest fairy tale movies released to date. This is not to say that Maleficent is perfect. Far from it. However, the film benefits from its interesting gender-positive message about female friendship, and a tight narrative focus that is unusual for this kind of big budget genre fare.

In essence, Maleficent reinterprets Disney's 1959 animated classic, except this time it does so from the perspective of the movie's iconic villain – the horned, grudge-holding fairy Maleficent. Angelina Jolie plays Maleficent in live-action form, and we learn exactly why this powerful magic caster – originally a nature spirit and guardian of the Moors – went on to curse adorable newborn princess Aurora (played as a young woman by Elle Fanning).

Maleficent's journey into anger and hatred is actually a surprisingly dark story from Disney. In fact, the key event that triggers it could be considered the closest the studio has ever come to depicting date rape; it's that traumatic a betrayal. And although there is actually quite a bit of comic relief in the film – provided by Imelda Staunton, Juno Temple and Lesley Manville's idiot trio of pixies – the tone for Maleficent's tale of redemption and return from hard-heartedness is set quite early on… and it's not cheerful.

It all shapes up nicely until the very end of the movie, when all the angst-building goes out the window for an overblown conclusion, followed by a convenient happy ending that doesn't ring true – and is perhaps the greatest departure from the film's source material.

There are a few other gripes to be made about the movie – such as the decision to have Maleficent's hench-raven continually morph into Sam Riley when they could easily have just CGIed a talking bird. Evidently, the filmmakers believed our anti-heroine needed a human foil, when it is completely unnecessary.

Still, there are definitely several plusses to recognise. Although Maleficent is the star of the show, receiving far more character development than anyone else, Sharlto Copley turns in a memorable performance as the increasingly unhinged king, unable to reconcile his lust for power with his sense of guilt. Then there's the fact that Maleficent is the first movie in a long time that has really capitalised on Jolie's high, but ever-edgy, charisma factor. It's a treat to see the actress in a role that is so perfect for her.

It's just a pity that after such a considered set-up, the film loses its nerve and completely blunts every edge to fit with family-safe convention.

3.5 stars out of 5.

Pfangirlhttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-55009382426686592712014-06-13T11:00:00.000+02:002014-06-13T11:00:01.544+02:00Movies out today: We're off to the Edge of Tomorrow
Just three new films open in South African cinemas for the long weekend. Between them they offer a combination of sci-fi action, bittersweet star-crossed romance and tonally lightweight, but star-heavy, fare for the older set.

Edge of Tomorrow:
Blockbuster fanatics will find their needs fulfilled by this Japanese novel adaptation, screening in 2D, 3D and 3D IMAX. Tom Cruise is a rather useless soldier forced into a front line battle with aliens that have invaded Western Europe in the not so distant future. The thing is, he finds himself in a Groundhog Day-style time loop, fighting (and dying) in the same battle repeatedly. This makes him a better fighter, and his unique ability is recognised by Emily Blunt's badass female commander, who has experienced something similar herself. Together, they may finally be able to save humanity.

As usual with a Tom Cruise flick these days, it can be difficult to get an objective opinion of the movie, given how often critics like to jab at the star. This said, both Kervyn and Kyle at TheMovies.co.za are supporters of Edge of Tomorrow, which they've said is massively entertaining, witty and *gasp* actually makes Cruise likeable. Internationally, reviewers have called the film gripping and playful. Pity about its ending though. 89% Fresh on review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes.

The Fault in our Stars:
The critically acclaimed, best-selling romance gets the big screen treatment. Two teens (Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort) affected by cancer meet at a support group and develop a friendship that deepens into something more. Fate won't let them escape tragedy, however. Also with Laura Dern and Willem Dafoe.

Like its source material, The Fault in our Stars has been a hit with critics and audiences alike. Check out Ingrid's review at TheMovies.co.za. The film is a tearjerker that succeeds thanks to its relaxed naturalism which develops over time, and refusal to slather on the mawkishness. Woodley is exceptional. 82% Fresh.

Fading Gigolo:
John Turturro writes, directs and stars in this indie comedy about two cash-strapped friends - the other being Woody Allen - who start up a thriving gigolo business. Feelings start to get in the way though. Then again, the lady clientele do include Sharon Stone, Sofía Vergara and Vanessa Paradis.

Fading Gigolo has split critics. It's apparently lightweight and very likeable - Allen is especially delightful - but overall, the project doesn't ring true at all. 54% Fresh.

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-34812776365252534752014-06-11T08:30:00.000+02:002014-06-11T08:38:23.602+02:00Rise of the Tomb Raider - get set for another satisfying empowerment fantasy
We knew it was in development, but on Monday at E3, the first trailer for the next-gen Tomb Raider (2013) sequel was unveiled.

Presenting Rise of the Tomb Raider, which is due for release - for now - around the Christmas holidays 2015.

"I think we're making progress in these sessions. You say the flashbacks have stopped. This is excellent improvement, but I'm concerned that you're still shutting yourself away at home. It's important to gradually take steps into the outside world. Take some walks, maybe pick up a nice hobby. A girl your age should be exploring knew horizons. I'd like to know you're taking care of yourself. For many people these traumas become a mental trap. They get stuck like a ship frozen in ice. There's another type of person. Do you know what happens to them, Miss Croft?"

 "We become who we're meant to be."
---

Almost immediately after watching the trailer, some online commentators complained that showing aristocratic daredevil archaeologist Lara Croft in therapy "weakened" the iconic character, and by extension implied that video game heroines are inherently "weaker" in all aspects when compared to their male counterparts.

I completely disagree, like this author. I think the announcement trailer is fantastic - the perfect bridge between the first game, with its fiercely independent "I'm not going home" final declaration, and its follow-up - and I'm not even going to touch on the assumption that mental illness (in this case, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) equals inferiority.

You see, I firmly believe that the rebooted Tomb Raider franchise is taking shape as - and is strongest when viewed as - an empowerment fantasy for women. Not that Tomb Raider is a game solely for female gamers; not at all. But when you note the way Tomb Raider 2013 resonated with so many women, you have to question why exactly that was - particularly when so many of these players admitted to previously dismissing Lara Croft as simply a sexist fantasy for guys; nothing more than pixellated tits-and-ass designed to sell video games.

I've given this quite a bit of thought, and I think ultimately the situation is similar to the relationship between the Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig versions of James Bond. Classic Lara Croft and the Brosnan Bond, were creations of the 1990s - practically superheroes, basically invulnerable and just too cool to be taken seriously. They were fun wish-fulfillment figures, having adventures, continually saving the world, dishing out one-liners and living the high life with no consequences. Craig Bond and the Reboot Lara are, by contrast, far more vulnerable, and relatable. They may be capable of amazing physical feats too but they suffer real lasting pain, have tragic back-stories and yet they endure. Audiences and players are able to latch onto these characters at a deeper emotional level rather than simply appreciate their competence and style.

Certainly we can appreciate the fact that the trailer for Rise of Tomb Raider makes the hero human. The events of the first game haven't just slipped off Lara Croft like water off a duck's back. Uncharacteristically realistic for a video game, trauma is shown as having no quick fix here. It leaves deep emotional scars for characters to come to terms with.

The Rise announcement trailer is also rich in evidence for anyone who wants to make the case for the new series as a female empowerment fantasy.

After a whole game which could be summed up as "bookish, unsure-of-herself girl takes on an island of bigger, stronger, better-equipped men who underestimate and dismiss her", here we meet Lara sitting rigid, sullen and clearly very uncomfortable in the office of a therapist. Yet again - just as in the first game, and Dark Horse comics since then - she's facing an older white male who has no grasp of what she is really like, or capable of. Yet there he sits telling her what she should be doing, as "a girl [her] age." He rambles off a list of expectations for Lara to meet, culminating with the insulting, heavily paternalistic statement, "I'd like to know you're taking care of yourself."

However genuinely well-intentioned the therapist may be, at the end of the day Lara is expected to report to him. That is his solution. He is literally ticking off boxes in regards to her. If she stays leashed and obedient, he'll look after her and help set her right. He doesn't even give her room to speak until the very end.

However, Lara has been lying to him. Those cut up hands she keeps flexing and clenching reveal this truth even if her therapist is too wrapped up in himself and his trite textbook recommendations to notice. Lara isn't holed up at home with agoraphobia. She's carrying on with her personal quest for answers despite the painful flashbacks and twitchy anxiety she obviously still suffers from... yet verbally insists that she's overcome.

It's a mystery why exactly Lara is in a psychiatrist/psychologist's office if she doesn't want to be there. Evidently it will be explained in the second story arc of the new comic.

The point is, there is a massive disconnect between what Lara is doing and what she is telling her therapist. The Lara that we meet in the Rise trailer has fully embraced her rebellious side. Although she knows how to "obediently" play the system to her advantage, she's evidently lost respect for the world of male authority figures.

In fact, she seems wholly dissociated from society - very Lisbeth Salander-ish. The icy setting for the trailer seems appropriate on multiple levels. The new, evidently somewhat older, Lara is alone and aloof. Her fresh-faced innocence is gone. She doesn't give a shit. The inexperienced young girl's fear and anger from the 2013 game are completely erased. The woman onscreen here is cold and calculating, confident in her abilities and killing without any trace of remorse. Although I doubt that her best friend Sam will die in the comics, I'm willing to bet that Lara has deliberately isolated herself by the time that Rise of the Tomb Raider starts, so as not to risk once again hurting anyone left even remotely close to her.

Incredibly determined, Lara is pushing through her pain all on her own, for better or worse. She's defying solutions forced on her by older, more powerful men, to find her own way, and that's damn inspiring for anyone who has ever felt caged by expectation and casually accepted social "norms." And believe me, as a woman in certain field and situations, you can feel that fist-clenching frustration. Even today.

Living with her own fears and guilt every day, Lara Croft in Rise of the Tomb Raider is still giving the finger to the rule-makers who dictate our norms. She is admirably carving out her own path instead, and flourishing. And to get to accompany her on that journey; to share her skin as she accomplishes so much, God, it's immensely gratifying.

For the record, the official press release for Rise of the Tomb Raider is as follows:

REDWOOD CITY, CA (June, 9 2014) – Crystal Dynamics, a Square Enix studio, today announced its latest title in the critically acclaimed and award-winning Tomb Raider® series, Rise of the Tomb Raider ® . The game will redefine survival action in Holiday 2015.

In her first adventure, Lara Croft® was forged into a true survivor, but she glimpsed a deeper, secret world. In the next chapter of her journey, Lara must use her survival skills and wits, learn to trust new friends, and ultimately accept her destiny as the Tomb Raider.

"With the power of the new generation, and our proprietary Foundation engine, our high octane action moments will be even more epic. Multiple locations around the world will be filled with exploration spaces that are some of the most beautifully hostile places on earth and over three times larger than we could achieve before," said Darrell Gallagher, Head of Product Development and Western Studios at Square Enix. "Our digital actors will rival CG quality, and after hearing the cry from our fans loud and clear, we will put the tombs back into Tomb Raider, all in our gritty Survival-Action style."

Rise of the Tomb Raider builds upon the formula that made Tomb Raider a success, and features the return of Camilla Luddington as Lara Croft. Camilla will take character performance to new heights as Lara pushes herself beyond human limits and is confronted with what it means to become a hero. Once again, Crystal Dynamics is proud to have the award-winning author Rhianna Pratchett as a key member of the writing team, helping craft a story that delves into Lara's inner turmoil and motivations in this critical second act of her journey.
There's also another newer synopsis here, with mention of "lost cities" and "pursuit by sinister shadow organisations."

You can enjoy the below official concept art for the sequel, as well.

It's still a very long wait for Rise of the Tomb Raider but I'm holding thumbs that it will be worth it.

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-61873582950949780292014-06-06T11:00:00.000+02:002014-06-07T08:47:32.280+02:00Movies out today: disgruntled fairies, ghosts and counterculture pioneers

Just four new movies hit South African screens today, although it's pretty easy to guess who the box office winner of the bunch will be.

Maleficent:
Screening in 2D, 3D and 3D IMAX is this fantasy adventure from Walt Disney Pictures, clearly trying to recapture the success of their other recent live-action fairy tale reimaginings, Oz the Great and Powerful, and Alice in Wonderland. Maleficent relooks Disney's 1959 animated classic from the perspective of its striking villain, bad fairy Maleficent. She's played by Angelina Jolie, with Elle Fanning as narcoleptic princess Aurora, Sharlto Copley as the king and Imelda Staunton and Juno Temple as two of the good fairies charged with raising Aurora. Trailer Tuesday profile.

Is Maleficent the fairy tale adaptation to tug the sub-genre out of pretty-looking mediocrity? Critics are... torn. Some like Nick in his review at TheMovies.co.za have praised the film as ideal entertainment for the whole family, with an electric performance by Jolie and surprisingly satisfying 3D. Others have complained that the film is too safe, all dazzle and no substance, and suffers for not having any other characters as interesting as Jolie's Maleficent. 51% Fresh on review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes.

The Quiet Ones:
For your horror kicks, there's this British supernatural thriller starring Jared Harris and Sam Claflin as academics who conduct experiments on the relationship between negative energy and hauntings. Loosely based on actual events.

Coming from iconic Hammer Films The Quiet Ones is, like its predecessor production The Woman in Black, a retro-style chiller, more focused on performances and atmosphere than gore. Narratively though, it suffers from a lack of plausibility. 35% Fresh.

The Inevitable Defeat of Mister & Pete:
Of a more gritty, less escapist nature is this coming-of-age drama about two young boys forced to fend for themselves in the inner city when the one child's mother (Jennifer Hudson) is arrested. Also with Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Anthony Mackie, Jordin Sparks and Jeffrey Wright.

The Inevitable Defeat has been critically acclaimed. It's heart-wrenching stuff apparently, with incredibly impressive performances by its child stars. 90% Fresh.

Kill Your Darlings:
Your biopic quotient is being filled this week by this drama centred on the highly influential Beat Generation writers. It explores how love, obsession and murder at Columbia University in 1944 fired up these counterculture pioneers. Daniel Radcliffe is Allen Ginsberg, Dane DeHaan is Lucien Carr and Jack Huston is Jack Kerouac. Also with Ben Foster, Elizabeth Olsen and many more.

A film festival, erm, darling last year, Kill Your Darlings is part crime mystery, part coming-of-age tale. It may be a bit too mannered for some, but it's been called powerful and insightful, with much praise for the chemistry between Radcliffe and DeHaan. 76% Fresh.

Pfangirlhttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-14268799303001170372014-06-03T10:00:00.000+02:002014-06-03T10:00:03.677+02:00Trailer Tuesday - Sin City: A Dame to Kill For

Mostly I'm profiling this trailer today as an excuse to post the below "controversial" poster, rejected just last week for being too racy by the self-regulating MPAA. Heh. I do loves me some Eva Green in full blown femme fatale mode.

Green is, out of interest, playing the title character in this sequel to the hit 2005 comic series adaptation - once again co-scripted and directed by Robert Rodriguez alongside the books' creator, Frank Miller.

Shot for 3D, Sin City: A Dame to Kill For is, like its predecessor, a collection of crime noir tales set in highly corrupt, sordid and violent Basin City. Whereas the original film predominantly adapted Miller's The Big Fat Kill, That Yellow Bastard and The Hard Goodbye, A Dame to Kill For is based on its namesake book, the Just Another Saturday Night one-shot (yay, more of Mickey Rourke's Marv!) and two new tales of ego, revenge and love in this bleak, typically Miller setting.

Along with Rourke, returning faces in the impressive ensemble cast of A Dame to Kill For - which covers events before, during and after the original film - include Jessica Alba, Rosario Dawson, Bruce Willis Clive Owen, Jaime King and Powers Boothe. Newcomers to the franchise are Green, Josh Brolin, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ray Liotta, Jamie Chung, Christopher Meloni, Jeremy Piven, Juno Temple and Stacy Keach.

Of course I'm game for a return to Basin City. The only thing is that I can already predict critics' claims that the sequel is "more of the same" and "stale."

The original Sin City back in 2005 was one of the first comic book adaptations (well of the 21st century, anyway) to fully embrace the comic book aesthetic and go full-blown stylised with the aid of CGI. Since then there's been 300 and its sequel (both based on Frank Miller graphic novels), as well as Miller's own borderline Sin City-clone The Spirit, not to mention an assortment of non-comic adaptations that have gone the green-screened background route.Think Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow and The Warrior's Way. The existence of all these films won't help Sin City 2 convey a sense of freshness.

Pushed back from October last year, Sin City: A Dame to Kill For releases in North America and South Africa on 22 August.

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-75123949306929123532014-05-30T11:00:00.000+02:002014-05-30T11:00:01.160+02:00Movies out today: AI, cowboys, railway men and good Christian girls
It's a bit of a quieter week at the movies with just four new releases hitting cinemas in addition to local Marikana-centred documentary Miners Shot Down.

Transcendence:
This sci-fi drama is the directorial debut of Oscar-winning cinematographer - and frequent Christopher Nolan collaborator - Wally Pfister. Johnny Depp plays a controversial artificial intelligence researcher who finds his consciousness separated from his body and implemented into one of his powerful sentient systems. Also with Rebecca Hall, Cillian Murphy, Kate Mara, Morgan Freeman and Paul Bettany.

Transcendence may look like a Nolan flick, complete with many of his frequent on-screen collaborators, but evidently it doesn't quite cut it as cerebrally-gratifying fare. It looks great but never gets a good grip on its themes. The end result is "cyber nonsense" that's a chore to watch. 19% Fresh on review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes.

A Million Ways to Die in the West:
This follow-up comedy from Ted writer-director-"star" Seth (Family Guy) MacFarlane centres on a mild-mannered sheep farmer (played by MacFarlane) in 1880s Arizona. Said farmer has to discover his inner tough guy when the outlaw husband (Liam Neeson) of his new girlfriend (Charlize Theron) pitches up. Also with Amanda Seyfried, Giovanni Ribisi, Sarah Silverman and Neil Patrick Harris.

Apparently A Million Ways... delivers the R-rated dialogue and "did they really say that?" political incorrectness. However, it also overplays its jokes (particularly those of the toilet humour type) to cringeworthy levels. Or so says Nick in his TheMovies review. Internationally critics have also found the film very uneven, and lazily scripted. It's currently sitting with a 35% Fresh review score on Rotten Tomatoes.

The Railway Man:
Nicole Kidman pops up at the movies for the second time in two weeks with this war drama based on the bestselling autobiography of the same name. Colin Firth is British officer Eric Lomax, who has been forever scarred by his experiences at a Japanese POW camp in WWII (as a younger man he's played by Jeremy Irvine). He sets out to find and confront one of his captors.

Evidently The Railway Man presents a too-tidy cathartic experience, and isn't as engrossing as it could have been - preferring an old-fashioned, predictable approach all around. Performances are fantastic though. 66% Fresh.

I'm in Love with a Church Girl:
For fans of cinema with Christian themes there's this drama about a high-living former drug trafficker (Jeff 'Ja Rule' Atkins) who falls in love with a religious young woman (Adrienne Bailon). Despite having very different pasts and priorities, they begin a relationship, but face a continual series of threats to their happiness. Also with Stephen Baldwin.

I'm In Love with a Church Girl will obviously be speaking to a very specific kind of faith-focused audience. Mainstream critics have slammed it as a predictable and heavy-handed "message movie." 6% Fresh.

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-16801667513458799872014-05-28T10:00:00.000+02:002014-05-28T10:00:00.031+02:00Tomb Raider #4 out today & other comic series news
The fourth issue in the new Tomb Raider comic series from Dark Horse is out today. Buy it right now from their digital store, or app.

Written by Gail Simone and pencilled by Nicolas Daniel Selma, Issue #4 continues the adventures of video game heroine Lara Croft - who underwent reboot treatment in 2013. The new comic, like last year's game, depicts archaeologist Lara as a recent university graduate, a bookish 21 year old who comes to embrace her inner badass on the path to becoming a daredevil, pistol-packing adventurer.

Personally, I think the new take on the character should be known as Lara "Sorry not sorry" Croft...

Anyway, here's a five-page preview of Issue #4 to whet your appetite. It sees Lara making the trek from London back to the accursed island of Yamatai. In the process she gets to stick multiple men with sharp things, and rock a pretty awesome top while doing so.

The cover artwork for Tomb Raider Issue 5 (out on 25 June) and story arc-concluding Issue 6 (out 23 July) is as follows:

Finally, here's some exciting news reported by Tomb Raider Comics. From Issue #7, the comic will be co-scripted by Simone and Rhianna Pratchett, who was head writer on the 2013 game (and presumably is also working on the top secret sequel).

This is good news indeed because A) the Dark Horse comic is supposed to bridge the first and second games, and B) Simone has been fine but you can't beat a British writer for making a British character feel more authentic. Turns of phrase, attitudes to things, behaviour - it's something you can't convincingly ape from across the pond. You need some English blood in your veins. So here's to a wonderful collaboration between American Simone and British Pratchett.

For the record, this is the official plot synopsis for the next comic arc, which kicks off in August:

In the Tomb Raider #6 comic, Lara's journey leads her to a place she thought she would never return to—the place of her nightmares—Yamatai!

A new story starts here in Issue #7. Lara Croft attempts to honor the past but is dragged into a dangerous new journey. A creepy amusement park and a mysterious woman with a personal connection to the terrifying events of Yamatai Island throw Lara's world into peril once again!
Poor girl just can't seem to get away from that damn island...

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-49540779541614626532014-05-23T11:00:00.000+02:002014-05-23T11:00:02.236+02:00Movies out today: Lots of Mutants and lady leads
Five new movies release today. Four of those five, unusually, have female leads. The fifth, however, will be the hands-down box office winner of the weekend.

X-Men: Days of Future Past:
Back in 2000, Bryan Singer's X-Men ushered in the new Golden Age of superhero films. Fourteen years later, Singer brings us arguably the most ambitious comic book adaptation ever made (perhaps even more so than Watchmen). Adapting the famous X-Men time travel story arc, Days of Future Past essentially bridges the original X-Men trilogy, the Wolverine spin-offs and, most importantly, 2011's X-Men: First Class.

The gang's all back in Days of Future Past. With mutants near extinction in an Apocalyptic future, Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) must travel back in time to unite friends-turned-enemies, Xavier (young James McAvoy, old Patrick Stewart) and Magneto (young Michael Fassbender, old Ian McKellen) against their kind's greatest ever threat. The many many returnees and franchise newcomers include Jennifer Lawrence, Nicholas Hoult, Halle Berry, Ellen Page, Peter Dinklage and Evan Peters. Trailer Tuesday profile.

Screening in 2D and shot for 3D, X-Men: Days of Future Past has achieved critical acclaim - including from Kervyn in his TheMovies.co.za review. It's evidently action-packed and satisfying, particularly (and surprisingly!) on an emotional level. This is thanks especially to McAvoy, Fassbender and Lawrence. The film effortlessly accomplishes the impossible AND manages to stick to a brisk 130 minute running time. At the time of writing, Days of Future Past was 94% Fresh on review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes.

Walk of Shame:
For your "outrageous comedy" kicks there's this Elizabeth Banks starrer about a reporter who immediately regrets a one night stand when she wakes up the next morning with no car, money or phone, and has to get across town for a job interview that could change her life. Also with James Marsden.

Screwball style Walk of Shame has largely been slammed by critics as misogynistic, unfunny and illogical, despite the best efforts of Banks. 13% Fresh.

Legends of Oz: Dorothy's Return:
Also screening in 3D (and 2D) this week is this animated musical adventure loosely based on the book by L Frank Baum's great-grandson. Dorothy returns to Oz, and with the help of new and old friends she must confront a villainous Jester intent on enslaving the magical world. Voices include Lea Michele, Patrick Stewart, Kelsey Grammer, Bernadette Peters, Martin Short and more.

Coming from an unknown animation studio, Dorothy's Return has been called "nice but leaden." Evidently it charmless, and looks and feels cheap. 13% Fresh.

Under the Skin:
Scarlett Johansson stars in this sci-fi thriller about an alien who uses sex to prey on men in Scotland. Over time, she develops a greater awareness about her human body. Loosely based on the acclaimed novel of the same name.

Despite the geek-friendly premise, Under the Skin is pure, polarising arthouse fare. Most critics have raved about it, calling it visually striking, haunting and perplexing. Translation: it's probably too weird and inaccessible for the casual cinemagoer. 86% Fresh.

Grace of Monaco:
Also likely to be of interest to a minority audience is this biopic centred on actress-turned-royal Grace Kelly. Nicole Kidman plays the iconic Hitchcock beauty, who comes to question her life as the wife of Monaco's Prince Rainier (Tim Roth). Also with Frank Langella, Parker Posey and Milo Ventimiglia.

Following editing cuts controversy and disapproval of the Monaco Royal Family, Grace of Monaco released at Cannes just last week. It has not been well-received, with critics calling it wooden and dull; just a pretty exercise in showing off early 60s European glamour.

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-40198403274721062042014-05-21T09:30:00.000+02:002014-05-21T11:04:49.880+02:00Midweek movie review: Godzilla
If you plan on watching this year's Godzilla, don't for one second attempt to use your brain. The film provokes an endless series of "But why's?" in regards to science, biological behaviour and character motivations. Godzilla is dumb, no question about it, but it's also gratifying if you like this sort of thing. It doesn't quite envelop you in the fun or thrill you with continual all-round escalation like "robots vs. monsters" Pacific Rim did last year, but this midyear blockbuster is pretty solid nonetheless in terms of offering giant beastie carnage.

If you are interested in the plot of this franchise reboot, here's the rundown: Man's dabbling with nuclear power since the 1940s has awoken monstrous creatures that eons previously burrowed down into the earth to feed off its radiation. Now they're back on the surface of our world, causing chaos in iconic tourist destinations for the most part. The Navy (with David Strathairn as admiral) and scientists Ken Watanabe and Sally Hawkins, are frantically formulating plans to destroy the gigantic creatures. Meanwhile, the Brody family, with dad Joe (Bryan Cranston) and son Ford (Aaron Taylor-Johnson), are tied up in events. Fifteen years previously they suffered a tragedy tied to the monsters and a cover-up to keep their existence secret.

That's it really. The end result mixes good and bad for an undemanding monster-centric disaster flick.

The good:
Godzilla himself. I challenge anyone not to break out in a grin when the "King of Monsters" appears for the first time in all his bulky glory. The filmmakers have gone back to the original Japanese character models, as well as the character's god-like treatment. Godzilla doesn't feel like a sleek CGI-creation, which adds to his credibility, and he's easy to rally behind… even if his final scene pushes the hero aspect a bit too far.

Bryan Cranston. The Breaking Bad star provides the only convincing (and therefore affecting) emotional gravitas in a film stuffed with shock- and stern-faced humans. Taylor-Johnson may technically be the human star of the movie – and he's a likeable enough, if bland, guy – but it's Cranston who makes us care with his character's heart-breaking tale and his own performance.

The serious tone. Michael Bay's Transformers trilogy provided a very good indication about how exactly Godzilla could have played out – with annoying, wise-cracking and speed-talking humans scuttling around under the monsters' feet. Thankfully, there is none of that in Godzilla. The cast on the whole comes from more pedigreed fare, and they play their roles as scientists and military tacticians with sincerity. There are no smug winks at the audience in this respectful tribute to the original Godzilla films.

Running time. In the era of the three-hour blockbuster, Godzilla actually avoids the bloat and sticks to 120 minutes. Some may feel that it takes too long to get to the monsters, but personally I thought a pretty good balance was struck, as the latter was a bit too bloodless and repetitive for my liking.

Moments of striking cinematography. Two in particular stand out – a military squadron parachute drop into the city, and a low-angle shot of Godzilla appearing out of the mist in an Asian quarter strung with lanterns. I also would love to rewatch the information-dense opening sequence to absorb all the early hints bundled with the credits.

The bad:
Utterly pointless 3D. Normally, even with a conversion, there is at least one moment where use of the format stands out. Godzilla doesn't even have that. It's a complete waste of money in 3D.

The dumb. As already mentioned, so much of Godzilla is stupid, with logic running as low as the creatures stand high. Radiation doesn't work like that, EMPs too; and the beastie courtship process seems highly unlikely. If you let your brain function you'll probably find yourself asking questions like "Why would the creatures not just stay at such a radiation-rich place?", "Why are the children on the bus so calm?" and, my favourite, "Why, if you've shot something 80 000 times with guns and had no effect, do you persist in doing so?"

Elizabeth Olsen and Ken Watanabe. I actually like both of these actors a lot, normally. Here though – and it chiefly has to do with their poorly written, irritating characters – all they do is stare wide-eyed and frown respectively. Olsen, in particularly, is saddled with a character who is panicking about her husband, Ford, one second, and blissfully neglecting her phone the next.

The tsunami scene and its aftermath. It's very well done, and gripping, but after watching The Impossible – and remembering any similar real-life disasters – it doesn't feel like something to enjoy guilt free.

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That's it, really. I doubt we'll still be fondly remembering and discussing this Godzilla in a few months time, but it satisfies for now. Plus it has the added benefit of at least finally rinsing the taste of the 1998 Roland Emmerich turkey from our mouths.

3.5 stars out of 5.

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-1972875784617028242014-05-20T10:00:00.000+02:002014-05-20T10:00:02.994+02:00Trailer Tuesday: Lucy
 Need a little more ass-kicking lady in your life? Then check out this trailer for Lucy, the latest from writer-director Luc Besson - he who has given the world such badass young women as La Femme Nikita, and The Fifth Element's Leeloo, not to mention such fan favourite action movies as Taken, The Transporter and The Professional. (His latest, The Family, not so much...)

Well, Besson remains on familiar crime actioner turf - but adds a superheroic/sci-fi spin - with this upcoming Scarlett Johansson starrer. In Lucy, the title character is unwillingly recruited in Taipei as a drug mule, only for the drug to leak in her body and unlock the full potential of her brain. It gives her such powers as instant knowledge absorption, telekinesis, immunity to pain and, evidently, the ability to alter her appearance at will. Also starring Morgan Freeman.

Disregard the eye-rolling stupidity of the premise. Lucy still looks like it's going to be stylish and gratifyingly violent revenge tale. Because, naturally, our heroine uses her new abilities to turn the tables on the drug lords who used and abused her when she was just a powerless girl. Misanthropes and feminists rejoice!

Lucy is out in North America on 8 August. The film's South African release date is currently set as 29 August.

Pfangirlhttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-43800747355898004112014-05-16T11:00:00.000+02:002014-05-16T11:00:01.387+02:00Movies out today: Monsters, maniacs and mad, bad men
Just three new releases hit South African cinemas today, and they're all of the escapist sort...

Godzilla:
Screening in 2D, 3D, and 3D IMAX is this American reboot of the Godzilla film franchise. The King of Monsters pops up to deal with the life-threatening results of our scientific meddling. The pesky humans trying to avoid carnage, meanwhile, include Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ken Watanabe, Elizabeth Olsen, Juliette Binoche, Sally Hawkins and Bryan Cranston. Not your usual brawny, braindead cast for this kind of thing.

The new Godzilla is apparently far removed from that rubbish 1998 Roland Emmerich effort. It's a tad heavy on the uninteresting humans, and takes its time getting to the monster carnage, but it's massively (har!) gratifying nonetheless, returning the franchise to its roots. This is according to Kervyn in his TheMovies review. Internationally, critics have quibbled about some poor writing but appreciated the blockbuster's unusually measured approach and sombre, cautionary tone. Internationally, the film is currently sitting with a very healthy aggregated Rotten Tomatoes review score of 85% Fresh.

The Last Days on Mars:
Horror meets sci-fi in this tale of an eight-man crew running experiments at a research base on Mars. Just short of completing their mission, they discover possible proof of life on the planet, but in seeking to confirm it, they expose themselves to a deadly biological agent. Starring Liev Schreiber and Elias Koteas.

Apparently The Last Days on Mars is well-acted, but its thought-provoking aspects are quickly cast aside in favour of B-grade monster movie formula. The whole project ends up being stranded in that No Man's Land between engagingly "real" survival thriller and schlock silliness. 20% Fresh.

Filth:
For lovers of offbeat British cinema there's this crime comedy-drama based on Irvine (Trainspotting) Welsh's novel of the same name. James McAvoy stars as a hard-living Edinburgh police detective and all-round nasty piece of work, who starts to lose his grip on reality while heading up a high profile murder investigation. Also with Imogen Poots, Jamie Bell and Jim Broadbent.

Filth is apparently messed up, frequently disgusting and unapologetically shameless - very much in the Trainspotting vein. As Nick in his TheMovies.co.za review says, it will have you laughing and gasping in equal measure. It's very flawed, but is held together by McAvoy's surprisingly convincing performance - the best of his career to date. 77% Fresh.

Pfangirlhttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-14810140.post-6324837432155125072014-05-15T10:00:00.000+02:002014-05-15T10:00:01.724+02:00This graphic makes me sad
The following pic has been titled "Every Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman from movies and TV" and it's a telling tale... even with some notable absences, like the brand spanking new Ben Affleck Batman from the upcoming Superman vs. Batman film, AND Adrianne Palicki's Diana in the unaired 2011 Wonder Woman TV pilot (watch it online here) - which I wrote about previously.

Wonder Woman just can't get a break.

I'm not sure of the source of this image, but I encountered it via @marlaerwin on Twitter.

Pfangirlhttp://email@example.com


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Minerva Senior Center Menu
Monday, Dec. 1: Meatloaf macaroni and cheese, three-bean salad, fruit. Tuesday, Dec. 2: Grilled... More
Monday, Dec. 1: Meatloaf macaroni and cheese, three-bean salad, fruit. Tuesday, Dec. 2: Grilled... More
Monday, Dec. 1: Italian chicken, augratin potatoes, Brussels sprouts, applesauce,... More
Carroll Chapter Order of the Eastern Star met Nov. 18 for the 2015 installation of officers with... More
Minerva United Methodist Church Sunday, Nov. 30: Worship Pot, 8:30 a.m.; Sunday School, 9:15... More
The Malvern Alpha Sorosis Women's Club's annual Breakfast with Santa will be held Saturday, Dec.... More
Once again, the members of First Presbyterian Church of Minerva are knitting scarves to be placed... More
Malvern's Lake Mohawk is offering Christmas shopping to the community by opening up its clubhouse... More
The November meeting of the Little Sandy Creek Ruritan Club was held at the East Canton Church of... More
During the weeks before Dec. 25, Christmas in the Christian calendar, many of the Christian... More
On Friday, Dec. 5, and Saturday, Dec. 6, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., the Minerva United Methodist Church will... More
Having had the good fortune of growing up in Malvern, Carroll County, Ohio, I cherish the... More
First Christian Church, 1141 W. Beech St., Alliance, will host its fall and Christmas craft show,... More
The Carrollton Bible Chapel Older Adults Knowing the Savior (OAKS) is sponsoring two fundraisers... More
On Tuesday, Oct. 21, 14 members of the Mohawk Trail Garden Club ventured out to the Spring Hill... More
Minerva United Methodist Church Sunday, Nov. 23: Worship Pot, 8:30 a.m.; Sunday School, 9:15... More
Thanksgiving Singspiration set for Sunday Little Sandy Creek Ruritan Club will sponsor its 43rd... More
The Loudon Township Community Center's annual pie sale is Saturday, Nov. 22, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. or... More
St. Martin Lutheran Church will hold a "Christmas Bazaar" on Dec. 6, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. There will be... More
This season, many Stark County seniors who are alone or impoverished will receive some holiday... More
Malvern Monday, Nov. 24: Chicken Alfredo, garlic linguine, broccoli, pickled beets, orange,... More
There will be a Minerva FFA Alumni Square Dance on Nov. 15, 8-11 p.m., at Minerva Middle School... More
Harsh Bible Church will hold a fall gospel sing Saturday, Nov. 15, 6 p.m. featuring music from... More
The VFW Post 4120 is currently accepting applications for new members - regular men's, men's... More
The Minerva Area Historical Society will meet Thursday, Nov. 20, 7:30 p.m. at the Haas... More
Monday, Nov. 17: Spaghetti with meatballs, garlic bread, tossed salad, peach crunch. Tuesday,... More

subset: commoncrawl


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Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes' Baby Daughter's Name Revealed
We now know the name of Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes' baby!
We now know the name of Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes' baby!
Miley Cyrus resembling a Disney villain? Lady Gaga channeling a 'Harry Potter' character? Check out the ultimate celeb look-alikes.
Gavin DeGraw has released the music video for 'Fire,' one of three new tracks off his forthcoming greatest hits album titled 'Finest Hour: The Best of Gavin DeGraw.' The album will be released on Oct. 21.
It's officially over between Paula Patton and Robin Thicke.
TMZ has learned that Patton officially filed for divorce today, Oct. 8, almost eight months after it was announced that they had split as husband and wife. In the papers, Patton cites "irreconcilable differences" as the reason for the divorce.
Red Bull may (or may not) give you wings, but it definitely will give you money.
Harry Cook and Ryan Ochoa will tap into their spooky sides during a social seance this Friday, Oct. 10.
The backlash following leaked recordings of actor Stephen Collins admitting to incidents of child molestation continues. E! Online reports that Collins has been cut from upcoming episodes of 'Scandal,' now currently in its fourth season on ABC.
Jesse Helt, the homeless young man who was Miley Cyrus' date to the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards, has been sentenced to six months in prison for violating his probation.
Stephen Collins has been dropped from the Seth MacFarlane comedy 'Ted 2' after allegations of child molestation emerged today. TMZ has also learned more details regarding what triggered the investigation into Collins' past.
Taylor Swift talks her mentoring stint on 'The Voice' -- and a possible collaboration with Pharrell.


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Attend a Crohn's and Colitis Event
We have a vast network of more than 40 CCFA chapters and affiliates nationwide—each with its own volunteer board and Chapter Medical Advisory Committee. Each chapter brings the work of the entire Foundation to their local community. You can make a difference by connecting and participating with your local chapter.
Discover which of these support programs and activities are offered in your local community. Just search for our events by keyword or by city, date, or category.
- Join Take Steps Be Heard, our nationwide fundraising walk program that makes it possible for us to fulfill our mission and meet our goals.
- Test your limits with Team Challenge, our endurance training program.
- Send your child to Camp Oasis—our local and regional summer camps for children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
- Connect with others who are struggling to cope with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) through one of our 300 support groups.
- Attend live education seminars and programs geared for patients and health care professionals.
- Stay informed about upcoming seminars, support groups, and events in your local community through your chapter newsletter or national newsletter.
- Ride or volunteer for Get Your Guts in Gear: The Ride for Crohn's and Colitis to help support CCFA.
To find out more about all of our programs and activities in your area, contact your local CCFA chapter.
Search Events:
Royal Flush Casino NightNovember 7, 2014
8:00pm-12 Midnight | Nashville, Tennessee
Join us for the inaugural Royal Flush Casino Night on Friday, November 7 at the sleek, private club Citizen in downtown Nashville. The event will take place from 8:00pm-12:00am and will feature casino games, amazing food from Virago and other M Street concepts, music and a silent auction to benefit the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America's Tennessee Chapter. Experience the posh club that is typically off limits unless you are a member all while helping the 30,000 Tennesseans living with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
An Evening to Remember GalaNovember 8, 2014
6:00 p.m. | Scotia, New York
Gala Fundraiser
2014 IBD Education DayNovember 8, 2014
9 AM - 12:30 PM | Columbus, Ohio
Program in Columbus Ohio featuring updates on the latest in treatments, research, and management of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
A Touch of FootballNovember 8, 2014
9 am registration, 10 am games begin (event lasts until 4 pm) | Atlanta, Georgia
Join CCFA and play flag football in the Georgia Dome! This fall,20 teams will compete in a touch football tournament, on the field, under the lights, at the Georgia Dome – home of the Atlanta Falcons!
19th Annual Education Symposium for Medical ProfessionalsNovember 8, 2014
8:00 AM | Rosemont, Illinois
REGISTER NOW! 19th Annual IBD Education Symposium "IBD in 2014: Tackling the Tough Questions", offered by the Illinois Carol Fisher Chapter of the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA). This full-day accredited medical symposium will focus on medical, surgical and integrative approaches for managing inflammatory bowel disease. Russell D. Cohen, MD, Course Director
2014 Northwest Arkansas Take Steps WalkNovember 8, 2014
Registration at 10:00am, Walk at 11:00am | Rogers, Arkansas
Take Steps for Crohn's & Colitis is CCFA's largest fundraising event. Participants raise funds and awareness throughout the year and come together to celebrate the steps that have been taken towards a cure!
Take Control: Managing IBD DecisionsNovember 10, 2014
7-8:30 PM | Overland Park, Kansas
This free informational presentation and interactive question-and-answer session will outline the risk and benefits of various therapies for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Nursing Perspectives: Management of Inflammatory Bowel DiseasesNovember 11, 2014
6:30-8:00 pm | Atlanta, Georgia
Nursing Perspectives: Management of Inflammatory Bowel DiseasesNovember 12, 2014
6:30 PM | Troy, Michigan
A CNE activity for nurses and physician assistants involved in the care of patients with IBD
Denim & Diamonds Spotlight Dinner & AuctionNovember 13, 2014
6:00 pm
dinner and auction


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Featured Images
We update our image gallery regularly. Click here to register for free high-resolution images.
Story angles
From food to fashion, sustainability and business, we offer ideas on how to approach the Mother City.
Annual events
Cape Town plays host to a number of cultural and sporting events throughout the year.
Press releases
Cape Town tourism industry optimistic about upcoming holiday season
Visitor numbers for the upcoming holiday…
Cape Town Leads the Way in Responsible Tourism with International Awards and Conference
Cape Town is leading the way in…
Summer 2014/2015 Safety Preparations in Cape Town
As Cape Town prepares for a busy season,…
The best of summer 2014/2015 from Cape…
Cape Town Tourism Celebrates Ten Years and a Three Year Partnership
Cape Town Tourism celebrated its first…
Cape Town Government press releases
Contact us
Tel: +27 21 487 6800
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Twitter: @CapeTownTourism
Facebook: I ♥ Cape Town
See our media visit guidelines
Useful contacts
We've put together a list of useful contacts in the Cape Town area.


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Let's Make a Time-Lapse Video!
Mike Wilhelm - April 30th, 2012
If you spend much time on Twitter or the blogosphere, you've probably noticed the extreme number of time-lapse videos that are going viral around the web. What's the deal with their sudden popularity? I chalk it up to a number of factors. The first is that modern digital cameras can shoot time-lapse photos without a need for an external control device. Second is the recent popularity of compact camera sliders. Third is the fact that HDR (high dynamic range) photography is easier than ever to accomplish. Finally, the nature of the internet dictates that once a number of these videos goes viral, more and more people will jump on board.


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Wearing synthetic fabrics is a no-no if you're committed to saving the planet -- or even just wishy-washy about it. Most synthetics, for example polyester and acrylic, are based on petroleum, often with other goodies like natural gas or coal mixed in. See full article.
Explosive news from WGN America: The cable network has just renewed Manhattan, its dramatic...
Not every current coach is returning to�The Voice�next season. But before you freak out, don't...
People are changing Earth so much, warming and polluting it, that many scientists are turning to a new way to describe the time we live in. They're calling it the Anthropocene — the age of humans.
By Shayne LooperMore Content Now
A Dallas nurse infected with Ebola while treating the first patient diagnosed in the U.S. has received a plasma transfusion from a doctor who beat the virus.
Annalise's latest client is trying to get away with insider trading.Weeds alum
"You seem to have gone crazy since the last time I saw you,"�Jimmy Kimmel told�
Ironic that in a fall season where so many new romantic comedies are fighting for our attention, and maybe even our affection, I'm still waiting to fall in love. Maybe it's the Goldilocks syndrome of being necessarily picky: one's too gimmicky...
By Jeremy Costello More Content NowIt�s only four episodes into its first season, but already �Gotham� has created authentic, organic arcing storylines that are continuing to expand, breathe, compel and intrigue.
McDonald's launched a campaign aimed at people worried about what's really in McDonald's food. The "Our Food. Your Questions" campaign wants people to ask questions via social media about the quality of McDonald's...
- Events Calendar


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Jimmy Durante Meets the Lively Arts
TV Special
More in Television
TV Highlights
What's On This Week
A daily updated summary of the week in TV.
Program Overview
Genre: Variety
Program Synopsis
A variety outing in which comedian Jimmy Durante explores opera, art, drama, dance, and music.
What's On Tonight
- A Last-Minute Sensation
- Critic's Notebook: A Wrenching Grief Assuaged With Beauty
- Bunny Briggs, Tap Dancing Virtuoso, Dies at 92
- Shakespeare Folio Discovered in France
- On Comedy: Who's Winning? The Night's Quickest Wit
- Lewis Baltz, Photographer of American Landscapes, Dies at 69
- Chinese Artwork Brings Auction Record of $45 Million
- Is Our Art Equal to the Challenges of Our Times?
- Press Play
- ArtsBeat: Tate Museums Offer Minecraft Maps of Famous Artworks


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Carriage Hill Farms educates riders and expertly trains horses in equestrian sport. After decades of experience, we truly understand the complexities of horseback riding. Others can offer advice on energy-maximizing pony diets or the most aerodynamic riding positions. We do that and more; we offer the complete package. Carriage Hill Farms draws from modern research and advanced experience in the industry to train horses' and riders' bodies, minds, and spirits. We offer the most comprehensive equestrian education possible.
The typical stable manager can tell a new rider where to position their legs and what angle their back should be. We, however, expand upon the basics, teaching our pupils how to feel and breathe the horse, to intuitively gauge the perfect grip from the pulsing sinew of the animal below. Riding is just as much psychology as it is physics, and we understand every aspect there is to this sport.
Discover the true grace of equitation. Come to Carriage Hill Farms.
From the school horse to the Grand Prix Jumper,


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You don't have to look hard to see cases of holiday spending and gift-giving getting way out of hand. Even with the economic downturn some people are tempted to spend more than they can afford, often going into debt, during the holidays. Join me when HubPages columnist, Audrey Kirchner, shares gift-giving ideas that help restore the true meaning behind the gifts and go easy on the pocket and environment.
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New ITE-Samsung Tech Hub to enhance employability of ITE students
Located at ITE College East, this facility seeks to prepare ITE students in relevant courses for careers in the mobile and display technology industries.
Located at ITE College East, this facility seeks to prepare ITE students in relevant courses for careers in the mobile and display technology industries.
This partnership aims to enhance the capability of the Sentosa Express light rail system, with a new Wireless Signaling System (CBTC(1)) and another train set that comprises of two carriages.
This strong ambition has been inculcated since the start of a professional's career, with 84 percent of students and early professionals (fresh graduates) sharing the same view.
The IT services and support company will provide in-person and remote IT support services for all tech products in the home.
This forecast includes spending by the government on internal services, software, IT services, data centre, devices and telecom services.
The app will engage visitors through a series of interactive trails, games, educational tools and information about the Gardens' horticulture.
By doing so, students will gain the necessary skills and access to in-demand jobs within the network security industry
Budget, security and a shortage of skilled professionals to implement and run big data are the top challenges for organizations, the study reveals
Apple's wrist wearable won't ship for months, but three groups of people can't wait for it.
Out-of-stock smart wristband is designed to showcase Microsoft Health's open software.
More IT vendors will split up. Boards will get even more paranoid about security. UX and CX become critical competencies for CIOs.
We round up the best new tech gadgets and products for November 2014.
Don't let the festive season turn into a stress nightmare.
The company says it can pack double the number of bits in a die compared with its competitors.
Surface Pro 3, Dell and Acer laptops, Xbox bundles all marked down by Microsoft.
CIOs should look to start-ups for new ideas
With the latest Apple launch, the consumer electronics market leader is now fast following, not leading.
The iPhone 6 could be a good product, if 'good' is what you're after
Forrester's JP Gownder shares his expectations on the rumoured Apple's iWatch and the impact it will have on the workforce in this blog.
A summary of the Chinese Internet giant's development history, revenue streams, business expansion, and the impact it will have on digital services business value chain.
New high performance headsets and digital processors will help meet customers' increasing expectations, said Plantronics' Alvin Kiew.
A deafening buzz at Amazon's AWS re:Invent show and eye-popping AWS adoption numbers signal gathering momentum.
VMware's Laurence Si and Matthew Hardman together with IDC Asean's Roger Ling and VADS CEO Ahmad Azhar Yahya outline how Malaysian businesses are taking to the software defined environment path.
More IT vendors will split up. Boards will get even more paranoid about security. UX and CX become critical competencies for CIOs.
Dell, Asus, Lenovo, HP and Seagate computer products among those in Newegg Black Friday 2014 bargain bin.
Revenue growth stalled in 2013 but expenses climbed 42%.
Editor's Note: President Obama's executive order on immigration announced last night included several implications for H1B visas. Commentator Gary J. Beach, former publisher of CIO.com and CIO magazine and author of "The U.S. Technology Skills Gap," shares his opinions on why the H1B visa debate is a scapegoat for a much broader challenge facing the United States.
Apple's wrist wearable won't ship for months, but three groups of people can't wait for it.
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission has no public timeline for voting on proposed net neutrality rules, despite pressure from President Barack Obama and some net neutrality advocates.
Apple's wrist wearable won't ship for months, but three groups of people can't wait for it.
EY Malaysia's Jason Yuen: This year's global survey shows that more than a third of organisations have no real-time insights necessary to manage cyber threats.
Google said Friday that it will offer new Chromebook buyers a free terabyte of Google Drive storage for two years, which at present rates would be worth almost $240.
Information-Driven Security through RSA Security Analytics and RSA ECAT This paper explores the current state of enterprise security and reviews why organizations need to develop strong processes as well as what CISOs can do to better protect their organizations.
Which technologies are Singapore enterprises tapping on to get future-ready? Find out in this issue of SURF
TIBCO ActiveMatrix® BPM 3.0 helps your organization compete, disrupt, and innovate with new features that do more than improve work standardization and efficiency.
IBM has identified three key requirements storage must meet in order to effectively support analytics workloads: compelling data economics, enterprise resiliency and easy infrastructure integration.And FlashSystem delivers advanced technologies in each of these areas
In a world where everything is connected, the limits to innovation will fade away, offering inspired experiences for all, and enormous opportunities for businesses. To learn more about our vision of a better connected world. Download the white paper
CIOs in AP to increase spending on new technologies in 2015
Why it sometimes makes sense to go slow with mobile development
Top 10 tech industry megatrends of 2015
Newham CIO: What happens when you outsource app-build to a company that goes bust
CIOs in AP to increase spending on new technologies in 2015
Qualcomm to tap server market with the help of China
Google Play taps Chinese developers for paid apps, despite block
Blocked messaging app Line looks for comeback in China
To 'read' this fashion magazine, fire up your image-recognition app
Towards a smarter contact centre: Plantronics Malaysia launch
Affordable home-grown apps will help Malaysian SMEs boost productivity, say Microsoft and Ingram Micro
Towards 2020 in Malaysia: VMware interview
Landmark digital terrestrial TV deal in Malaysia
Encrypted sites perfect for hidden malware, Blue Coat Malaysia finds


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Jeb Bush, former Florida governor and possible 2016 presidential contender, said Congress should not use the current crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border as an excuse not to pass broader immigration fixes.
"President Obama has promised to once again act unilaterally if Congress fails to take up immigration reform," Mr. Bush and Clint Bolick, vice president for litigation at the Goldwater Institute, wrote in the Wall Street Journal. "Now is the time for House Republicans to demonstrate leadership on this issue. Congress should not use the present crisis as an excuse to defer comprehensive immigration reform."
Mr. Bush and Mr. Bolick wrote that the U.S. needs to close loopholes that let people be released from federal custody between immigration hearings and aside from those "deserving few" who might demonstrate true cause for asylum or protection from sex trafficking, unaccompanied minors streaming across the southern border must be sent back to their homes in Central America.
Greater engagement with the countries and clear communication that there will be "zero rewards" for people who send children to the U.S. are also necessary, they write.
"There is a reason and a need for compassion. These children are trying to escape horrific gang violence and dire conditions in their native countries," they write. "But the ease with which so many of them are illegally entering the U.S. underscores the inadequacy of our border security. We now have a humanitarian crisis on our southern border that demands strong leadership that respects the rule of law."
© Copyright 2014 The Washington Times, LLC. Click here for reprint permission.


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Friday, August 19th, 2011 at 6:00pm
All Ages
Performing with Gary Biddle and the "Rock And Roll Music Revue" from 7-10
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One-of-a-kind luxury condominium alternative. This single family home, a 5 bedroom renovated Carriage House, sits inside the prestigious Wheatsheaf Townhome development. Enjoy the ease of community living plus the exclusive use of a 1.3 acre lot, carefree.
The century old carriage house, built in 1910, belonging to the Gustav Kissel estate has been lovingly restored and renovated for today's family. Many elements from the original carriage house were incorporated into the transformation. The foot print of the structure remains the same, the exterior, constructed of red Hanover Brick, trimmed in limestone and blue slate with a granite foundation remains the same yet enhanced with a new front entrance and portico. The original interior sliding barn doors, exposed beams and brick walls also remain. Modern conveniences abound in the gourmet kitchen (Thermador, Miele, Sub-Zero) with its timeless Arts and Crafts style cabinetry and terra-cotta tile and brick flooring. Off the kitchen you'll find the mud room area, laundry, walk-in pantry and nanny/in-law suite. The front foyer is inviting with cherry plank floors and wide trim.
The living room dining room area is a spectacular space complete with a 32 foot façade over the central wood burning fireplace. Fun and games are waiting in the large family room highlighted by an original sliding door and square windows which once gave the horses light in each stall. A wet bar now stands in the original tack room. Multiple French doors lead to the professionally landscaped yard and blue stone patio.
Rising up the cherry staircase you reach the magnificent second floor great room which looks down the living room below. This grand space has built-in Cherry shelving, a desk on one side plus a den/ library area on the other, complete with the convenience of a small refrigerator.