D23!!!!! Disney New Releases.

This past week was very big for anyone who loves all things Disney. Disney has released major news at its Expo: D23. So, I am going to say grab a few rice balls because we need to discuss.  For those that do not know.  Disney holds its own convention where it premieres all its new movies, games, and future plans for the theme parks or just anything Disney. I of course am not going to go into everything mentioned during the expo but there are somethings that are worth mentioning.

What good would a Disney Expo be if it did not talk about upcoming movies?  Pixar and Disney Animation showcased an overview of the many movies that will be coming out in the 2015-16 year. Working toward the idea of diversity and inclusion, Disney discussed in detail the movie, "Moana". This is the new movie introducing the first Polynesian Princess. YAY!!! POC!!!! This is big for anyone of Pacific Island decent. Disney ran with this idea in picking their actors. Why not get the #1 celebrity of Pacific Island blood to star in the movie. Yes, I am talking about, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. This obviously was not the only movie discussed. Pixar also gave detail to big names such as Star Wars, Gigantic, The Good Dinosaur, Zootopia, Pirates of the Caribbean, Finding Dory (Finding Nemo 2), Frozen 2, and Toy Story 4!!! Its gonna be a big year for Disney movies. Especially, "Finding Dory" voiced none to than  Ellen Degeneres. 

Notice none of those movies include whats going on at Marvel (which had a separate presentation.) Crazy!!! I know!! In the Marvel presentation the movies Captain America, Black Panther, and Dr. Strange were given more detail to the plot. Disney studios also talked about many of its short films and a particular short film showing the journey of Walt Disney himself.  I love short films!!! They have the best stories.  I am ecstatic to see what beauty comes from these new animated shorts.

 If your a Broadway fan like myself. the next big Disney on Broadway will be Frozen. This does not excite me as much as the lead up to this announcement. Having the Broadway actors "The Originals" come out and sing songs from all different plays and movies. The would have been a better announcement if you ask me. a Broadway of just The Originals. But I'm just a idealistic dreamer. Lol.


Other big news at D23. Disney will be adding a STAR WARS THEMED LAND to Walt Disney World!!!!! This is amazing for any nerd or fan of the Star Wars franchise. You will be able to engulf yourself in the force. Fight light vs dark. Its going to be Dope! The ride possibilities in itself are enough to get anyone of any age excited. This is huge, and I am sure that Disney will do it right. I am excited to see what Disney magic will add to the Star Wars universe. Here's some concept art for what the park will look like.

In the video game realm, big news for all Kingdom Heart fans. The most infuriatingly anticipated game is finally coming out for the PS4 & Xbox One. Yes, I am speaking of KH3. Finally, the third installment for the main console, Kingdom Hearts game is finally in serious production and Disney along with Square-Enix is doing big things with the game. Personally, Kingdom Hearts still remains to be one of the best games I have ever played. Do not get me wrong. Its does have its cons, along with its pros but overall the franchise continues to peak my interest along with many others. The story-line tends to get a little confusing. The transition to the handheld made the story-line all the more difficult to follow but overall the game play is still amazing and the game itself is fun. It looked to be well worth the wait. But, outside of what was already showed at E3, (fighting style, new Tangled world, and new powers and graphics) KH3 made a big announcement the other day.

Yes!!!! KH3 will be incorporating a BIG HERO 6 WORLD!!!!! OMG!!! I am a huge big Hero 6 fan. One of Pixar's gems in its treasure chest. So now both franchises are able to give fans the greatness of Kingdom Hearts and BAYMAX!!!! Check it out below. 

POC in Pop Culture and Anime. Hey, They Look Like Me!!!

For over the last few months, I have been discussing the craziness, the changes, and debates happening in pop culture with many of my friends and nerds alike. So grab a rice ball real quick and lets discuss. There has been a long lasting issue regarding people of color (POC), and their representation within comics, movies, books, and anime. There is an unsaid ideology, that if what is being illustrated is not a POC centered tale then they should not be envisioned in the role. Even though the genre being discussed is fiction. POC tend to not be depicted within the larger realm of these areas. This was best shown when Amandla Stenberg was casts in the Hunger Games as Rue. The uproar from Hunger Games fans around the world was enormous. Rue is not black. This was the anger poured in from fans. Twitter was unmerciful. Why is this a issue though? What is American pop culture really saying?

In recent months, Marvel has taken strides to shape the way POC and female characters are being viewed within their franchise. DC Universe has taken those same strides, but in a different sense. As times progress so do the faces of these companies. These franchises, marvel more so than DC, have always tried to create some type of realism to their world to reflect our reality. Marvel has always been a front runner in the idea of superheros in our world. While, DC has taken itself away from our reality, while still being present in issues revolving American culture.

A once white dominated arena of heroism is now beginning to show some new faces, darker faces. DC Universe has never been one to reflect our own world/reality. DC likes to make stories from different dimensions which sets it apart from other comic book streams. They can create any story they want without back story to origin. The origin story begins within that dimension. Using this strength, DC has create a the DC Multiverse more specific Earth 23.  An alternative dimensions where all the superheros are black. All of them!!  As much as I like the Multiverse and Earth 23, I just need to take a moment.... because I cant. DC Universe continues to aggravate me when it comes to the idea of inclusion and diversity among its hero's. In the main dimension (The DC Universe), all hero's of color are side characters or tend to have the same ability. (I.e. Black Lightning, Thunder, and Static Shock all black characters centered around lightning abilities) Even though I love all three characters. Creativity tends to lack when it comes to POC in DC.

Marvel continues to play with the idea to reflect reality, and the feel of its audience while staying true to its core of what marvel is. Marvel  universe continues to make great strides in its commitment to diversity by changing the faces of our most beloved heroes. What better way to do this than to transform the the most symbolic character that this nation has to offer, Captain America. This is old news for many, but it still is very interesting. Captain American is now Black. I had this conversation with many of my friends and at comic-con last year.The Captain American mantle will be taken on by his close friend, The Falcon.  In the comic book series,  Steve Rodgers faces a  foe who drains him of his superpowers, rendering him an old and frail man. He then pass his stars-and-stripes shield to Sam Wilson, an ally who goes by the superhero name of the Falcon. Many know this character from in recent films such as: The Winter Soldier and The Avengers 2.

This is crazy!!!!  Captain America (Steve Rodgers) was the face of a American champion. He was everything America is suppose to be. White, blue eyed, blond hair, patriotic, strong, and pure dawned with a shield to protect. This depiction shows exactly what America wants to tell its children that the country is but also to the greater world in itself. So what message is being sent now that that face is black? Yes, a black face is the face of America. This is a message that scares and excite many people within this country. With this image, that is the statement being made. Yes, it was a bold statement to make. Not only Captain America, but a hand full of superheros are now changed to better fit the ideas of diversity and inclusive America. The America of 2015. Many other big name heroes include: Spider-man, (who is now mixed, Spanish and black) and Thor, (Caucasian female, challenging the ideals of masculinity).  Marvel continues to be the front runner when it comes to reflecting our reality, to make their fiction believable. But, this does not come without debate or push back. Many fans, critics, and nerds alike are against the idea of changing so many pivotal characters. They do have reasonable grounds to dispute the topic as well. Many of these characters, fans have grown up with for decades. Comics are so ingrained in American pop culture that new generations of kids, and fans can see their parents favorite superhero growing up, but as a real person. So to change so many characters, so quickly, needed to be explained. Which marvel has done well. Each change has its own back story, a believable back story, that can be widely accepted by fans even if they do not like the change. Marvel still has a long way to go but the attempts being made are worth mentioning.

The lack of POC stems into the anime world as well. Many of the characters are of Japanese or Asian decent, but are drawn as white or Europeans, with fairer skin. This ideology behind that is crazy! White is beautifully accepted. SMH. This is not a new idea. Many of our TV shows cartoons and older run with this ideology. But, what interested me more is the fact that I have been seeing POC with darker skin, popping up in many different main stream animes. Whether new characters are being introduced in already established anime, or new animes are being created to have a POC as the main character, a change is being made. Representation is being shown in animes such as One Piece, Naruto, Bleach, Machiko & Hatchin, etc.. even Dragon Ball Z made that move to show better representation as the anime evolved. POC went from being drawn as to how American society envisioned us (the picture above),  to actual character embodiment (the picture below). Drawing different ethnicities similar to how the main characters are drawn in the show, this is a gain. lol.

Within anime there are still many stereotypes that tend to be reflected inside the illustrations. Physical attributes and personality characteristics like rapping black characters, (Bee from Naruto) or Chinese characters with only lines for eyes. (Brock from Pokemon) This is another aspect that needs to be changed. However, as the future continues to move forward, anime continues to progress.

This progression shows the correct representation that is necessary. I for one am loving it, being the blerd I am. It is nice to see different faucets of entertainment and pop culture reflecting myself and the world we live in. Breaking down stereotypical attributed that are not accurate but drawing/ depicting all bodies of people, equally within their context, as characters in their respect genres of fiction. I'm just say, its nice when a little boy or girl of color, can watch a anime, or movie; or read a book, or comic and say, "Hey! My favorite super hero looks like me." That is a privilege many of us never grew up with. And, if there was a possibility the options were limited. I think its a dope progression.

But what do you think?

- Amni-Flux

Arrow is Raw?

Sooo who seen lasts nights RAW? I am and have been a wrestling fan for awhile now. I got back into it once Brock Lesner came back to the WWE. Because, [paul hayman voice] BRRRROOCCCKKKK LESNERRRRRR, IS A BEAST!!!! Anyways, last nights edition of RAW was very interesting to say the least. If your are a avid Arrow fan and follow Stephen Amell on Twitter, or his Instagram, or even just watch WWE; you knew he would be the special guest on last nights show. Since the announcement on WWE the plot was set. STARDUST (GoldDusts' brother aka Cody Rhodes) has been building a plot line/ rivalry revolving around comic book heroes. Continually, asking the question, "who will be my hero?"  and stating the phrase "embrace the weird". Creating a very Joker-esc identity known as The Prince of Dark Matter. So here we have our villain. This gave way to a lovely rivalry with the new found "superhero" from NXT (a stepping stone show for new wrestlers trying to get into the main show) Neville aka Red Arrow. As Stardust continues to try to find his hero, this set the stage for Amell. There has been banter between Amell and Stardust building tensions between them via Twitter. This was done not only to set the stage but to also build relevance and popularity for the event last night.  The banter was nothing more than silly talk and threats more toward Neville and referencing Amell.

Now, the real shocker is what happens once he was there. Amell decided to sitting in the audience, with the fans as a fan for the whole night. While watching the King Barrett vs Neville (Red Arrow) match this is what happened.

 

Stephen Amell has hops!! Once this happened Twitter, social media, and the WWE Universe lit up.Amell jumping the rope, speared Stardust, then continually punched him the face. This was sports entertainment done well. After the altercation Triple HHH (the CEO) spoke to Amell. Setting up the stage for something both WWE fans and Arrow fans would enjoy. 

Yup, another event for SummerSlam. Stephen Amell & Neville vs King Barrett and Stardust. I think this was a successful crossover of both franchises. Using the WWE stage, to create a storyline that keeps to the ideas of the comic book heroes, and the concepts within the Green Arrow storyline. Having Arrow himself team up with his known sidekick, but WWE version, Red Arrow (in the Green Arrow franchise also known as Speedy or Arsenal). This past Mondays event, definitely had all WWE and Arrow fans going crazy. I know I was entertained.I also enjoy the fact slowly WWE is going back to its roots and having celebrities involved in the franchise and shows. In the past this has been done with many different celebrities including Floyd Mayweather, Donald Trump, and many more. It has been awhile since this has happened so bringing that aspect back to the WWE is nice to see. And, it couldn't have been done at a better time. Superheros are very popular right now among pop culture. So I give my kudos, to the WWE writers for incorportaing this fad into their franchise. I am sure children and nerds alike are entertained by the tale of, The Price of Dark Matter. But, there will still never be a WWE hero as super as my man: THE HURRICANE. But, lets see what happens at SummerSlam in two weeks. :::Side note:: Am I the only one that thinks Stephens Amells' voice is awkwardly high? lol. Just a thought.

Tell me what you think comment or hit me on twitter.

-Amni-Flux

Heroes Reborn? Wait, I just started Heroes!

In recent months, many things has been catching my attention. From social issues, to popular culture, and personal matters. My attention has been wavering so it has been awhile since I have been able to grab a rice ball and talk about whats going on.  So, to my nerds, blerds, and geeks alike we have much to discuss. This past winter during the Superbowl. I noticed a fan favorite that everyone has been talking about since the commercial aired.  HEROES REBORN. The Super Bowl showed a trailer to the return of such a great TV show. Yes, I know I am horribly late. But, there is a reason I am talking about this now.

 

:::::::::::::::::::::::SPOILER ALERT FOR THOSE WHO HAVE NOT WATCHED THE SHOW:::::::::::::::::::::::



Before the times of GOT, ARROW, The Flash, and the rise of Netflix original series there was Heroes. I for one was not into the show. Being such a nerd, it was weird to why I wasn't into it. However, the last turtle crosses the finish line. I have recently just began the series and its good. Finishing the season, what I find most interesting are the concepts int he show.  But, what is most interesting to this show (again only on season 2). The first aspect to the show I like is the abilities "powers". As, any superhero, sci-fic show you look at powers and think which ones you would have. But Heroes has taken a different take on this concept. Yes, you have your basic powers (e.i flight, mind reading, invisibility etc...) But what is most interesting is the type of new abilities that are introduced. The power to understand how things work and adapt that ability. This is what makes the main villain (Sylar) so interesting. Is he evil? Yes, that's basic. But, the type of evil he is is interesting. Why his power is relevant is even better. If your ability was to understand and adapt would you know to look at the brain to gain power? Concepts like this makes the show intriguing. Also, the show takes on a very real world view to super-heroism. A plus is the show is more gory than I thought it would be. Many superhero tales or people with powers has a very superhero-esc feel to the story base. This is not the case with Heroes. The symbolism used for different characters I appreciate. The roach with Sylar, or the fact that "Jessica"(Nikki) kills by splitting her victims in two halves etc.. its all very well done.

So far, the biggest the weakness I found in the show was that the main protagonist, Peter,  is only relevant due to the stories of the other characters. Yes, he has his own story base but his is the link to making the plot relevant.  A full circle kind of tale. As much as I wish they kept all the people with powers as individuals they all cross paths early in the show due to necessity. It would have been cool if each "hero" had their own story base and you seen their growth through the progressing storyline. Then in time unite them to a main plot. Another fun aspect to the show is guessing who is a  hero and who is a villain. This may be a basic idea, but the show does not tell which is which except for  selected characters:  Hiro, Sylar, and Peters' personal intention. The ambiguity to this leaves a open plot to shape almost any character any way. This makes the show entertaining as well. Overall so far I am enjoying the show. Hit me on twitter tell me what you think.

-Amni-Flux

Black Cosplay of White Characters? Cool or Nah?

So NY Comic-con is slowly creeping toward us and I have the slightest idea of who I should cosplay this year. Last year I chose to be Ash's Squirtle Pokemon and my sister and I rolled deep as Squirtle Squad! (FYI, this was Bryce's awesome idea. Can't take all the credit.) We loved it, the fans loved it. Literally, we were celebrities for a day. Check us out...

Since last year was such a success, I've got to start preparing my costume and getting things ready. It took ALOT of time to make that Squirtle shell (Yes, we made them from scratch!) and I'm no Martha S. Also, the glasses alone took 3 weeks to come in from Etsy. Crazy! If you want to look good, you can't do anything last minute.

Shout out to the professional cosplayers who do this stuff a year in advance!

I believe this was made at a makeup school. Impressive!

I've been thinking about who I should be for several months now (actually ever since the Comic-con gods blessed us with 3-day passes) and I'm still stuck. Partly because I feel forced to play a black fiction character. 

Is it me, or do many of us blerds have a dilemma with this? In my head, the nerd in me totally wants to represent the character as they should be. Whites play whites, blacks play blacks, asian plays asian. But then I'm also like, "Who the hell cares??? Let love live and play who you want!"

I feel like I struggle with this every year.  Mind you, I did play Batgirl one year, although, technically, it felt more like playing dress-up for Halloween since the effort for it was minimal. 

I remember going to a Heroes of Color panel at NY Comic-con a couple years ago to discuss this same topic and a plethora of other topics pertaining to the lack of diversity among superheroes. From the cosplay aspect, what came out of it was that people should be who they want, how they want without the negativity or the nerd bashing. People need to be less judgmental and more open-minded. It starts with you. 

This is all true, but yet I still struggle and feel inclined to cosplay a black character. I'm curious what other people's takes are on this? Are my feelings based on nerd character loyalty or purely my own prejudice?

While you think on that, let me tell you about the characters I've been thinking about. I haven't made any final decisions, these but have been floating around my head:

Yoruichi - Bleach

At first I was like, no, she is waaay out of my league, but I've been looking at pics and I think I can pull it off. (If I play her fully clothed. Ha!) 

Bumble Bee - DC Universe/Teen Titans

Bumble Bee is so easy for me to do. Wings? Easy, just go to my nearest Halloween store. Leggings? Got'em. At most, I'll need the shirt, yellow sunglasses and golden wrist-lets. I'll also have to lose about 10lbs for that shirt, though. Lol!

 Vixen - DC Universe

I haven't thought about Vixen until recently when The CW released the Vixen trailer at SDCC. It was so dope. Haven't seen it yet? Click here. I was thinking of probably doing the Justice League version as well. The other version might work out better for my hair, though.

All in all, I'm still deciding on what to do. I need to make a decision soon since I'm running out of prep time. 

As far as my racial dilemma with white characters, I'm not completely against cosplaying a white character, but like I said, I'd just rather not. Fiction characters of color don't get enough play as it is, so why not represent? Who else will? 

My TV Show Quickies

Hi my geeks and freaks! Did you miss us? I know, I know...it's been awhile. Almost a year, actually. Sorry about that. Life happened and we will never leave you again. Never. We are soo sawry.


So, let's talk about what we love best...TV! Is it just me, or has TV just been AWESOME lately. Like, really really awesome. Better than some movies out. (I blame Netflix.) Btw...does anyone else find pure joy in an all night (sometimes all weekend) Netflix binge? It's like the sour cream to my taco. Pure. Joy.

Instead of going through all of the TV shows I've watched and providing a long drawn out review, I've decided that I'm just going to give you guys a quick update about some of the shows without spoilers (because we absolutely hate them). And when I say quick...I'm talking barely sentences. Here we go...

Game of Thrones - Best. Show. Of. All. Time. Watch it, like, right now. Season 5 is beast.

The Blacklist - Pleasantly surprised at how entertaining this show is. Red is a funny dude.

Supernatural - Binged from Season 1 and enjoyed every moment. Dean can get it, ijs.

Orange is the New Black - Ehhh. Season 3 was blah. I already forgot what happened.

Sons of Anarchy - Finished Season 7 and I don't think I've ever been more angry and sad at a show.

Akame ga Kill - Please, please, please make a Season 2! Women assassins rock!

Graceland - My guilty pleasure. Very unrealistic but makes me want to hangout in Cali.

The Fall - Yo, this ish is cray. It's only 6 episodes but it's good.

The Walking Dead - Same type of ish but entertaining nonetheless. Carol is killin'em, literally.

Empire - Another guilty pleasure. Poor acting and plot lines, but Oh is there drama! Yes, please.

All right, I think I'll end here. If I think of more, I'll update the list. I'm pretty sure there are more but these are my top 10. I'll post another quickie soon. My TV stays turnt.

Beg to differ? Let me know on Twitter - @Riceball_NeeNee I'm a newbie so please be nice.

~Peace

A "Darker than Black" Saturday

So, this past Saturday was Laundry Day which actually means I either do a month's worth of laundry or just go naked....ugh! I. Really. Hate. Laundry. I had to do about 10 loads! It really, really, sucked. (Ok, you can stop playing your damn small violin now.) Anyways, the good part about Laundry Day is the fact that while I'm sorting through mounds of dirty clothes and taking my time folding, I can binge through TV shows!

For awhile, I've been on the lookout for new anime to watch that's interesting yet action packed. Recently I came across a comment on FB mentioning "Darker than Black" to be a pretty awesome show. So, I gave it a chance. 

Here's my review after watching all three seasons: 

Honestly, I'm still confused about this show. Bones, the creator, leaves you with so many unanswered questions and open-ended conclusions. I hate doing this, but I actually had to look through forums just to make sure I actually understood what was going on! And even after all the blog reading and comment trolling I still don't really feel like I get it. But the funny thing is...I want more!

To give you a sense of the plot without giving away any spoilers, the show is set in the future where from out of nowhere a gate called "Heaven's Gate" arrives in South America and a gate called "Hell's Gate" arrives in Tokyo. When the gates arrive they remove the current sky and put in place a "fake" one where each star represents the life of a Contractor. Contractors are humans who were given psychological powers when the gates appeared. Also, the presence of the gates caused some humans to turn into Dolls; unemotional beings used by Contractors who are able to track the whereabouts of others by projecting themselves through physical objects, such as water or glass. Contractors are currently being used by the government and other high powered organizations as weapons. They have no emotions and can only think rationally. Because of their powers, they make great assassins. They are called "Contractors" because in order to use their power they must fulfill a "contract", also known as a "remuneration", which requires them to do very odd tasks, such as flip shoes over, smoke a cigarette, or give someone a kiss. (Yes, very weird show so far, right?)

The main character of the show is Hei. He is an assassin working for a team called "The Syndicate". He has several team members who help him with his missions, my favorite being Mao.

Hei is sooo badass! I loved his moves and how quick he was (even though for the life of him he could never keep his mask on...like honestly what was the point of it?) There is also a perfect mix of gore to go with the action. It isn't overbearing as I've seen in some other anime shows. The action sequences though are pretty dope, and music to go along with it was rightly chosen. Check this out...

 Action aside, the point of the show, I guess, is to follow Hei as he goes through life as a Contractor tackling his internal demons and memories from his past. You also try to learn about the gates and why all this happened. This is the part I'm not really clear on but some forums helped me get a better understanding. You also learn about how humans, overall, especially in Tokyo are dealing with this phenomenon.

I loved this show! Hopefully, Bones comes out with another season. I mean, he really has some explaining to do. As I could tell from the reaction in various forums, we're just all too confused. Reading through all the philosophical interpretations hurt my head!

The action was great and the plot was moving. Season 2 is my favorite because of how they showed Suou's transition into being a Contractor. Plus she had awesome chemistry with July which was too cute!

I don't want to give away too much, but hit me if you want to chat about it. Otherwise, check it out. It's definitely worth the time.

Other anime I'm watching:

Sword Art Online II
Akame ga Kill!

DO NOT SEE TMNT 2014! You've Been Warned!

Bryce, I'm sorry to say that TMNT was incredibly whack! You were completely spot on from the terrible plot, the horrible acting of Megan Fox, and the twisted re-vamped look of all the main characters. Fifteen minutes into the movie and I was checking my watch to see how much time was left. IT WAS SOOO WHACK! It took everything in me (and the fact that I spent $7) not to get up and leave! It definitely should have went straight to TV. Nickelodeon should have done a TV special instead of shoving it off to theaters. Unfortunately, they did make $96 million over the weekend and decided to come out with a sequel. Ha! How you like those Michael Bay apples?!?

I was highly disappointed, but from what I hear, kids seemed to like it. Of course they don't know any better, but hey, it's for the kids right? Unlike you, I thought the voice actors of the Turtles were horrible and that the humor was lacking. I really wish the plot focused more on the Turtles and their personalities versus April. No one cares about her! I feel like the story was directed to an audience who already knew them, which in my opinion was a mistake. The movie should have been called, "April and her Ninja Turtle Friends", especially because they were revealed to be her "pets". How infuriating!!

I'm sad that I never got to see the 90's versions. I may have to do an illegal movie night to see them. I heard they are a little corny but legendary compared to the garbage I saw this past weekend! Everyone, please go see Guardians of the Galaxy instead...i'm just saying.

This brings me back, man, to Saturday Morning cartoons! The good ol' days!

Ninja Turtles?? Really?? Can we talk about this?

Jeneen!! Can we please talk about Ninja Turtles because I am feeling some type of way. When I first heard of another ninja turtles movie I was excited. The idea that they were going to make them live action (which I will address in a min) made me even more excited. And then I seen the trailer... and this was my reaction.

SIGH....... there are a lot of things I want to say, but let me show you the best trailer I seen thus far before I do.

This trailer was the best I seen and still there is nothing that makes me want to spend money to watch this movie. Red Box maybe, HBO definitely, movies no. I have a couple of issues with the whole concept. First of all when I seen Michael Bay was making the movie I was like okay cool, not a bad choice I am a fan of him to a certain extent. But then I seen her.... The beautiful woman who messes up every movie she's in becuz she can't act to save her life... Meagan Fox.  Then I thought about it... Oh yeah Michael Bay smh. So I'm pissed she's April. Why!!??? Out of all the actresses known and unknown Megan Fox is April. Really? Sigh... But still it can still be a cool movie thought its live action its been a min since anyone has mad a live action Ninja Turtle Movie. I think the last one was in like 1993 or something like that. Since that time every movie has been animated. Some good, Some bad but animated non the less. So the concept of it being live action is a plus in my book. But then I heard the plot ... Sigh..... for those that do not know the ninja turtle story (I speak to the youth and ninja turtle aware people)  Story time!!!!!!

The ninja turtles were not created because the city need a hero, as stated in the movie, which sounded a lot like Batman. The were a accident made by a evil alien race called the Krang. They spilled a mutation goo that mutated a man into a rat and 4 turtles that... The rat man (Master Splinter) raised the mutant turtles as ninjas because that's what he was and his discipline. Once the turtles were teenagers they wanted to go out and help people as real ninjas do at night. But master splinter wanted them to stay low key because they were suppose to be hiding from splinters enemy the shredder (i will address this in a moment). this is where the concept of Teenaged Mutant Ninja Turtles comes from. 

Okay, back to my rant. Now Shredder seems to be a robot.. this pisses me off. He is not a robot that has all these knifes, he is a ninja. And a beastly one at that. If shredder had all that armor on, how could he move or be as quick as he is in the animated series, tv series, old movies, comics,  and animated movies? HMMMMMMM????? smh sigh...

The last thing that I wanna discuss is the turtles. They looked dope and ugly at the same time. First off their shells seem to big. Like they all look hunch backed. Their personalities and voices are great. I am a fan of a good voice actor. So everything about them is really cool they just look ehhhh... I can really get with the program, I can look past the idea of a ugly mutated ninja turtle. But the plot is whats really hurting me rite now and the fact Meagan Fox is in the movie pisses me off... But I do wanna give big ups to Whoopi Goldberg still finding work. Yes, Whoopi Goldberg is in the movie. 

I don't know her role but she's in there. Haven't seen her since Sister Act hahah or Ghost. (I don't follow her work hahaha) Jeneen I am disappointed... I hope I am wrong and the movie is really good because I am a ninja turtle fan but I am going to need you to tell me if I should see it or not cuz I'm sure you will before I do. 

Hunger Games Series

I finally started reading the Hunger Games Series and I must say I am impressed... Yes, I know... I'm very late but give me some credit. I was finishing my Master (which I have completed.... round of applause ::bows::) and job searching. So there has been a lot on my mind. But, to take me away from my everyday struggle was the horrific struggle of Katniss Everdeen. This girls life sux haha. But it is a really good book series.

Sadly, I watched the movies before reading the books so I kind of knew what to expect. If you haven't read or watched I won't spoil anything however book two was LIVE!!!!! FINNICK ODAIR IS MY DUDE!!!! And I truly believe that Finnick Odair is really Aquaman. Boom!! I said it and I'm sure I'm not the only one who believes this.

 I can really see him playing a young Aquaman if they ever made a movie or a tv series. (hint hint DC)  I know, I know its cliche but how he is described in the book, and how he is depicted in the movies both scream I AM AQUAMAN lol.

Look how can you not see it. Even in the face ... yup he's Aquaman. ....Anyways

What I am enjoying most about the series and the movies is the difference in perspectives. The book series really takes the reader deeper into the perspective of a teenage Katniss Everdeen. This becomes annoying. Basically you have a front row seat into the mind of Katniss as the world continues to change around her. How the trauma of the games is and has continued to affecting her, and lastly her personal thoughts and feeling about the different characters. which was so interesting. It was annoying as hell. Reading every little feeling a teenage girl has about boys is such a good read. It kept me glued to the pages.  The movies bring a real world perspective. The movies are not so much in Katniss's head but more showing whats happening around her and how she reacts to different circumstances. For example a riot may break out and in the movie they will show the riot and how the district is under attack. Where in the book Katniss will not learn about whats happening around her until the her personal issue is settled or has calmed. Both do a great job bringing the idea and the series of the Hunger Games to life.

Anyways, overall I am digging the book series its really dope. I have just started the last book and am trying to finish it before the 3rd movies comes out. The trailer has been released so if you haven't seen it check it out ... It really didn't get me to excited but .. each movie was really good so I'm not worried.

Even More Talk About Korra

So I just learned Nickelodeon will no longer be showing Avatar the Legend Of Korra Season 3. Apparently,  last weeks San Diego Comic Con announced that Nickelodeon will be pulling the final 5 episodes.

Like everyone else I thought this was due to the low rating of the show. However, I was very much wrong. Nickelodeon agreed that majority of the Korra fan base watches online so that's what they are going to do. They are bringing it to digital copy.  It will be 100% online and only accessible online. As I stated before I was having trouble recording the series on my DVR.  This was the resin why. Soooooo anime watchers BACK TO THE ANIME SITES WE GO!!!! You can also watch on Hulu and Nicks website but you'll have commercials. There is a kicker tho. Only one episode will be released every Friday at 12p.m. until the season finale. A lot when down at SDCC and I'm still learning new things everyday so .... well keep u updated.

New Look, New Feel

Okay,

So the blog is going through maintenance. My sister and I are trying out a new look. We are trying very hard to revamp the blog, so if you have any suggestions comment and let us know. Honestly, I'm digging the colors but something is missing. Hmmmmm....????

Comic-con 2014 Happenings...*sigh*

Although my bro and I sadly could not attend Comic-con 2014 in San Diego this year (due to the epic fail of the ticketing process), here is a great article by The Verge talking about what went down in Comic-con heaven:

32 things you need to watch, read, and know from Comic-Con 2014

Hopefully my bro and I will get our chance next year! Bryce, we will not fail!!!

update: More greatness from SDCC posted on Buzzfeed...

The 21 Most Amazing Things That Happened At Comic-Con This Year

~Neen

Sooooo lets talk about Korra

Hello Hello Hello!!

Its been awhile.... Sooooooooo Jeneen lets talk....

Ok, I am really feeling Avatar Legend of Korra season 3 "Change." Its SOOOO GOOOOOOD. I can not explain how excited i am for watching the new episodes. I'm pissed that my DVR is acting up recording them. SMH the struggle continues. But in all seriousness this season is going hard. For those who have not yet seen this season or have not watch the series. Your Slacking. There are so many elements (no pun intended) that I wanna speak about so yeah this is gonna be a long convo lol.

1) Can we all give it up to my main man, my boy VERIK!!!! Once I seen him I had the same expression as Bolin.

Just seeing him made me so happy lol. The man has style and is by far one of my favorite characters.  Jeneen I know your thinking I'm dumb but ... BUMP YOU !!!! HES DOPE. Also,  I can identify with him... I am to Verik as Julie is to Brittany.. (Shout out to Brittany)...But, Verik also in recent episodes tends to be the key to get others to think outside the box. Making him a pivotal character in the series giving it the charm it needs. Other characters with such charm also adore my man i.e. Bolin, Sokka if he was around, I bet even Toph would enjoy the man ... He's just all around great.

2) I love that they are going into depth about metal bending. Such a great concept and creating a colony for metal benders.

  

I love how they did it, making it Tophs village. Marked by metal flowers and the "safest place in the world" soo cool. Oh yeah and Verik just happen to be chill in there ... Win, win situation lol.  They are truly going into a lot more of the core of what Korra is and the world around her. And for that I thank you. Bringing back older characters, introducing new characters, and discussing the mark that the older characters made in the world to bring it to what it is today. 

3) Can we please speak about the concept of harmonic convergence and how it dramatically affected the world not only wight he spirits but with the AIR BENDERS!!!!... sry spoilers ..... But that's soo dope ... air benders are back and Kai it my dude ... I am a strong fan of Kai he has a lot of swag but also his relationship with tenzons' daughter ... lovely .... 

4) The villains tho!!!!! Jeneen the villains of this season are beast. The water bender is a beast and the fact that she has no arms just is so great :::stands and gives a round of applause::: 

The lava bender. I haven't even heard of that. So technically he is a fire/earth bender.. or is he .... like together their a beast squad and I'm just so happy with how this season is going..... Korra is my shyt tire now.

Shameless! A Short but Sweet TV Review

O.M.G! So this past weekend I had the chance to binge through Season 4 of Showtime's Shameless. Man, do I miss this premium channel! Too many good movies and shows. Unfortunately, our cash flow isn't the same as it used to be so we had to cutback. (We preserved HBO and Starz for GOT and Spartacus...but now that it's over there might be some changes...hmmm...well, except for HBO. I think we would die before we give that up!) I've been a groupie for Shameless since Season 1, and now that the entire fourth season is over and readily available On Demand, I had to give in to the dark lord Comcast and order Showtime for three days only. I think prorated it's like $.67 cents a day (if you don't count the $1.99 service fee). I'll take it!

And oh my, was I rewarded. Hands down the best drama on TV. I laughed. I cried. I got angry and almost started flipping couches! (No couches were actually harmed.) I know some of you would argue that GOT is the best show on television presently...but after watching Season 4 of Shameless, I'm starting to wonder if I actually love it more!

So for the "nitty gritty", I think Emmy Rossum as Fiona deserves some type of award for her acting on this show. I mean she pulls off situations so well and is so believable when she does. I don't know how many times I cried not because I'm a softy because the situations felt so real. I'm not one for spoilers so I won't give anything away. What I will say is that she deserves a standing ovation and at least an Emmy nod!

Also, I think the actor who plays Carl, Ethan Cutkosky, really showed some character depth. I was impressed! I loved that he had more of a role this season compared to the last couple seasons. It's cool to see the younger kids growing up and how Fiona is now dealing with teenagers instead of kids anymore.

Lastly, will Frank just die already! So tired of this dude. I know he makes the show so it would be difficult to kill him off...but he is starting to annoy me (and maybe that's the point?...Hmmm...Well done, William H. Macy, well done. I really hate you).

I'm so excited for next season and really pissed that I have to wait until next January (that's only if I get Showtime back. It will be June if I don't...first world problems).

If you watched it, let talk about it! If you haven't go see that ish!!! You will love it!

~Neen

Arrow is my Hero!

Originally I had given up on the show Arrow which comes on The CW because the cornyness was just soooo overbearing!! I felt like the plot wasn't going anywhere and dude was just overall annoying. I tried though. I watched 7 episodes religiously before just stopping altogether.

Luckily my boyfriend is the type to never truly give up on a show. He continued to watch every Wednesday night and kept watching when the new season premiered just a couple weeks ago. I watched one episode with him last week, got super confused, and decided to catch up on my own because the episode was sooo good. Now I'm addicted!!! Why did I stop watching???

With Marvel making big bucks on their characters, DC Comics is finally following suit. Not only is there going to be a Batman/Superman movie soon, but DC Comics has decided to use Arrow to create a live DC Universe. Which is what I like most about the show. You never know who is going to turn up next!

So, because I had to catch up I had to watch season one and the amount of DC Comics' characters blew my mind!!! I'm not an avid comic book reader and I truly wish I was. These characters are great and have so much definition to them. From Huntress to Black Canary, Speedy (of course he would be in it), and Slade/Deathstroke, its orgasmic. If Flash shows up, I think I will die.

I never saw Smallville and from what I've been told, this show had a similar premise of incorporating characters from the DC Universe. Thank God for Netflix! I will be catching up as soon as grad school gives me a break!

Have any of you guys watched this show? And are there any other DC shows you're watching? Let me know...I'm on a DC Comics kick right now and I can't get enough!

~Neen

Christmas came early...

Its been about two weeks since New York Comic Con ended and what a day that was! All I can say is...Geek Paradise! I had the best time with my peeps and I can't wait to go back next year. So here's a clue to who we dressed up as...

Yep, the infamous Harley Quinn, Robin, and Batgirl...HAHAHAHA! (My sister's smile is priceless!) And of course who would my brother be? None other than...

Bane!!! Well, as he called himself, "Black Bane". His costume was the best. Sooo many people wanted to "fight" him! Especially Batman...

And Nightwing...

And, of course, he won in the end. Even WE were no match for his EVIL!!!

But for some reason he was no match for Mr. Vader...

I can't possibly put up pictures from the number of cosplay that we saw. People truly are amazing when it comes to formulating their costumes. I found pics on Entertainment Weekly that captured a lot of the greatness of what that we saw. Check it out! If you want to see more of our pics, friend us on Facebook... NeeNee Jones & Bryce Jones

Aside from the cosplay, we did hit up a couple panels and walk the exhibition hall. We tried to get into the Korra panel and all I have to say is NYCC staff please GET IT TOGETHER!!! Apparently we thought we were waiting in line to see Korra because one of the workers told us it was the line, and when we finally get to the front they start passing out Archer hats (yea, that corny animated show on FX) . I was like, WTH?!?! Who cares about Archer??? As we took our seats, I decided to ask another worker dude whether this room was for the Legend of Korra panel...and come to find out...it's not  -_- .  So, we haul ass to the correct room hoping we can still get a spot in line and it was an epic fail. The panel already started and they stopped letting people in. We sat outside the show watching the greatness happen, like elementary school kids who couldn't go out for recess *tear*. The good thing is that the big screens were large enough to see, so although we couldn't be a part of the panel, we were able to see the first part of the Wan intro that was released as a special screening. That was great! But then we got kicked out from the doorway after it was over, which sucked.

The exhibition hall was great. A lot of people everywhere and sooo much stuff to buy. Next time I go I have to make sure to have a plan of which booths to hit. If you don't have a plan you kinda just walk aimlessly in circles for hours in awe of everything that you see. I did get the one thing I had my eyes on...my Tony Tony Chopper doll!!! Yay! If I get a chance I'll post a pic later of it. It brings joy to my little heart.

My brother bought a lot of stuff from Artist Alley. They were really sweet paintings. Like I said before, people are really serious about their craft! Maybe I can get my bro to post pics of what he bought (note to Bryce when he reads).

The highlight of the night was attending the Arkham Origins panel. The new Joker is truly amazing and brought chills to my spine when he did a monologue from one of the Batman comic book series (Sorry, I can't tell you which one, I don't read comics enough...my bad).  I have to steal the clip my bro posted on his Facebook, but I'm sure you can hear the entire thing on YouTube.

My fellow Riceballs, if you live on the east coast and have not had a chance to go to NY Comic Con...what the HELL are you waiting for???? It literally is the best thing on earth for diehard fans. Bring your wives, husbands, boyfriends, girlfriends, kids, dogs, cats....whoever! Just go I tell you!!!

Can't wait to buy my ticket for 2014. And if the stars align, I'll also have a trip booked to San Diego next July...

~Neen

NY Comic Con Next Weekend!!! Woohoo!

So, it's been awhile since my brother and I posted our nerdiness on the site. We have both been soooo busy, and after I've been away for so long I finally have some time to jot my thoughts down.

What's on my mind? Nothing but NY Comic Con!!! O.M.G! I can't believe its next week!

What makes me sad is that our plan to dress up was an epic fail...so we'll just be another number in the crowd. Originally, our plan was to go as Young Justice...I would be Rocket and my bro would be Aqualad. We had others on board too...Bumblebee, Superboy, and even Zatanna! Oh, wells! There is always next year.

What I'm looking forward to the most...*drum roll*

KORRA!! I finally get to meet the crew!!! I'm so in there!!! Don't care if I have to jack someone up for a spot!

I also can't wait to see...

Well, actually I can do without Teen Wolf but I know someone rolling with us who loves this show!

And of course the Cosplay is going to be on point as always. I can't wait to take a lot of pics and buy a lot of random Anime-ish! (espcially my Chopper doll *swoon*)

Until then, everyone else be jealous that you don't have a ticket...cuz you know you really are!

~Neen

Toonami Faithful

Okay so i have been ghost for awhile but finally i have time and ready to come back to rice ball soooo sup haha....

In any case over the past few weeks i have been catching up on my anime/movies and first thing first, I wanna give a shoutout to one of my Fav programs Toonami. I have to give it up to adult swim they really are coming hard with the new version of Toonami, requested by fans. When if first came back as a april fools joke, that set off a trigger and yeah fans went crazy. So together, Toonami faithful, got it back and i must say WELL FUCKING DONE cuz they are doing the damn thing. As Toonami gains more rep/ sponsors they continue to revamp the program. (which they said they would) They brought back classic characters and changed the whole look of Tom, the ship, and Sarah (don't know if thats really her name ill check and change later) and in all honesty it looks fucking sexi. Its a lot more futuristic and has a cool design. But the best thing about it is its promos. I love how they combine the different animus to tell a story or get a point across.. Also, introducing new anime through a over arching theme ... Honestly shits sexi...the newest one is called Criminal Threats 4.0 

Crazy thing is that isnt even the best one that I seen ... but Toonami is coming back something fierce. They are bring back classic anime's and newer anime's, As Tom says, their mission is to bring us a better cartoon show. (and for that I thank you) But the new lineup is fucking dope. You cant be mad when they have almost every mainstream anime being played its just a good 3-4 hours of TV hahah. The fact that they are playing the explicit versions (cursing and such) shows that they are trying to appeal to a older demographic.  But i would like to applaud Toonami for bringin back One Piece!!!!

:::ROUND OF APPLAUSE PLEASE::: This was a big win for Toonami ... and its in HD sadly they have to start 200+  episodes in but still LETS GO!!!! American voices are annoying but still LETS GO!!!! When i seen this i was soooooo fucking happy haha One Piece just makes me happy. But it didn't stop there. TOON FUCKING AMI (im getting hyped) came and thru every1 a curve ball. These mofo's brought Sword Art Online to the mix.

Now I haven't watched this show yet but it was on my list of anime's and its again in HD there is nothing better than watching anime in HD on a 40+ TV ....just saying, just saying... So now I have to watch SAO in english and japanese cuz my friends told me the Japanese versions are better. But still im happy it made it to the line up. 

Toonami is making big moves and im not mad about it .... they adopted Soul Eater to the mix and so many others. I wouldn't be surprised if they bring back Code Geass and Gurren Lagann :: wishful thinking:: but yeah man im excited to see the future of Toonami .... Lets bring it back to week nights!!!!!!  but yeah lets see what happens

-Bryce

Thoughts on One Piece

Hey People!!!

It's been awhile! How is everyone's summer going?

So far mine has been full of One Piece. In the last couple weeks I've watched about 130 episodes and still counting...I've watched soo much One Piece that now I dream of pirates, the Grand Line, and epic Luffy quotes. (c'mon! you have to admit he has some damn good quotage)

Hahaha! It actually makes me want to BE a pirate. I can do what I want, when I want, how I want. I won't have to worry about going to "work" everyday, just live life on the open sea, not knowing where to go next. Just me, good friends, and adventure...Life would be AWESOME!

BUT...unfortunately I roll as the eternal "9 to 5er" with a cubicle corporate life. Ehhh...it's not so bad...I don't have to worry about dying every day...but... i am dying... slowly...everyday

There are sooooo many episodes and I'm sooooooo far behind. I know I won't catch up before the end of the summer. Right now I just finished the Arabasta arc with Crocodile (which btw his laugh is hilarious!). I wanted more out of that fight but its good to see that Luffy can evolve and so my brother says things are gonna get crazy with the fighting. Can't wait.

To be honest, I'm still a really heavy Naruto fan and as I watch I compare this show to Naruto...Luffy and Naruto are kinda the same...and some of you are probably thinking...

But I can't help it!!! They are so similar...now if u asked me who would beat who in battle? I'm not sure. I'm much further along in Naruto than I am in One Piece and from what I hear Luffy's power potential grows to be amazing! I just like that they are just so passionate about their goals and friendships. 

What I can say, out of the entire show, so far my favorite character is Tony Tony Chopper!!!!! He is just too cute...and yes...its a probably a girl thing...but I want one!!! 

I'm so buying this at NY Comic Con!!! 

I don't know if it is his voice or just because he is so tiny...lol...he is just too adorable. I. LOVE. HIM!

All right...enough about One Piece for now...just had to get some of that out. I've come across so many One Piece fans as I sit in the computer lab at night watching episode after episode and people are dying for me to watch more so that I can get to the extra good parts worth talking about. 

I love my nerd fam! Shout out to you!

~Neen