The Weekly Chronicles

Pop culture guru, Netflix aficionado, Gamer, Sports fan, Media commentator, Music consumer, all-round Geek. Read my many ramblings below.

[theweeklychronicles]

Lightyear (2022 movie review)

To infinity, and beyond! 

Or... as far as we can see from this foreign planet Buzz and co have been stuck on?

This Toy Story spin-off allows us Gen Y-ers to continue living nostalgically through the characters that we grew up with and loved, however this movie is set in the place of 1995, being the movie that inspired Andy to see Buzz as his childhood hero and favourite toy (sorry, Woody). It is supposed to be the movie that Andy grew up loving and the inspiration behind the Buzz toys being such a phenomenon for children his age, akin to a Barbie to young girls, or X-men toys for all little 90s boys.

However, the movie leaves you with more questions leaving the cinema than you had entering it. Without spoiling any major plot lines, The time-space continuum is constantly referenced as Buzz balances friendship, teamwork and pure determination to repair his ship and return to earth, versus the dual-concept of time which he battles as those around him age faster than he does the many times he is quite literally, lightyears away on mission.

Characters voiced by notable stars like Chris Evans, Taika Waititi and Keke Palmer, as well as some other actors you’ll question familiarity of, there are many easter eggs for Toy Story fans and great parallels to be drawn to the prior movies. 

Buzz’s main tagline as we know it, “To Infinity, and beyond”, is a line of strong conviction and great glitz, however the delivery they chose in this movie is too touching and whilst it’s nice the quote is continued through this prequel, I question why the chance to have the child friendly, inspirational heroic tag line delivered with stoicism and bravery, they instead chose to make it heart warming and subtle, something he shares with his co-worker.

My one gripe was the multitude of opportunities for the writers to reference the “Little Green Men” aka Aliens from the original Toy Story movies, and yet, they failed to make any appearance. I was hoping they’d at least make a minor appearance such as hanging from a rear-view mirror of a Jeep, but it was not to be. The little plot-holes aside that I had picked up on, this movie is emotive and nostalgic enough for you to thoroughly enjoy and marvel in the magnificent animation quality, and enjoying the subtle themes of friendship, love and hard work to make things right for all.

[theweeklychronicles]

There’s Something about Sarah’s Day

For someone not shy of a few controversies, Health and Fitness Vlogger and Influencer, Sarah’s Day, is continuously being pushed into the critical spotlight for one reason or another. Today, on the 15th September 2020, her fans have had enough. 

We have reached the tip of the iceberg, and fans and critics are sick of being silenced. Whenever Sarah’s Day, or Sarah Stevenson as she is formally known, has posted some sensitive or questionable content on her social media platforms, followers and supporters have kindly tried to educate or constructively critique her wrong-doings. Sarah has had success on these platforms for a few years now, seeing her go from living at her parent’s home to moving into two apartments, and now buying and renovating a million-dollar property, so it’s no secret she has gained success by building her brand over the past five years.

However, her propulsion into building an empire is not the problem. It is the continuous silencing of her critics, or quite honestly, anyone who dares to hold an opinion other than her own. Why is it that, should she offend POC and the wider community over her actions or statements that she goes to lengths such as deleting Instagram comments? Why does she post snarky remarks to constructive feedback or suggestions? Or perhaps, as more recently, a Blak Activist who tried to reach out to her and educate Sarah and Kurt on Indigenous inequalities in Australia, who got blocked just for sending an educative message?

On Twitter today, fans and former fans/critics have started to voice their opinions on the platform by which Sarah herself cannot censor. It has become widely known now that Sarah and Kurt active monitor their social feeds for any comments they feel the need to moderate, delete or block, with many former fans coming forward in their disgust at being blocked by them simply for asking questions about their behaviours. Searching hashtags on Twitter such as #SarahsDay or #MySarahsDayStory shows some short accounts of fans, former stans and critics who have tried to educate Sarah on any mishaps she may have had in the past and have themselves being silenced, blocked, offended or poorly treated.

For so long, Sarah has gotten away with her actions (or more-so how she deals with scandals - often it is not the action itself, but the way she handles these issues that causes controversy). There is a trend for Sarah and Kurt to often use Fox, their young son as a scapegoat via social content to distract viewers of any current scandals they see themselves in, whether it be oriented around POC and appropriation issues, Black Lives Matter, COVID and entitled behaviours, where they can “censor” critiques and paint a white wall over their “haters” and save their face for businesses purposes.

Via these hashtags, individuals are being encouraged to tweet their stories, opinions, issues or experiences they’ve had with Sarah’s Day, whereby their opinions or “Tweets” as Twitter calls them, will NOT be silenced. Will NOT be filtered, blocked, archived or removed by the platforms simply because she does not like them. Collectively, there will be a feed of these experiences surrounding Sarah Stevenson’s controversies and behaviours which both fans and non-fans alike can read without fear of retribution or content moderation. Now, let’s be clear, this is not to be taken as bullying, as these members have tried to stress; Sarah simply needs to be accountable for her actions and show she is susceptible to change, as there seems to be mounting evidence that points to her losing followers, support and sales due to her unethical business ventures, failure to disclose business partnerships, scapegoating of scandal to prevent profit damage and heavy moderation of any criticism on her personal platforms. Sarah has said multiple times she is open to feedback, however only seems to say these things to save face. 

Please consider using the hashtags mentioned above if you have any stories or opinions which you see relevant to share about Sarah’s Day should you see them relevant to post online. At the time of publishing, there have been 205 tweets using the hashtag #SarahsDay and 36 using #MySarahsDayStory in the past 24 hours. It is only through accountability, education and change that we can improve and develop as humans within our one race - the human race. Let’s all be better. There is something about Sarah’s Day, and we need to talk about it.

Image source: I am not the creator or owner of this image. This image is sourced from Google.

[theweeklychronicles]

Why Racists Don’t Deserve to Watch the Great Game of Rugby League

Firstly, hear me out. I know it sounds harsh, but there is a huge contradiction present in the Rugby League community where so-called fans still seem to have this racist mentality, yet follow our great game full of multiculturalism, talent and pride amongst its athletes. The NRL as an organisation does so much to promote an inclusive culture free of bullying, domestic violence, pride and cultural acceptance and representation within the sport, and I like to think they do a pretty good job. However, for some reason in 2020, where we have seen so much change in the world and sport alone when it comes to racism, it is still a problem.

Particularly in Australia, we have not been shy of controversy within sport, which we have a supposed “pride and nationalism” in. Take these examples:

1996. Hazem el-Masri makes his debut as Australia’s first Muslim Rugby League player. Throughout the 2000s, he was subject to a lot of racism through (unrelated, mind you) events such as the Bali Bombings, Salary Cap scandal, Cronulla Riots and yet he remained graceful and tact through these times where he was unfairly chastised in both the fandom of NRL as well as negative press by the media.

2010, the year which Timana Tahu withdrew from the State of Origin after reportedly hearing Andrew Johns call Greg Inglis a “Bl*** C***”. Not only had Tahu walked out in protest and spoke publicly of the issue, but Johns was also pressured to resign as the NSW coach.

2013, the year when Adam Goodes became more vocal in his addressing of issues of racism in Aussie sport and was met with the “Booing Saga” which followed him in the crowd at his subsequent AFL matches. The year a 13-year old yelled out an insult to him from the crowd and caused a media uproar. Who was forced to retire in 2015 due to having time away from the game to deal with these issues which unfairly pummelled him and overshadowed his career.

2019. Latrell Mitchell cops an on-slew of abuse on social media from trolls which almost pushes him out of the game. He bravely stands up and helps push the #RacismStopsWithMe movement after Mitchell became sick of the casual racism which fans continue to think is okay.

Now, these are only four examples in Australian sport of some of our greatest stars having to withstand the toxicity which remains in our crowds and sporting fans. But quite simply, if you’re going to be racist, you don’t deserve to watch Rugby League. You are not a fan.

- 12% of our NRL players in first grade are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Island background. 

- 24% of our Australian Kangaroos side have Indigenous backgrounds.

- Did you know, over 45% of the NRL is made up of players with Polynesian heritage? That’s almost 1 in 2 top graders. 

- 116 countries are the birthplaces of our first-grade athletes, whose parents come from 144 countries around the globe.

The NRL Indigenous Round is one way the NRL has dedicated space to recognise the contributions of our Indigenous brothers and sisters to our game, both on and off the field. It’s also a time the NRL can highlight some key social issues Indigenous people face and how we as a community can work to change them.

Recently with the Black Lives Matter movement reaching our shores from the USA, we have seen players such as Blake Ferguson, Adam Reynolds, Josh Mansour and Cody Walker take lead in bringing this passion to our football fields to recognise the role multiculturalism has in our great game. These players are just one example of individual-lead actions taken to create a more inclusive environment for all, and it wasn’t even some PR stunt organised by the NRL, but choices made by the players themselves to help stamp out hate in the community.

I am hoping that if you’re still reading this, you understand why I wanted you to hear me out on why I don’t think racists are entitled to watch the beautiful game of rugby league when their behaviour does not stand with the values and ethos set by the NRL and its players. It is hypocritical to be calling your idols racist remarks or casually slandering other players because of their difference to you.

This was not meant to individually target anyone, but I just hope that talking about racism and multiculturalism right now while we celebrate the Indigenous round can help highlight why this time is so special to recognise the achievements and contributions which our Indigenous brothers and sisters have made.

Let’s just celebrate the game for what it is, a melting pot of talent and culture that can keep us crowds and fans in awe of the abilities these athletes replicate week in and week out for their fans, and their fellow teammates. NRL players should be able to stand tall for their beliefs, cultures and values freely without any unwarranted abuse or attacks, and hopefully one day soon, we will get there!

Photo credit: NRL

Statistics: NRL

[theweeklychronicles]

5 ways that Animal Crossing has Positively Impacted my Life During “iso”

I don’t know about you, but the 300+ hours I have clocked on Animal Crossing during this time in isolation has felt like a HUUUGE waste of time. But every time I leave the house, I find little sprinklings of the game in society that excite me.

Now you might be thinking, “Huh? What? Boring.”

But I will walk past a pinecone, or a dragonfly and I would get excited, thinking, “Ooh, where’s my net? Gotta catch that bug”, or “Ooh a pinecone, so precious.”

In everyday life, you would probably walk past these said parts of nature and not even bat an eyelid.

Every night IRL, if there is a clear sky, I now stargaze and see if I can find local constellations above. And, you bet, I have downloaded a stargazing app called ‘Night Sky’, so I can keep tabs on the stars above, and know when there are meteor showers. Do you think I would be this invested in nature without Animal Crossing? Hell no.

When was the last time you were excited about a meteor shower? (And no, I am not talking about it raining stars at your friend’s AC island). I have genuinely become more caring and acknowledging the world around us. How beautiful and wholesome is that?

Whilst it is kinda corny, I think it is quite profound that a mere video game with kiddy characters can teach us, adults, a thing or two about our surroundings. Yeah, okay, we are innocently logging down trees for resources. We’re fishing until our flimsy rods fall apart, but there are so many subconscious lessons being learned, and I think that’s kinda cute! 

A video game, making a global and international, positive impact on so many lives, where you get excited about seeing 5 different species of crickets or catching something other than sea bass, that you proudly show off to your friends. That’s bloody wholesome stuff right there, and it is certainly not behaviour that would exist outside of Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ release.

Kudos to all the people behind this great game, full of intricate design, meaning, and impact on a world where most are bound by their home’s boundaries and stuck playing video games such as these. But hey, there could be worse ways to spend my time, like arranging coloured shapes to fall nicely in line, just to get a new high score, right?

I’ll see you around, I have some exciting new fish and insects to catch and hand into my museum to Blathers, simply for bragging rights to my friends.

Gone Fishin’,

Image Sources: Animal Crossing / Nintendo / Kotaku

I do not own these images.

[theweeklychronicles]

Cut Ali on The Bachelorette a break...

I can’t believe all the hate Ali is getting for choosing Taite as her man. Obviously she was going to make a choice, one way or the other... it was going to either be Taite or Todd.

They were both eligible bachelors, both flawed but also well suited to Ali, but obviously each guy had their flaw which affected Ali in some major way.

For Ali to have chosen Taite as her final man, she obviously had to consider how he felt, his honesty and openness to their future and she would not have made the decision lightly.

I actually think through this entire experience, even though Ali continuously harped on about timelines, marriage and babies, she actually was the won who learnt about compromise and reality through this show. All the men and suitors have taught her different things, and by her choosing Taite, she is actually valuing his honesty and realistic approach to being in a stable relationship and being about open with what they want.

She learnt that she can’t expect the PERFECT life that she just expected to fall in front of her, and by choosing Taite, it shows personal growth. Ali admitted she was taking a risk by choosing him, but it also showed us change in her perspective and not just choosing the one guy who told her everything she wanted to hear.

Here is hoping that they are happy and still a couple. Congrats to Taite and Ali!

[theweeklychronicles]

Thoughts on Charlie - The Bachelorette Contestant

I saw red flags from the get go. Charlie seemed like the perfect bachelor, ready to sweep the woman of his dreams of her feet.   How can someone go from one personality, where everyone is swooning at his feet? To being the most hated contestant ever?

I really hope all women can now spot the red flags and signs of a toxic male whom has sexist, posessive and emotionally manipulative nuances which could turn out to be much worse. These are the early signs of domestic violence offenders and I would be so worried to be in Ali’s position.

It was about time (*SPOILER*) that she sent him home tonight, because he got to stay WAAY too long, as it wasn’t 100% clear to Ali of his personal issues. This just goes to show how well a psychologically damaged male/female can hide traits and behavioural issues to their partner, to keep posession of them... often the partner is never suspecting of their behaviour, until others help unveil it.  Honestly, I am just glad she realised before it was too late. And in a way, that she went through this with him in front of the camera. I can imagine it would have ended a lot worse (For Ali, of course) if this relationship happened behind closed doors.

I hope Dascha understands what she has signed up for. I am just glad she is a PT and able to put up a fight with him, she’s gonna need it...

[theweeklychronicles]

When Orange got it’s groove Black

Finally. Orange is the New Black feels like home again. Season 6, you had me so satisfied.

After a sham of a season you could call season 5, where sh*t kept hitting the ceiling, but not in good viewing pleasure, I’m so glad the Kohan and co. were able to muster up a season that made for good entertainment. The issue I had with season 5 was how clunky it was, and jumpy, that you didn’t even want to finish the episodes.

Piper: Much praise should be given to Taylor Schilling for holding the character of Piper so well through all these seasons. I can say there have been many actresses who have bothered me these last few as they fall out of character, or show weak versions of them. (Yael Stone, I’m looking at you). Kudos to Schilling for playing such a likeable, relatable, annoying AF character who is able to blend so many versions of individual groups into one personality. 

Red: My dear Red, you’re storylines have been so dismal these past few years. You were originally the character we loved to hate, and yet, Kate Mulgrew, the actress who plays her is LEGIT so talented, I have never felt more sadistic liking a sicko character. The writers did so well to make Red into a likeable personality, who, when you peel her back, has raw emotion, love, humanity. And yet, in all the moments you think these will break free, something sad comes along to ruin the joy. (Like never meeting her grandchildren, moments before greeting them!) I wish I had a cafeteria lady like Red.

Daya: Oh Daya. What happened? You used to be my favourite character in the series. You were strong, innocent, loveable, friendly, and were in love with a prison guard (what’s not to like?) But now that she has become a druggo, creepy gay gangwoman I question her integrity as a human. Dascha Palanco does brilliantly to bring this character of Daya to life, you feel as though she’s real and alive in front of you. Very authentic in her acting.

Gloria: Gloria, one of my late bloomers in terms of favourites. The fierceness she holds is admirable, always striving to do best by her family (without being shady and tacky like Aleida). I was cheering for ya with Luschek, the couple we didn’t know we needed to ship. Gloria is such a loveable person, and the wit she has just makes so snicker through the episodes.

Luschek. You Jerk! I feel like the character of Luschek is a rollercoaster. Really loved how kind he was to Nicky back in the days of shop, and now that he shows sides of consideration and care, you always root for him. And the sexual chemistry between him and Gloria - Dayum! Give us more! If that wasn’t hooking, what is! We need to see more development with that in the plot. Seems like a great avenue for storyline and such a geniune connection between the two.

Kaputo: Kaputo has his moments of redemption, those redeeming qualities he dangles in front of the viewer. Only to be a slob and disappointment again. You can see how sweet he is, and loyal, willing to do what’s best for Tastee. And I LOVE to watch him try so hard to woo Fig, what an endless battle. The character of Kaputo is so well depicted, however, and is a great character to watch.

Fig: Natalie Figeroa, one of my favourite characters in this series. Tacky, Bitchy, Selfish, Entertaining, what’s not to like? I LOVE how Kaputo is able to crack her tough exterior shell, and show you a glimmer of the remains of a kind soul within. You kind of chuckle at yourself when you see her smile from Kaputo’s efforts and remarks. I think Fig doesn’t understand what she deserves; and that being a good person manifests good things into the world. From such an evil beginning, Fig has had great character development.

Sorry to nitpick a few characters, but had to choose my favourites, of course. And react to the various plot lines that have scrambled throughout season 6. The sisters, Carol and Barbara lifted sh*t to the next level, and cannot believe the strength and volatileness of them. Some crazy good acting, if you ask me, particularly Henny Russell, who is so authentically evil in her portrayal of Carol Denning, you think you recognise her. There is that familiarity with her, and that’s when you know that an actor has done a phenomenal job. 

Overall, I’d say the acting has been so incredible and consistent over the seasons of OITNB, and with amazing writers and people like Jenji Kohan (Mastermind behind epic Dark show Weeds), you know a show can live on for many more years. With such dark, relatable, yet farfetched shenanigans, on a show like Orange is the New Black, there is such a feeling of refreshment with familiarity with each season, and I can only hope that they can squeeze a few more seasons out for years to come.

(Gee, imagine the future stories of freedom that could be told beyond the barbed wire!?) Haha get it? Barb-ed wire?

Okay, I’ll sit down now.

[theweeklychronicles]

Cannot wait to post more!

For those who follow! (Or are just lurking)

I have promised myself that I will continue to write reviews!

At first it was just movies and TV shows, but as I am trying to stave off my social media addiction, I want to read more books, which is a favourite past time. Which means, yes! I will review books I read too. So excited!

[theweeklychronicles]

I swear guys only message you when it’s too late

Ugh. Why do women have to have such deep, intense crushes?

I swear you fall head over heels for a guy, cannot stop thinking about them but they never get the hint about you liking them. And then, when you do everything in your power to get over them, THEY TRY WORM THEIR WAY BACK INTO YOUR LIFE.

Now, I’m not even referring to the whole ‘it’s all about the chase’ scenario. Moreso, when they kinda leave your life, or you cut them out, and they come crawling back. 

It takes me SO LONG to get over a guy. Literally every single damn time it takes MONTHS. Actually more like a proper year (but then lbh, the feels are just smaller, swimming deep down). 

And like currently, I have this massive f**cking crush that I have wormholed into and cannot get out, and then this OTHER guy tries to slide back in the DMs. MATE NO. BYE.

MY emotions are literally in overdrive all the time, and then someone from your past tries to get back in. WHYYYYYY

Oh my god.

It is such a punch in the feels. Like you’re well and truly good again and everything comes crashing back. Oh, did I mention he has a girlfriend now?

So like, why are you messaging me and acting all flirty, when you had your chance YEARS ago. UGHHH. Why are there so many players out there smh.

Literally, my life is this: Pine over a guy that doesn’t want me. Yet, I get people attracted to me that I would never be interested in. 

I hate feeling like I am fussy but that is literally my luck. Guy doesn’t get the hint I LIKE HIM AND THEN I GET PLEBS TRYING TO GET MY ATTENTION AT THE SAME TIME FML.

LOL. And people wonder why I am single. 

I have massive trust issues as a result of guys playing games, leading me on and breaking my heart, and the last thing I want is someone I have had to cut out, to crawl back to me and send me over the railings. 

WAHHH just when I thought I had enough ME time.

How does one find a parallel universe where men don’t exist?

LEL call me.

[theweeklychronicles]

Thoughts I had during the Pretty Little Liars finale

America watched the finale about 6hrs before me and I was mad AF, here are my thoughts as I scoured the internet for a link so I could be let down by the PLL writers one last time.... (LOL)

TIME JUMP WHY

MOVIE LOT MAKE OUT WITH ARIA AND EZRA, WHY? Significance of this location?

OF COURSE ALI HAD TWINS WITH EMILY

IS ALY WEARING A WIG? WHY, HER HAIR IS TERRIBLE

MELISSA IS BACK. YASS

SHES STILL SUSS THO (Like, where has she even been?)

LOL ENTER TOBY: CAN I HELP YOU? Err, Welcome back Toby? From wherever it is you disappeared to?

THIS IS THE LAST TIME IM WATCHING PLL OMG

HOW DID YOU EVEN  KNOW SPENCE WOULD BE AT THE STABLE Toby??

DAMN book series ending reference LOL

YESSS JENNA, SLAY

HI MONAAA! <3

LOL OFC MELISSA IS STILL A BLACK HOODIE

EMILY ACTING LIKE SHE KNOWS THINGS ABOUT HAVING KIDS LOL

SMH OFC SPENCE AND TOBY GO BACK TOGETHER

OMG THAT WASNT MELISSA WTF MONA AND THAT MASK

HMM I AM OK WITH MONA

THATS NOT SPENCER LOL!!!

POOR ARIA, I FEEL FOR YOU GIRL

ARIAS DAD IS BACKK LOL (Secretly wanted him as A.D Come on!)

AW THATS CUTE EZRA GOT THE BLESSING From Arias Dad!

I LOVE U ELLA

WINE MOMS

HAHAHA SOMETIMES I WISH WE WERE STILL IN THE BASEMENT IM DYING

AT LEAST TOBY GOT RID OF THAT STUPID BEARD HE HARBOURED

DRUNK WINE MOMS EVEN BETTER HAHAH

I'm so scared about this episode

This whole emison relationship is so overplayed and ridiculous.. proposal lol?

Why doesn't Hanna and calebs lounge face the tv lol

As if Toby wouldn't look through the peep hole first before answering the door in a towel lol

That was a shocker lol (Oh It’s you, Spencer?)

WTF mona ?!?

Yeah that's not spencer lol

Yeah, that's also not spencer 

Omg Mary escaped. How !!

Shits about Get messed up!

Wtf is that accent lol

What the fuck

Wtf Alex what type of name is that

Why does Alex care about Charlotte ??

WTF ALEX YOU PSYCHO. WREN POOR WREN

This show is messed up. When did Alex even get caught up on the CeCe dramas

OF COURSE WREN WAS THE BABY DADDY LOL

“I thought we could have lunch together”   Lol Mary THROUGH A CELL

I liked the idea of Bethany better??

This is messed up.  Oh spencer poor thing

OMG Ezra’s trapped too wtf??

Even the horse can tell it’s not Spence hahahaha

Omg yes Jenna figuring shit out. She isn’t as evil as we thought!

Lolllll they just figured it out

MONA what game u playing

Omg Alex punching Mary scared the shit outta me

MONA playing her own game yaaaas

Hahaha what a Truman show moment with the fake sky and all

How does Alex know her way around this maze so easily?

EZRA PLEASE BE OKAY

If it was that easy to Track Alex down in a day, why did it take us seven seasons to find A?

If that wasn’t a Parent trap moment, I don’t know what is! #WhichTwinIsWhich

Haha an ‘A’ text message joke at the wedding

Did they never think to change their ringtones after all these seasons? ha ha

Final ‘A’ farewell lol ?

Who is Mona’s mystery man?

I'm confused

Lol WHAT

Is that dollhouse??

Ooh mirror homage to the pilot episode

BUT LIKE YOU END THE SHOW THERE AS IF IT ALL HAPPENS AGAIN

BUT I WANNA KNOW HOW MARY ESCAPED AND HOW THE FUCK DID ALEX END UP OUTTA JAIL AND IN MONAS CONTROL?

THANK U FOR KINDLY EXPLAINING WHY MELISSA WAS STILL A BLACK HOODIE? IM STILL SHOOK. BYE

Photos are not my own

[theweeklychronicles]

Pretty Little instincts

We all want to know who A.D is for once and for all, so in anticipation of this, I decided to watch 1x1 yet again, to try rule everyone out. First up, all five girls are in this episode, and we know that true A was SOMEHOW in the first episode

Ali, Spencer, Aria, Hanna, Emily, Ezra, Maya

Byron, Ella and Mike, Pam,

Why I dont think they’re A:

Spencer: Way too politically motivated and self-focused to be kept busy doing A things.

Aria: Doesn’t have a hidden agenda for finding Cece’s killer or avenging her death

Hanna: Being A would have no benefit for her, especially for her career goals

Emily: Unless Emily had some secret crush on Cece I don’t see what Emily could get out of being A

Ella Montgomery: Been so irrelevant lately, no connection to Cece

Who I am not ruling out:

Alison, Mona, Caleb, Toby, Paige, Sydney, Jenna, Emily?

[theweeklychronicles]

The 2017 version of Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus fans surely have to be the most patient fans that could exist. So many new artists have been dropping new songs or albums left right and centre, or had a personal image revamp to keep fans at their feet. (Er, yes Katy Perry). And Smilers, as they like to be known, have been silent bystanders just waitin’, while Selena fans get their doses, and Lovatics, Swifties and the like all bathe in the music that they praise. And now, just now, are Cyrus’ fans sitting on the edge of their chairs.

I just read the Billboard article on Miley and it truly excited me at the mere thought of a new Miley single dropping on May 12. For years, her fans have begged her to touch base with her country roots, her southern upbringing. And now, since Cyrus has reached a new level of maturity, (Yes, even for Cyrus), she seems to be propelling this forward as she uses her country influences in her upcoming album.

She has explicitly said she isn’t doing it for the sales, and she also doesn’t want her new music to become trash, but her pop-country and ballad styles will hopefully light up this upcoming album, as the singer songwriter has new muses that have led her through the development of this soon to be shared work.

That article has made me sigh with relief that Cyrus has left her nipple pasties and twerking long behind her, and not only this, she has admitted that it was a phase, and her new self is more demure and laid-back. *le sighs*

This new reincarnation of Cyrus is blooming like a slow, blossoming flower, and although it won’t be a tulip, expect an unruly rose (with it’s thorn) HA.HA.

I’ll be waiting, Miley.

[theweeklychronicles]

Why you should give “13 Reasons Why” on Netflix a chance

Not everyone likes 50 minute episodes, or flimsy teenage TV shows, but think again if you think this is some wishy-washy trash.

This show will punch you in the face. It’s definitely not your typical teenage drama. In fact, it’s quite the opposite, as it’s a depressing, tear jerking show that makes you feel sick for wanting to binge watch it. In fact, I couldn’t sit through more than a couple of episodes at a time due to its intensity.

And before you cringe and refuse to watch it because Selena Gomez lent a small hand in executive producing, overlook that small detail, get over it, and see the violent art form that is this entire season.

For a show that centralises around a teenage girl’s suicide, it is important to note that this show is like no other, as it gives you the ending at the beginning episode, and develops overtime as you draw the line between the start and end. Every episode literally jumps back and forth as you live out each tape’s recording that Hannah left behind for the viewer to piece together and experience.

Whilst some viewers object to the inclusion of teenage suicide as the main concept, the producers have done a brilliant job in bringing youth suicide and depression to the forefront of mainstream society. Think about all the young people who will watch this show thinking it is the new Gossip Girl/Pretty Little Liars/ Riverwood. Because it is. But in a different way.

Never have I watched and experienced a show like this, that is so confronting, so uncomfortable, so executed, that is targeted for a young audience, with gripping and mature content that is made to shake you up and feel emotions you didn’t think you, or the featured characters had. Each character has so much depth, and you sympathise with their weaknesses as each tape recording reveals new secrets and personal lows for each character.

Yes, there are sexual assault, violent and suicidal themes. Yeah, sure they make you uncomfortable or could even be a trigger to sensitive individuals. And yeah, of course you might be mad, or society is angered by the content that this show contains, but that is utterly the point. You are meant to FEEL things, accept that you can hurt, you feel love, and hatred, and pain, that sometimes just can’t be fixed. But it also aims to allow viewers to understand their STRENGTH. 

The takeout from this stunning series, that contains many young, experienced, unknown actors; is that it shines. Shines in ways you didn’t think possible. The actors do a great job, and amazingly considering the extreme themes within the series. But alas, for the show to tap into the viewers’ own strength, there is a moral message of understanding. You learn to realise the importance of life, love and friendship. Communication is fundamental to ensure that happiness lives on, and that lives are never disregarded, because, 13 Reasons Why explores the ensemble cast and the way their behaviours contributed to Hannah’s death. Each of these characters all regret choices they made, and most of all, feel guilt for not being able to realise the signs of her demise.

Accept that suicide is real. Help and resources are available. Accept your emotions and reach out for assistance where required, because if we have learnt anything, it is that every action has a consequence, and we should be responsible for our own actions, not the actions of others.

Clay, Justin, Tony and co all wish they could have impacted on Hannah’s life in a better way, but you can’t bring back anyone from the dead once they’ve made the decision to end their life. You can only try to repiece the puzzle back together, offer support to those who need it, and give 13 Reasons Why a go; because it is a show that is compelling, confronting and bloody emotional.

[theweeklychronicles]

I finally met their mother!

So, I have been watching How I Met Your Mother for years, and I mean, since 2011. It was a show I completely despised when it first appeared on our screens on the old school TV (remember those?) I thought it was just a stupid premise, until I matured a bit and gave it another shot at age 17.

Starting at 1x1, I loved it.. More so the relationship and plot lines between Robin and Ted, I completely shipped them (as 16 year old me would say).

Have you ever been so engrossed in a television series that you get frustrated when you don’t get your way with the plot line? Well I suffer immensely with this issue, and I completely threw HIMYM in the bin, I was done. As soon as I saw Barney and Robin were a couple I was so mad, and I couldn’t care for the rest of the series.. I HATED BARNEY. Anyone, but Barney. 

One of my best friends kept telling me not to lose hope and to keep watching, but I really couldn’t. I had bought series 1-6 on DVD from Blockbuster (remember that?), and I refused to waste any more money on it.

Remember when Netflix didn’t exist? HAHA

Fast forward to the release of Netflix in Australia, which also coincided with the time I stopped pirating content.. hmm what a coincidence (kidding), but alas, I gave HIMYM another shot. Still talking to my friend, she was adamant I should keep watching, without telling me any spoilers. Trust me, she was dying to.

So I was watching season 7, and towards the end of that season I freaked out thinking it was the last one, and how there wasn’t enough time to wrap the series. To my luck, there was a season 8. Was still watching it!! Towards the end of this season I was having a heart attack as there weren’t enough episodes left to wrap up the series, let alone me see Robin and Ted be endgame 5evs. To my surprise, I messaged another friend and he told me there was a season 9. LOL. So earlier this week, I started watching the actual last season, bittersweetly as I knew the end was nigh.

Every episode further I got, I got more angry at my best friend, thinking, how dare you trick me into finishing this series by telling me Robin and Barney break up. I just watched them get married and yet she keeps telling me they don’t last! I almost hurled so much abuse at her, with me heartbroken just as much as Ted LMAO.

And so came the last episode. This show was written so well, so perfectly and without losing any quality over the years. It was so cleverly written that I didn’t even mind how Ted’s wife’s character was interwoven so late in the series, it was done so flawlessly and she was an authentic addition to the squad! The ending I had predicted, but being me, had lost hope of it coming to fruition.

AND THEN CAME THE FINAL SCENES. IT WAS ALL FALLING INTO PLACE.

It was too good to be true! Ted’s kids were onto him! But maybe they were tricking the audience. Nup. Nup. Ted’s kids are telling him to call Robin. SHE’S STILL WAITING FOR HIM. I loved the realisation she had when she divorced Barney, about realising she should have married Ted all along. And the final scene where she looks out her window with her dogs, was such a nice reference back to season one. Ahhh such a perfect ending. Ted and Robin FINALLY get together, and the premise of the entire series wasn’t lost. Well played, Carter Bays and Craig Thomas. You guys are, wait for it... Legen-DARY

xoxo

[theweeklychronicles]

She twiddled her thumbs. Catriona had no idea what she had done wrong to be let down like this. She slowly rose from her leather couch she had sunken into, and stumbled to her bedroom. The room was airy and bright, completely opposite to her current mood. As she face planted into her bed, heavy tears dwindled down her face and into her plush pillow.

Catriona knew the tears weren’t to halt any time soon, however she knew that the next few weeks coming were to be difficult and dark, for the pain she was going through from the love of her life; was deteriorating her soul by the hour. Her bleak future saw no light in the distance, and that is when Catriona realised her sad heart would not repair itself for quite some time.

[theweeklychronicles]

Soo... Gilmore Girls

I don’t even know where to start. I just finished watching the Revival episodes last night, the four 90minute long episodes that show us roughly ten years later the lives of our favourite (or not) Star’s Hollow characters. I’ve heard so many mixed reviews and commentary, and now that I’ve finally finished, I can join the conversation.

I feel like I need to just comment by topic/headline, because I have so many thoughts...and questions (ugh!) so here goes....

Also, can I just say, even though it’s painstakingly obvs

SPOILER ALERT.

First up:

General freakout at the ending: UMM WTF Why would Rory drop a bomb like that, when Lorelai’s about to get married? Yeah, she always makes everything about her, the little whiney bitch. But SRSLY OMG RORY PREGNANT. WHO’S YO DADDY. After scouring Reddit I see that everyone says it’s Logan’s, but come on, let’s be real and say it is possible that Rory had a secret hookup with Jess (who’s gotten even hotter), that we just didn’t see on screen. We all know he’s still pining for her!!!

Gilmore Girls book : So I LOVED this premise and thought it tied the entire series together nicely, and gives something for Rory to finally be succesfull for in her career journey, but REALLY? END THE SHOW WITHOUT US SEEING THE SUCCESS UPON PUBLISHING? YEAH, this is why I am hoping there are future episodes. I mean I loved everything coming together full circle in the entire series, but come on, if you leave this up in the air, fans are obviously begging for more ‘Where are they now?” crap....

Rory: Ummm so I know everyone hates her in the sense of being whiney and annoying and for making stupid decisions, but I actually LIKE how someone that was portrayed as perfect, intellectual and goal driven in the series, winded up home without a job, a house, or a boyfriend. I was really happy that she never got a perfect ending, just because she had a great upbringing, education and her aspirations being so strong. It made me feel a bit better about life? LOL

I guess what I mean is, she’s the main character and always had good things ahead of her, but the fact she ends up back on her mum’s doorstep without achieving all the success we thought she would achieve, makes her more likeable, realistic, and show that it’s okay to have dreams and not reach them!

Lorelai: I must say, out of all the characters, Lorelai was one of the only ones who didn't change.. which is probably more credit to Lauren Graham for being able to step back into character so well. After a massive time jump, both in and out of the series, it was amazing that Lauren was able to play Lorelai so authentically and consistent after all this time.. can’t say the same for all the actors so I’m soo happy she played Lorelai flawlessly.

Logan: Can’t say I was ever a fan of Logan, as I’m a Jess girl myself (I think that was obvious), but he hasn’t aged a day! I think Matt Czuchry did an amazing job stepping back into Logan’s sleazy shoes, and did the character justice, even if I didn’t like his contribution to the storyline.. he makes Rory such a terrible person and character.. smh

Jess: WHAT A SWEETY. How great is he looking by the way? Wow. And he came back to see his family in Star’s Hollow, but let’s be honest, he still has feelings for Rory, and I’m secretly hoping that they hooked up and that is who will father Rory’s baby.. Because I sure think he would contribute to the storyline more than ASP (The creator) has led on. 

Emily: Ahh, Emily. One of my favourite characters, probably everyone’s favourite. Although she seemed a lot different at the start, I realised that she was still the same Emily we know and love, just more gutsy and brash than ever. I think her losing it totally won everyone over and allowed everyone to see the ‘real’ side to her, and not the fake proper facade she always puts on. Witty and comical as ever, it was great to see her doing rather well since Richard’s passing. RIP. Glad to see her move out of the mansion, too! AND THE FACT SHE KEPT BERTA AS THE MAID LONGER THAN A WEEK. Like, we can remember one of her maid’s names, that’s amazing!!

I just feel like there was a whole lot of moments where I thought, “Ooh, this part is great!”, and then the rest of the episode was fluff... Or that there was a lot of filler stuff happening that took up too much valuable time, for example that Star’s Hollow play, it was just a TAD too long. Small shoutout to Christopher for still looking mighty fine. Also thank f*ck for staying out of Lorelai and Luke’s relationship after all these years LOL.

OH I DIDN’T EVEN MENTION KIRK. Kirk is the exact same as ever, and I love how amazingly talented Sean Gunn is for making the character so ridiculous, yet likeable! At the end of the day, you’re like, I actually LOVE Kirk!! 

Taylor is still cool and grumpy and all, he wasn’t played AS well as in the previous seasons, but still did a great job being the town mayor (or whatever he calls himself)

TBH I’ll probably add more to this later, because I have way more questions than I did after the Series finale! Is Jess Rory’s Luke? How does Rory’s book go? Do Lorelai and Luke have kids? Blah blah blah... until then....

[iglovequotes]

http://iglovequotes.net/

[theweeklychronicles]

oh shit this is deep. Hit me in the gut, but too scared to do so. eeeeep