Ah, another movie review.
The Girl Next Door is based on a fictional book by Jack Ketchum that is based on the real life crime of Sylvia Likens. Sylvia was a young sixteen year old girl left in the care of Gertrude Baniszewski who ended up torturing the girl leading to her death. This was a huge crime in Indianapolis, so it's a close story to me. I even read the true crime book on this for a school project. I haven't read Ketchum's book, but after getting a Netflix account, I just had to watch this film.
I'm not going to go into too much depth on the movie. If you're familiar with Sylvia's torture than this film plays out a bit of the same. However, they altered the events heavily in order to make it more "shocking". It wasn't really necessary as what Sylvia went through was already horrible. In fact, the movie makes the whole thing worse that I was offended by it.
One of the changes is that they made the girls based off of Sylvia and Jenny, her sister who had polio, orphans. In real life, their parents were carnies who left them in Gertrude's care. The film also makes the children who Gertrude convinced to abuse Sylvia mostly male. Paula, Gertrude's oldest daughter, was one of the biggest aggressors in the case along with other females. They also sexualized the torture way more than what actually happened. The worse thing that happened to Sylvia was Gertrude forced her to strip in front of the kids and shove a Pepsi bottle in her vagina. Twice. And yet this film actually shows the boys raping the girl which never did happen in real life. I found going to this extreme too much. Sylvia faced true suffering and I wish if they were going to retell the story, they wouldn't sensationalize it even more than it has been.
The acting is rather subpar as well. The girl playing Susan, Jenny's fictional counterpart, has literally no expression and emotion. She is just there. Also, the mother I found her sadism a bit too forced. Even though Gertrude was just as mental, Gertrude made way more sense in her ability to convince the kids to abuse Sylvia.
As I had a personal investment in the real crime of Sylvia Likens, this movie offended me on how they had to "spice" it up. I get it's a fictional story based on real events, but it's too exploitative in my opinion. For a much more accurate movie I recommend An American Crime starring Ellen Page. This was closer to the actual events, but I hated how they made Gertrude a sympathetic character.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Monday, April 25, 2011
Small Update
When your mom gets a Facebook account, it's expected. You know eventually your out of date parents will try what all the kids are doing. But when you're grandparents get one, then Facebook's days are numbered.
Finals are happening next week and that means mostly nothing. Mostly since I haven't updated my Youtube in weeks. The last update was about my new cat and I really need to get back with Amnesia. Yet, I hate recording it with Quicktime as the top and right hand side just come out wrong. Recently something dawned on me. I could record my computer gameplay via a TV!! I remembered one of my old friends connected his Mac to his TV to make movies easier to watch. Tons of people do that and I figured, "Why not do the same with a game?" Unfortunately, I don't have the item that will require me to do that. Good news, I get paid at the end of this week and as long as new Monster High dolls don't come out, I could get it!! Then there is actually recording it. The last time I used Pinnacle it refused to allow me to save my video, so I don't really have a way at this point in time to record.
I was going to see if I could get a Dazzle and then hi-jack my sister's Mac, but she's moving to a different part of the state, so that's out. My Windows laptop is utter crap as well and I'm not going to use it. So....nothing. It's disappointing, agreed. I'd really would like to finish Amnesia and just do other walkthroughs, but I really just can't afford it and don't have the time. These are put off indefinitely at the time. I'm not saying I'm done or going to stop, just that I cannot at all do it.
Finals are happening next week and that means mostly nothing. Mostly since I haven't updated my Youtube in weeks. The last update was about my new cat and I really need to get back with Amnesia. Yet, I hate recording it with Quicktime as the top and right hand side just come out wrong. Recently something dawned on me. I could record my computer gameplay via a TV!! I remembered one of my old friends connected his Mac to his TV to make movies easier to watch. Tons of people do that and I figured, "Why not do the same with a game?" Unfortunately, I don't have the item that will require me to do that. Good news, I get paid at the end of this week and as long as new Monster High dolls don't come out, I could get it!! Then there is actually recording it. The last time I used Pinnacle it refused to allow me to save my video, so I don't really have a way at this point in time to record.
I was going to see if I could get a Dazzle and then hi-jack my sister's Mac, but she's moving to a different part of the state, so that's out. My Windows laptop is utter crap as well and I'm not going to use it. So....nothing. It's disappointing, agreed. I'd really would like to finish Amnesia and just do other walkthroughs, but I really just can't afford it and don't have the time. These are put off indefinitely at the time. I'm not saying I'm done or going to stop, just that I cannot at all do it.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Insidious Review
Every time a horror film comes out, I feel the need to go and see it. I hadn't heard anything about this movie, but decided to spend the money on it. Was it worth it? Hmm, maybe not what I paid, but it's still worth going to see.
A couple moves into an old house with their two sons and baby daughter. The wife is stressed that her husband has to stay late at work, trying to write new songs, and left to handle her kids. It doesn't help that her daughter is constantly crying. When their oldest son, Dalton, falls off a ladder and ends up in a coma. The doctors can find no real medical reason why Dalton is in a coma and so he stays for three months. The wife begins to see a man in the house and something keeps opening the front door, triggering the alarm. Tired of all this, they move to a different house, but this solves nothing. It turns out that the hauntings are following them because their son has astral projected himself into The Further and they must bring his spirit back before his spirit fades away.
The movie is better than I was expecting from James Wan. Everyone will recognize him as being the director behind the first Saw movie. He also directed Deadly Silence which I found to be rather boring and tripe. When you see the title for Insidious, it looks like one of those old '60-'70 films, so I started thinking I was going to see something rather campy like those films. The movie isn't like that at all. And it isn't really another possession story as well, unlike the movie poster and trailers have implied.
Some of the spirits are genuinely terrifying, for awhile. The first one we are introduced to, this man in an overcoat, was at first quite disturbing. I jumped big time when we first see him. There is even this entity that was at first reminiscent of spirits you see given form in African and Native American paintings. A very primal fear of the otherworld. When we first see him, I didn't see it coming and it scared me. I was seriously hoping they wouldn't show him again, but when they do, it's in a jokey manner.
The movie takes on a humorous manner when we are introduced to these ghost hunters. Both of them are trying to compete with each other in their own fields, one is the engineer the other is the sketch artist, it's funny. But the rest of the film suffers after this and it stops being scary.
Overall, I have mixed feelings. The first half of the movie is truly a good way to start off a horror film, so it's sad to see it fall apart somewhat in the end. My recommendation is that if you do plan on seeing this, a rental or just waiting until it's a $5 movie or it's at the cheap theater. It's not bad, but the second half doesn't justify the price of a full price ticket.
A couple moves into an old house with their two sons and baby daughter. The wife is stressed that her husband has to stay late at work, trying to write new songs, and left to handle her kids. It doesn't help that her daughter is constantly crying. When their oldest son, Dalton, falls off a ladder and ends up in a coma. The doctors can find no real medical reason why Dalton is in a coma and so he stays for three months. The wife begins to see a man in the house and something keeps opening the front door, triggering the alarm. Tired of all this, they move to a different house, but this solves nothing. It turns out that the hauntings are following them because their son has astral projected himself into The Further and they must bring his spirit back before his spirit fades away.
The movie is better than I was expecting from James Wan. Everyone will recognize him as being the director behind the first Saw movie. He also directed Deadly Silence which I found to be rather boring and tripe. When you see the title for Insidious, it looks like one of those old '60-'70 films, so I started thinking I was going to see something rather campy like those films. The movie isn't like that at all. And it isn't really another possession story as well, unlike the movie poster and trailers have implied.
Some of the spirits are genuinely terrifying, for awhile. The first one we are introduced to, this man in an overcoat, was at first quite disturbing. I jumped big time when we first see him. There is even this entity that was at first reminiscent of spirits you see given form in African and Native American paintings. A very primal fear of the otherworld. When we first see him, I didn't see it coming and it scared me. I was seriously hoping they wouldn't show him again, but when they do, it's in a jokey manner.
The movie takes on a humorous manner when we are introduced to these ghost hunters. Both of them are trying to compete with each other in their own fields, one is the engineer the other is the sketch artist, it's funny. But the rest of the film suffers after this and it stops being scary.
Overall, I have mixed feelings. The first half of the movie is truly a good way to start off a horror film, so it's sad to see it fall apart somewhat in the end. My recommendation is that if you do plan on seeing this, a rental or just waiting until it's a $5 movie or it's at the cheap theater. It's not bad, but the second half doesn't justify the price of a full price ticket.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Spring Break and Tsunamis
Despite it is officially Spring Break, I'm still busy. Due to the rush of midterms, I still have to do a speech for Speech Class since I took the option to do it after Spring Break and have to finish reading soon so I can get started on a paper. I have more time to play video games, but primarily focusing on P3P. I do plan on playing a small amount of Amnesia, which I still have not finished!!! I just haven't had time to play any games. I was surprised to find out the last time I played P3P was in December! So part of why I haven't done Amnesia at all is because it's not one of my priorities. Also, it does indeed scare me.
As I'm sure you all know, a devastating earthquake hit Japan last week. This caused destructive tsunamis, power outages, and problems with nuclear plants. I believe most of them instantly shutdown, but Fukushima IV exploded recently. I hope in regards to radiation and meltdowns Japan will be okay. They say to stay indoors and try to prevent air from coming in. While that sounds like waiting for death, if you were to go outside to run, you're exposing yourself even more to radiation. Many other horrible things are happening all over Japan. Fortunately, it appears my Japanese hometown, Oyama, Tochigi, seems to be alright. One of the staff at Hakuoh uploaded a picture of the library after the earthquake and books were all over the floor! He also uploaded pictures from his grocery store. The shelves have barely any food left and the lines are extremely long. It's nice to hear that people in Japan are acting much more civilized than we would in America in such an incident. We would have started looting and rioting, but everyone in Japan has been acting civilly. I don't expect this to last much longer. People will grow restless in the more damaged areas.
Most of the other students from the same program have returned about a week before the quake. One of my friends is still living in Japan, but he seems to be okay. Most of the people I met and got to know are alright. One of them is planning on volunteering to help out with the crisis. I plan on donating some items since I don't have money to give. I'm sure some old clothing and blankets would be much appreciated.
As I'm sure you all know, a devastating earthquake hit Japan last week. This caused destructive tsunamis, power outages, and problems with nuclear plants. I believe most of them instantly shutdown, but Fukushima IV exploded recently. I hope in regards to radiation and meltdowns Japan will be okay. They say to stay indoors and try to prevent air from coming in. While that sounds like waiting for death, if you were to go outside to run, you're exposing yourself even more to radiation. Many other horrible things are happening all over Japan. Fortunately, it appears my Japanese hometown, Oyama, Tochigi, seems to be alright. One of the staff at Hakuoh uploaded a picture of the library after the earthquake and books were all over the floor! He also uploaded pictures from his grocery store. The shelves have barely any food left and the lines are extremely long. It's nice to hear that people in Japan are acting much more civilized than we would in America in such an incident. We would have started looting and rioting, but everyone in Japan has been acting civilly. I don't expect this to last much longer. People will grow restless in the more damaged areas.
Most of the other students from the same program have returned about a week before the quake. One of my friends is still living in Japan, but he seems to be okay. Most of the people I met and got to know are alright. One of them is planning on volunteering to help out with the crisis. I plan on donating some items since I don't have money to give. I'm sure some old clothing and blankets would be much appreciated.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Top Couples in VideoGames
I learned today that Mirror's Edge 2 was cancelled. I honestly loved the first game and I was hoping for the sequel. Now I'll never know if the story could ever clean itself up.
As it is Valentine's Day I would like to list some of my favorite video game couples. These are entirely of my opinion and you are welcome to disagree. Also, these are in no particular order, I'm just typing them down as I recall them.
1. Tidus and Yuna - Final Fantasy X: One of the best romances in Final Fantasy imo. I happen to be a total sucker for those romances that just cannot be. Why can't they be together? They love each other!! This is one of those couples to me. Want to know how much of a nerd I am, my friend finished this game and played the ending to me over the phone. I was bawling like a baby despite I didn't watch it!! True story. Luckily, Final Fantasy X-2 allows you to choose to reunite with Tidus. Awww... Yes I did tear up many times throughout the game.
2. Nathan and Elena - Uncharted: These two are just so cute together. Nathan is a lovable rogue. Elena is a sweet, no-nonsense girl. I loved the ending of these two together at the end of Uncharted 2. I haven't followed up much on Uncharted 3 on purpose, but I hope that this romance will live on there.
3. Hiro and Lucia - Lunar 2: Eternal Blue: This is one of the early couples for me. I played the Complete version on the PS1 before I played Silver. It's kind of a cheesy, animu couple that largely relies on nostalgia, but I still love it.
4. The Wanderer and Mono - Shadows of the Colossus: Much like #1, this is a total unrequited romance. More so than the earlier choices as we don't really know much about the relationship. Mono could possibly not know The Wanderer, he could be some weird stalker for all we know! I don't think that. His damned quest to retrieve her soul is a truly powerful tale. The ending makes me cry as well. The Wanderer being attacked by the clergy (?) yet still focused on Mono waking up makes me tear up.
5. Kayako and YOU - Ju-On - She just won't leave me alone.
6. U-1 and Kirah - Gitaroo Man - The ultimate love song!
7. Eileen Galvin and Walter Sulivan - This is more of a fan thing. D-don't ask too much about it.
8. Vyse and Aika and Fina - Skies of Arcadia - This is my favorite game of all time. Unlike your FFVII, this game completely avoids the love triangle. The game neither supports or rejects Vyse ending up with either girl. While I am more partial to Fina, I do believe a Sister Wives relationship is likely to happen.
Are these the greatest romances that games have to offer? Probably not. I'm sure there are a few many can agree with, but it is a rather unconventional list. I'm not even sure if I agree with it (what?). I do like more couples, but I really wanted to avoid just fan choice and go with canon. #7 is somewhat canon and #5 is a joke, don't take it seriously. Sorry if it feels spur of the moment. It is. I do find these wonderful couples in games though. Feel free to share your favorites!
As it is Valentine's Day I would like to list some of my favorite video game couples. These are entirely of my opinion and you are welcome to disagree. Also, these are in no particular order, I'm just typing them down as I recall them.
1. Tidus and Yuna - Final Fantasy X: One of the best romances in Final Fantasy imo. I happen to be a total sucker for those romances that just cannot be. Why can't they be together? They love each other!! This is one of those couples to me. Want to know how much of a nerd I am, my friend finished this game and played the ending to me over the phone. I was bawling like a baby despite I didn't watch it!! True story. Luckily, Final Fantasy X-2 allows you to choose to reunite with Tidus. Awww... Yes I did tear up many times throughout the game.
2. Nathan and Elena - Uncharted: These two are just so cute together. Nathan is a lovable rogue. Elena is a sweet, no-nonsense girl. I loved the ending of these two together at the end of Uncharted 2. I haven't followed up much on Uncharted 3 on purpose, but I hope that this romance will live on there.
3. Hiro and Lucia - Lunar 2: Eternal Blue: This is one of the early couples for me. I played the Complete version on the PS1 before I played Silver. It's kind of a cheesy, animu couple that largely relies on nostalgia, but I still love it.
4. The Wanderer and Mono - Shadows of the Colossus: Much like #1, this is a total unrequited romance. More so than the earlier choices as we don't really know much about the relationship. Mono could possibly not know The Wanderer, he could be some weird stalker for all we know! I don't think that. His damned quest to retrieve her soul is a truly powerful tale. The ending makes me cry as well. The Wanderer being attacked by the clergy (?) yet still focused on Mono waking up makes me tear up.
5. Kayako and YOU - Ju-On - She just won't leave me alone.
6. U-1 and Kirah - Gitaroo Man - The ultimate love song!
7. Eileen Galvin and Walter Sulivan - This is more of a fan thing. D-don't ask too much about it.
8. Vyse and Aika and Fina - Skies of Arcadia - This is my favorite game of all time. Unlike your FFVII, this game completely avoids the love triangle. The game neither supports or rejects Vyse ending up with either girl. While I am more partial to Fina, I do believe a Sister Wives relationship is likely to happen.
Are these the greatest romances that games have to offer? Probably not. I'm sure there are a few many can agree with, but it is a rather unconventional list. I'm not even sure if I agree with it (what?). I do like more couples, but I really wanted to avoid just fan choice and go with canon. #7 is somewhat canon and #5 is a joke, don't take it seriously. Sorry if it feels spur of the moment. It is. I do find these wonderful couples in games though. Feel free to share your favorites!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Lost in Shadow Review
NOTE: I have not finished this game. I have played enough that I feel like I can give an opinion on. If you are curious, I stopped playing at the part of the third floor in the shadow of the tower.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Sorry for being so slow
I know I haven't kept up on doing what I've said I would do (like The Last Exorcism review. I'll sum up my thoughts: The entire premise to question the supernatural and psychological aspects of possession is quite interesting and I love the mockumentary style as we watch a preacher who has questioned his faith expose the dirty tricks he has performed as an exorcism. The ending pretty much ruins this film, but the rest is quite well done and keeps you interested as you want to know if this young girl is truly possessed or just crazy).
In regards to Amnesia, I haven't had time to really play it. I started school again and changed majors, still have my job, and wanted to finish Lost in Shadow to do a review (I PROMISE I'll do that very soon. I'm not done with the game, but I've played enough to give an honest review). I will finish Amnesia, do not worry. I just do not have the time to do so. Also, what I like about leaving the videos out for a little while is I get more comments later on. I love receiving comments still for Ju-On and Calling.
The pace right now is one blog post per month which I'm not proud of. I will try and work on reviews of anything (tv shows, movies, games etc.) to keep it up, but I do want it be mostly a videogame blog. I have so many games I need to finish, maybe spicing it up with other things won't be so bad inbetween.
In regards to Amnesia, I haven't had time to really play it. I started school again and changed majors, still have my job, and wanted to finish Lost in Shadow to do a review (I PROMISE I'll do that very soon. I'm not done with the game, but I've played enough to give an honest review). I will finish Amnesia, do not worry. I just do not have the time to do so. Also, what I like about leaving the videos out for a little while is I get more comments later on. I love receiving comments still for Ju-On and Calling.
The pace right now is one blog post per month which I'm not proud of. I will try and work on reviews of anything (tv shows, movies, games etc.) to keep it up, but I do want it be mostly a videogame blog. I have so many games I need to finish, maybe spicing it up with other things won't be so bad inbetween.
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