(An A to Z 2014 Challenge Entry)

Jamin Winans is one of my favorite independent filmmakers. He has a handful of shorts under his belt, but so far only two full-length features. And I’ve only see one. This isn’t to say I haven’t tried to find his first film online. The movie I have seen, via Netflix, is Ink. Winans wrote the script and musical score to Ink, as well as directed and edited the film. I’m kind of surprised he didn’t act in it. Ink was produced by Double Edge Films, which is an independent production company created by Jamin and his wife. His wife was also heavily involved in making this movie become a reality.

I love when an artist is so involved in their work, as mentioned in Video Games. Here is one of the trailers:

 
I fell in love with this movie upon my first viewing. That may seem awkward, or rather logical, but sometimes it can take a few exposures to a movie, TV show, or even a song, to develop an appreciation for it. I instantly felt the desire to try to get various friends and family members to watch the movie. I get that way at times…

Originally, I would always warn people about the movies budget, which is fairly evident — even somewhat from the trailer. I learned Jamin had somewhere between 200-250k to produce this movie, which isn’t a lot. For some reason he couldn’t get backing beyond that. What he created on that budget, however, I find amazing. In some ways, I think it helps the movie focus more on the story than special effects. For what Ink may lack in production theatrics, it more than makes up for in heart. It’s a very character driven piece, and those are my favorite kind.

From time to time I listen to the soundtrack, which has helped kick-start my creative motivation. In fact, I just mentioned I have various “work in progress” (WiP) playlists on my Spotify. The one song appearing on each playlist is “The City Surf”:



In all honesty, I love the entire soundtrack, but that is my favorite song from it. I almost freaked out when I heard it being used in The Grey, another movie I recommend — especially if you are a Liam Neeson fan!

Currently, Jamin’s third film, titled The Frame, is in post-production. I’m highly looking forward to finally be able to experience another of his creations. It can’t come soon enough!

A random fun fact: During my first viewing of Ink, there was a scene that was so reminiscent of a short I saw on Youtube (one I really liked) just weeks before that I became upset that the director had blatantly ripped it off. There were too many similarities to be a coincidence for me to believe it was unintentional. I ranted about this for some time, but I couldn’t recall the title of the video to compare. Eventually, I found the video and come to find out it was a short by none other than Jamin Winans. I thought it was hilarious, and understood why he would use something so similar in such a pivotal scene in Ink. And then all was right with the world once again…

Here is that short, Spin:


If ever having the time to, I highly recommend checking out Ink. If you do, or if you’ve seen it before, what are your thoughts on the movie (sans spoilers, of course!)? Do you have a favorite independent director? If so, who and what movies did they direct? Any favorite motion picture soundtrack? If you watched Spin, what did you think?

(An A to Z 2014 Challenge Entry)

After much deliberation, I thought I had finally decided what I would do for my “V” post. I was close. So close. But I chickened out. I was going to make a video to share, but I just didn’t feel completely comfortable with doing so. The Ten Things of Thankful crew would sometimes invite me to video chat. The Ladyfolk and I would be out and about exploring the city, which means usually eating. It was fun, but the invites became less frequent — and I began to lose interest — until eventually stopping altogether. I generally didn’t talk much, and I think I interfered with whatever conversations were actively being engaged, more than anything.

But…

It was a nice ice-breaker for me, as I’m not prone to feeling very videogenic. Huh, that word didn’t flag? It’s real?! Anyway, I thought it was a good stepping stone for me to begin Vlogging. I’ve had my camera for well over six months now (as well as my new mic for podcasting). I’m sure I could even find the post where I enthusiastically talked about the purchase. I just am too gun-shy. I hope to overcome that lack of confidence really soon. New models of my purchases are likely already hitting the shelves and that drives me nuts!

So, what’s all this have to do with video games? Nothing. These were just thoughts that filled my mind as I sat down to write this post. A post intended to highlight a song that my Ladyfolk exposed me to, which I immediately loved. The artist, Lana Del Rey, has an amazing voice. I have found her to be extremely passionate in all aspects of her work, which I highly respect and admire. She even produced a short independent film (which I have yet to watch, waiting for the Ladyfolk) involving her music.

If having a moment or five, won’t you check out her song “Video Games”?


Have you ever participated in video chats? Do you enjoy them? Do you Vlog or Podcast? If so, any tips or warnings for someone aspiring to partake? What did you think of the music video? I highly recommend checking out more of her work!
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A to Z 2014 : UNCLAIMED

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A to Z 2014 : UNCLAIMED

This was a challenging letter for me. I tried thinking up a multitude of words. Unbreakable, Unwavering, Unbelievable, and Unfollowing to name a few. Unfollowing/Unfriending was my original intent, in order to discuss the process that led (leads) me to remove individuals from social media and sometimes even my blogger feed. Throughout the night I remained undecided, with both this topic and also where I wanted to buy my power drinks from — Target or the gas station.

I opted for something that randomly came to me while shopping. I had very little time to finish it before Midnight, so unfortunately I had to use the “Coming Soon” cheater post. I wrote until passing out last night, and completed it this morning. A bit different than the norm on The Cryton Chronicles, and I will likely post it on my other blog, but hopefully it does the trick. And hopefully you enjoy!

(An A to Z 2014 Challenge Entry)

The Ten Things of Thankful (TToT). This is definitely an entry I should have started weeks ago, as I already knew what I planned to do. Granted, I should have just kept up with the rest of the pack, so this would have never been an issue to begin with. Sometimes I learn the hard way. Sometimes I’m just super lazy. Sometimes I’m thankful for both. Mostly I’m not. As it is, I’ve been out of touch since the TToT’s 25th post and they just wrapped up their 44th weekend.

So what’s all this Thankful business anyhow? If you aren’t familiar, I will allow the creator of the blog hop (which takes place every weekend — unless otherwise specified — so I’m breaking some the rules, but aren’t they meant to be every so often?) to explain it. She is a thousand times more prolific with the whole blogging gig than I, and I would hate to tarnish her event with my butchering tongue… or… fingers?

Click the badge below to smack link your brain with some Thankfulness knowledge:

http://summat2thinkon.blogspot.com/p/ten-things-of-thankful.html

XXVI
  1. Thanksgiving! What better way to start the return to the TToT blog hop than that? This holiday landed just a few days after my last participation.
  2. QUALITY TIME with the family.
  3. Food! Oh goodness the food on Thanksgiving! It’s so good, most of it has the distinct right to have thanks individually established...
  4. Turkey. I’m not sure how many families that skip serving turkey on Thanksgiving are out there, but that would be a crime! Maybe a vegetarian and/or vegan family? Weirdos.
  5. Stuffing. I’m honestly not a huge fan of stuffing, but I always try to take my fill during this holiday.
  6. Mashed potatoes! Now that is what I’m talking about! I love them! OM NOM NOM!
  7. Pie. Unlike cake, the pie is not a lie. My mother usually buys two or three kinds of pie for Thanksgiving. I’m really Thankful when one of them is strawberry rhubarb! It’s sometimes hard to find
  8. Full belly. Sometimes I actually regret this more than I’m Thankful for it. I’m probe to overeating on the holidays. Sometimes this can put me in some severe pain.
  9. I’m Thankful for even having the option of overeating.
  10. A restful sleep, once the pain subsides...
XXVII
  1. It was mentioned before, but I feel it bears mentioning again. I’m Thankful for not being in my car when it was involved in a Hit-and-Run.
  2. As well as no one else being injured from the impact.
  3. That some quarter crooks didn’t attempt to harm me when I foiled their plans one late evening.
  4. Back to the car. I’m glad it was totaled.
  5. I’m Thankful that the total price payout [from insurance] was substantial, rather than a mere 100$ or somewhere in that proximity.
  6. The Ladyfolk allowing me to use her car when able. This is only done maybe once or twice a week, if. For many weeks I never asked to borrow the car.
  7. Thankful that I haven’t gotten too stir crazy from lacking my own source of transportation.
  8. I’m honestly glad I was carless this Winter. It was a pretty brutal one.
  9. Once again I’m Thankful that I live in very close proximity to retailers offering the bare necessities.
  10. That I love to walk.
XXVIII
  1. Having a place to live.
  2. Despite this property being sold twice over within a year, the majority of tenants I’ve known for years are still around. Naturally, with buyouts and price/rent hikes, you are bound to lose a few.
  3. I’m happy to find that this new company may actually be backing these rent increases with actual upgrades to the apartment buildings and units.
  4. That the increases are still reasonable in comparison to other places in the area. At least once the upgrades are made…
  5. The owner being happy with my work, which has allowed me to stay here. There was a window of about a month where it was almost certain I would have to try to find a new place to live.
  6. Despite having issues with my cat, said owner is allowing me to keep him. There were some stipulations involved, but so far nothing major.
  7. That tenants were excited I was able to remain living at this location.
  8. That tenants continually come to me (even during the last buyout) for assistance rather than calling the central office.
  9. I’m thankful for the skills I learned from my original co-workers. As minimal as they may be.
  10. Being complimented on my duties.
XXIX
  1. The first snowfall. At this time, I can’t exactly recall when that was, perhaps the Ladyfolk remembers and will chime in, but I think it was around one of the major holidays. Usually it’s around Thanksgiving, sometimes Christmas. At it’s worst, Halloween.
  2. A new shovel. Without it I would have been screwed.
  3. The endurance to actually shovel some of the crazy snowfalls we got. One was exceptionally nasty. I was pretty sure it would be my final shovel before keeling over and drifting off into The Big Empty.
  4. Appreciation from tenants when helping them push their cars out of the snow.
  5. Appreciation from strangers who I helped push their cars out of the snow.
  6. I’m Thankful my Ladyfolk was awesome enough to even assist in some of these attempts!
  7. The Thanks I received from strangers as I shoveled the walks.
  8. The random conversations with some of these random strangers.
  9. The enjoyment of watching people trying to drive somewhere (why people? WHY?!) after a blizzard.
  10. That after a few swears I realize I’m the poor sap that chooses to help those crazy fuckers.
XXX
  1. I’m Thankful for the television programming that my grandmother and I have been able to enjoy together over the years. Even if some go to shit during (or before…) SEASON 3. Some of which include, but are not limited to:
  2. The X-Files.
  3. Dark Angel.
  4. Alias.
  5. Heroes.
  6. Dollhouse.
  7. LOST.
  8. Castle.
  9. Chuck.
  10. And, of course, Wheel of Fortune!
XXXI
  1. I’m also Thankful for many of the new shows (okay, okay, I guess I watch a lot of TV. Don’t judge!) that the Ladyfolk and I picked up. Some of which include, but are not limited to:
  2. Breaking Bad
  3. Sons of Anarchy.
  4. Game of Thrones.
  5. The Blacklist.
  6. The Following.
  7. The Murdoch Mysteries.
  8. Supernatural.
  9. Crisis.
  10. Soon to be LOST (for my official second viewing).
XXXII
  1. I am very Thankful that I was eventually talked into visiting the doctor. It was a combination of that and very annoying, persistent complications.
  2. The new medication I’ve been on. When I remember to take it.
  3. The new blood sugar tester I received. Though, I forget to test it often…
  4. That my tooth stopped trying to kill me. I really should get it looked at.
  5. Thankful that I began to lose some weight.
  6. Happy that I wasn’t too bummed out, when I started to put some weight back on through the holidays.
  7. And thereafter…
  8. And still some…
  9. That I feel determined to start exercising more regularly.
  10. And also the desire to eat healthier!
XXXIII
  1. I talked myself into participating in NANOWRIMO again last year.
  2. I made myself attend the Countdown Event, where everyone gathers together at a regional location to begin writing right at the stroke of Midnight. It was a lot of fun.
  3. I’m Thankful for meeting a handful of new writers during said Countdown Event.
  4. I started a new story, which had come to me just the week prior to NaNo’s beginning.
  5. Even though I became frustrated, I pushed through it and kept writing. Sometimes I wasn’t as successful as others.
  6. That is until I stopped. The last NaNo season didn’t feel like the first one I participated in the year before. Though, I was proud I still kept writing, even if I no longer bothered keeping track of my progress. I knew I wouldn’t hit the 50k mark without a miracle.
  7. Even though that miracle never occurred, I still believe in them!
  8. Writing NaNo 2013’s story opened up a vast gulf of ideas. I’m incredibly Thankful for that. Not so much the lack of motivation to put those ideas on paper. Or word doc.
  9. I am Thankful beyond words that I was able to see a select few of my past NaNo friends at a write-in before November passed. Many familiar faces, but there were still a few missing.
  10. I know that those people are still out there, doing their thing, somewhere in time. I wonder if they ever think of me.  
XXXIV
  1. Thankful for more family gatherings during Christmas, even if it is more stressful now due to juggling between two families again.
  2. That all my brothers really liked and appreciated my CREATIVE COMMONS gifts!
  3. I appreciate that my siblings were patient with me. I wasn’t able to present the gift until about two weeks after Christmas.
  4. I’m grateful that I found the ability to be proud of myself and my work. This is a rare occurrence.
  5. I’m really glad the Ladyfolk and I were able to manage both family gatherings. It was a bit hectic, but we survived.
  6. That during Christmas I felt welcomed by the Ladyfolk’s family, some of whom they only see sporadically over the course of a year.
  7. Learning a card game called Junk.
  8. I’m Thankful I’m a fast learner. It only took a few rounds to get the hang of the game, which at first appearance seemed very complicated. It’s really not so bad.
  9. For all the great food and gifts shared among both families!
  10. Maybe even more so for all the leftovers offered!
XXXV
  1. I’ve actually never spoken about it, but a few months back the Ladyfolk and I were almost pummeled by a deer while on the highway. I’m not even sure how to explain it. It all seemed like slow motion, but picture show-esque. If that makes any sense. I’m honestly clueless how we didn’t plow right into it. Thankfully we didn’t.
  2. I’m glad it was dreamlike and surreal. I’m not exactly sure why, but I am. In fact, the next day I had completely forgotten about it.
  3. That perhaps I have minor psychic abilities. This all took place in the very location where the Ladyfolk said, while I was asleep and she was driving, I told her to slow down and be careful. I don’t recall doing this, but it was kind of creepy it’s the spot where the deer tried to carjack us.
  4. Thankful that the no one else hit the deer too!
  5. That perhaps we had someone, or something, watching out for us.
  6. While on cars and accidents, I’m appreciative that the Ladyfolk was able to get help in the matter of a pending court case revolving around a fender bender she was apart of.
  7. Though stressed and overwhelmed, I’m proud at how well she handled herself.
  8. Learning that the culprit who was involved in my Hit-and-Run case had a court day set.
  9. This may seem odd, but I’m Thankful I didn’t pursue any court appearance on my end, or attempting to complicate the process for said individual. I heard they were younger, so in the end, after some contemplation, I was happy that their sentence was reduced.
  10. I’m hopeful they learned from the experience. And if so, I am very thankful.
XXXVI
  1. For my new XBox One.
  2. That my Ladyfolk made it possible for me to obtain said XBox One!
  3. I was incredibly happy to find that a good friend also purchased the system. This is actually what spurred me to get mine. I was certain he wouldn’t have his for another year, at least, but he called me up with a surprise.
  4. That unlike the systems available right at the launch date, my system came with a digital download of Titanfall.
  5. Titanfall. Yes, I’m Thankful for Titanfall.
  6. I appreciate my friend inviting me over to play Titanfall when it was first released, so that I could get some hands on experience. This also greatly influenced my deciding to buy the XBox One.
  7. That the XBox One system is quiet. Compared to it’s predecessor it’s damn near completely silent.
  8. It’s also faster. No longer does it take ten minutes to load an app like Netflix to watch something. It’s a relief.
  9. I’m Thankful I was able to pay back the cost in full to the Ladyfolk in a very timely fashion.
  10. That, soon, I have a date with DESTINY!
XXXVII
  1. I’m Thankful for MOMENTS of all kinds. They allow me to experience, to feel, to live.
  2. I’m thankful that somehow I’ve been able to come up with so many Thankfuls in one sitting. If anyone claims I’m cheating I will cut them!
  3. I’m grateful that, in reality, I wouldn’t actually cut someone if they called me a cheater! Or anything else really.
  4. I love people with a sense of humor. I’m appreciative of those that can take the good with the bad.
  5. That sometimes I’m able to laugh at myself.
  6. I’m almost always able to laugh at myself.
  7. I’m Thankful that I find myself to be hilarious, at least in my mind. Somebody has to, right?
  8. That sometimes others, besides myself, find me to be hilarious too.
  9. I’m Thankful for those who are able to help me when I’m living through a bad moment.
  10. The good days greatly outweigh the bad.
XXXVIII
  1. I reconnected with a friend from high school.
  2. For the times he and I have been able to hang out since getting back in touch.
  3. All the Indian cuisine we consume when he visits. It’s our ritual now. He claims to not eat for two days prior, because he knows how much he will eat!
  4. That despite his past health conditions, my friend is doing relatively well.
  5. Thankful he got his Masters in Statistics.
  6. His multiple job opportunities, after a long dry spell.
  7. That he was able to fly out to LA-LA LAND for an interview without having a panic attack. It was the first time he had ever flown. He was prepared with proper medication.
  8. I’m very Thankful that his time in LA was a great experience, even if it doesn’t end up resulting in getting the job. He had a wonderful time. The people he met there went above and beyond making him feel at home.
  9. Proud my friend still turned in his paperwork for a paid internship, even though he is waiting at the edge of his seat for an offer from the company out in LA.
  10. That he and I are able to discuss various opinions about his job/internship situation without the friendship deteriorating.
XXXIX
  1. Skipping back a beat. I’m Thankful for any and all gifts received during Christmas 2013.
  2. I also am Grateful for the gifts I received on my birthday.
  3. The wonderful dinner at Olive Garden, even though my aunt had some bad luck with her dish. They were kind about accommodating her.
  4. I love the teasing of my grandma and her always asking for more meat sauce to go with her meal. She always does. It all absorbs into the noodles she says!
  5. My birthday movie! We went to see The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. I thought it was great! In fact, everyone enjoyed it!
  6. The birthday cake my grandmother made for me. Wish I had a picture of it. It looks kind of plain, but it tastes amazing.
  7. In general, I’m Thankful for all the joking and time we were able to share that night together.
  8. Playing cards with the Ladyfolk, grandmother, and aunt.
  9. I think I won once or twice. It was sweet! We play with money! My grandma isn’t too keen on playing for nothing!
  10. Feeling comfortable with the company I kept, even when out and about at busier locations. It may sound odd, because I was with family and my girlfriend, but I’m still prone to anxiety attacks.
XL
  1. Music. I love music! I have a handful of playlists made up on my Spotify account. Most of them are split into writing project categories. So each work in progress (WiP) has a soundtrack. I’m Thankful for when these inspire my pieces, and so I thought I would share some of them and which WiP they are associated with.
  2. “Radioactive” - Imagine Dragons - After Armageddon
  3. “Hey Man, Nice Shot” - Filter - After Armageddon
  4. “More Human Than Human” - White Zombie - After Armageddon
  5. “Leaving Hope” - Nine Inch Nails - After Armageddon
  6. “Imagine” - A Perfect Circle - I, Jak (The Cryton Chronicles)
  7. “Say Something” - A Great Big World - I, Jak (The Cryton Chronicles)
  8. “Time” - Hans Zimmer (Inception) - I, Jak (The Cryton Chronicles)
  9. “Passive” - A Perfect Circle - Demons of Twilight
  10. “The City Surf” - Jamin Winans - After Armageddon, Demons of Twilight, I, Jak (The Cryton Chronicles. I absolutely love this song, if you couldn’t tell. And yes, I have a blog soundtrack! What blogger doesn’t?! Don’t judge!
XLI
  1. It’s no secret, I love my snacks and treats. It’s also true that I have severely slacked off on my exercise routine. It went from six days a week, to three, to maybe one, until finally never. I’m not Thankful for that break down, but I am that I was even going at all!
  2. As mentioned above — way above — I’ve increasingly become motivated to finally get into a healthier lifestyle. I’m grateful for this. I’m thankful for this building motivation more than I can express. Now to initiate and take action. Follow through.
  3. Planet Fitness and their 10$ monthly fee.
  4. I realize it’s going to be hard to shift my diet habits. I love, and am Thankful, for said treats. Some of which include, but are not limited to:
  5. Arby’s turnovers.
  6. Arby’s JAMOCHA shake.
  7. Soft bake chocolate chip cookies from McDonald's. They are actually really good!
  8. Dairy Queen! Our personal favorite.
  9. Pretzels. Doughnuts. Cake. Pie… You get the idea...
  10. The belief that I will be able to moderate myself and practice healthy portion control when it comes to all of these delicious foods. All foods.
XLII
  1. Magic: The Gathering.
  2. Outpost 2000 and their bulk stock  of cards I’m able to sort through.
  3. The Source and their bulk stock of cards I’m able to sort through.
  4. I’m Thankful I have finished up going through these retailer’s bulk stock of cards. At the same time, I’m kind of disappointed, because I love going through Magic cards. At least The Source regularly buys collections!
  5. For the handful of great singles I found while going through the retailer’s collections. Sometimes you can find a gem or three. Cards like FORBIDDEN ALCHEMY!
  6. The recent Modern format tournament I attended with my brother and some friends. It was a great time! We all hung out afterwards and gamed some more.
  7. Even though none of us played exceptionally well, we all had a fun time. It was great to just play.
  8. The establishment and the other players in the tournament. They were all very friendly. Sometimes at these events, even the small ones, you can get a few pricks in the mix. They really kill the vibe.
  9. I’m glad most of my opponents appeared and/or… smelled… bathed. Another common stigma surrounding Magic players is that they have horrid hygiene. Sometimes it’s true. Very true. All too real. This also kills the vibe.
  10. The fact that I’ve actually been able to play Magic a handful of times over the past two months. It had been way way too long.
XLIII
  1. Aside from video games and Magic, I also enjoy a variety of other games. I’m Thankful for those that I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing. Some of which include, but are not limited to:
  2. Boss Monster.
  3. Cards Against Humanity.
  4. Dixit.
  5. Munchkin.
  6. Smash Up.
  7. And aside from TV shows I’ve listed above, I am a huge movie buff. The Ladyfolk and I don’t go as often as we used to, but I hope that changes soon. I’m Thankful for those we have been able to see and ones we will be seeing eventually. Even those that may not live up to my expectations. Some of which include, but are not limited to:
  9. Elysium.
XLIV
  1. I’m so incredibly, unbelievably, unconditionally Thankful that I only have Ten more Things of Thankful to share! Make that nine…
  2. That I decided not to continue my hiatus and ABSENCE from the Blogosphere.
  3. My motivation to participate in the A to Z Challenge this year.
  4. The new friends I’ve made during this challenge.
  5. The fact that the Ladyfolk also decided to participate!
  6. That the Ladyfolk, and most of those who know me, or just met me, are patient with my catching up skills!
  7. Finding new comments on my fiction blog!
  8. My mad skills in placing about 85% of my A to Z entries throughout this massive Ten Things of Thankful. Maybe it isn’t that hard, but I still impress myself.
  9. My Ladyfolk! Today she said she had a headache and that she needed me to distract her. I knew exactly what that meant! It meant EVERYTHING IS AWESOME!
  10. The knowledge that while I may have lost touch with people over time, there is always the option to reconnect!
TL;DR
Oh My Nuts! That was a beast to write. And only an hour past the Midnight mark. I almost didn’t even have to use the cheater “coming soon” post. Not too shabby. There is the very distinct possibility that this post is just way too long for people to read, especially during the A to Z Challenge. I attempted to keep most of the lists brief. Just in case, though…

TL;DR: I’m immensely Thankful for many things in my life! You should be too! Perhaps you should check out the Ten Things of Thankful blog hop. The community involved is very active. I will post the badge again for those interested! Click it to link to more information regarding this weekly event!

http://summat2thinkon.blogspot.com/p/ten-things-of-thankful.html

How Thankful are you? Are you familiar with the TToT blog hop? If not, I hope you decide to check it out and link up soon! Feel free to list the things you feel Thankful for at the moment!

A to Z 2014 : SEASON 3

(An A to Z 2014 Challenge Entry)

I’m always conflicted when I proclaim I barely ever watch TV. It feels good to say, like I am somehow a better person for not being a slave to the Boob Tube (a phrase I assume originated based on intellect, but has since become anatomical). Technically I feel my statement is true. The only day I actually watch anything on TV is on Mondays while visiting my grandmother. We have our shows.

But I watch a ton of Netflix and Amazon Instant Video, catching up on various shows I’ve missed over the years, on my game system. Does that count a watching TV? What about when I use those services on my laptop? Does playing my game system, since it’s hooked up to the TV? What if listening to Spotify or a CD? Are you then always listening to the radio?! GAH! So many questions, so little time. Anyway, let’s get back on track...

Back to TV. I have a long string of television series that I make an effort to keep up with, and those that have already completed their run, which I love. I definitely have my favorites, as I’m sure most do. Lately, though, I’ve seemed to notice a trend with some series that I watch: that season 3 seems to be a “make it or break it” point for me. Meaning I feel that either the storyline and/or characters begin to falter or become nonsensical within the context of what the show has previously created.

And while it’s not true of all, nor does it necessarily completely tarnish my love for a show, I believe it to be so more often than not. Many factors can contribute to this. Change in casting, writer strikes and/or simply a change of writers in general, network “bigwigs” dictating and/or suppressing creative freedoms, current writers simply not knowing what the fuck they are doing, etc etc…

I thought I would share some series that I felt began to fall apart during their third season run, barring too much detail, so spoilers are avoided. If commenting I’d appreciate the same in return.

Heroes & Prison Break

Heroes quickly became one of my favorite series when it came on the air. Eventually a friend convinced me to watch Prison Break and I was then hooked on that. My grandmother as well. I think both of these series started out really strong right out of the gate. The first seasons were great. I was worried, once each wrapped up their first season finales, where they would take the series.

I believe both of these series were hit hard by a writer’s strike. Each were forced to cut seasons short, due to this complication. Afterwards, though, I think issues continued due to a possible changing of the guard in writing departments. Prison Break stumbled some, but I feel found it’s footing and recovered (barely) from there on out. I was still disappointed, overall, with the final seasons and eventual series finale. It was a far cry from the shitstorm Heroes morphed into.

Heroes… I honestly have no idea what to say about the creeping — then rapid — deterioration of the series. From extreme character inconsistencies to implausible, nonsensical plotlines. Heroes ran the full gamut fuckery gauntlet. Over time, it became incredibly difficult for me to watch, but I forced myself to. A glutton for punishment I guess. I can’t really go into details, because they would spoil much of the series.

Oddly enough, I still would recommend the series and have. Especially the first season. If they think they can stomach the rest, I say go for it. There are a few saving grace moments. I think… Then there is this newly released teaser trailer:

I am hoping to God that they realize just how much potential they pissed on, and treat this supposed mini-series with a lot more respect. I’m guessing they will, in hopes that they can possibly reboot the series if it’s a success. Please… please don’t fuck this up!

Alias & Sons of Anarchy

Alias was another of my all-time favorite television series. In fact, I will give most anything J.J. Abrams creates a chance (currently Believe isn’t living up to my expectations). Sons of Anarchy is another great show that the Ladyfolk and I are currently catching up on. These two shows have almost nothing in common, with the exception of their Season 3 shenanigans.

It’s been a long time since watching Alias, and I actually never finished the series due to coming upon a Season 4 spoiler, but I believe Season 3 is when they introduced an out-of-the-blue, random, confusing storyline/plot twist. This took place right away in the Season 3 premiere episode. The previous seasons finale had been so intense and amazing, that this sudden transition was literally jolting for me. I was possibly even mildly upset. It eventually recovered, but like I said, due to the spoiler, I never saw beyond mid-season 4. I own the entire collection, so I guess I should get on it.

Son of Anarchy followed in the same vein. It wasn’t so much a confusing transition, but it really felt like the storyline carried throughout season 3 was not fully fleshed out. Many plotline and character inconsistencies plagued my enjoyment. As usual, there were still many great moments, but I was relieved that the final episodes of the season ended on a very strong note. If it’s one thing that Sons of Anarchy is really consistent with, it’s strong, emotional season finales. Currently on season six, the series definitely seems to be going strong, but I am hoping it ends while it’s ahead. Much akin to Breaking Bad (another series I highly recommend, and am skipping discussion on during this entry).

Supernatural

And finally Supernatural. The reason I picked this topic. This is a television series that had been recommended to me by multiple people. For a long while I avoided it. My brother is currently watching it, and that got me to give the premiere episode a watch. It hooked me. I’m already a geek when it comes to ghosts, spirits, lore, monsters, etc etc, so this was a good fit.

Come season 3, however (which we are currently on), I have found some of the same aforementioned inconsistencies popping up. Characters acting in ways in direct contradiction with earlier actions. Plot lines/plot points which were once important in context of the lore built up in the series seems secondhand and largely disregarded. It has begun to irritate me, but I am remaining hopeful that it will all smooth out. They are on Season 9 or something now, so it has to be just a brief rough patch. A bump in the road. Either that or there are a few million gluttons for punishment.

One of them being me.

What are some of your favorite television series? Have you found any specific seasons of a television series to go completely off the tracks? Changes that may even cause you to lose interest in the series? Feel free to share, but please avoid spoilers!

recent CHRONICLES

Featured In I, Jak
Hello, Friend
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Hello, Friend
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It’s been a long while. I briefly discuss some of this year’s shortcomings, and in doing so, find it’s just more of the same.

Then I attempt to give a more positive spin…

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Extra Life Game Day 2021
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Extra Life Game Day 2021
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Extra Life Game Day 2021 has arrived! It’s Year 8 for myself and I am looking forward to once again raise money for Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare. Team Cryton Crusaders is ready (kind of) for the annual fundraising event involving a 24-Hour Gaming Marathon! I kept last year’s fun, but likely impossible Milestone to reach!

Learn more about the challenge where my team and I play games and heal kids!

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recent ENTERTAINMENT

Featured
102 | TRAILER TUESDAY | 102
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102 | TRAILER TUESDAY | 102
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Welcome to Trailer Tuesday, a weekly Generation Jak blog series where a multitude of movie, video game, and sometimes even book trailers are highlighted for your viewing pleasure!

This week's Featured Trailers:
Jessica Jones Season 2 - Teaser Trailer | Ready Player One | Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom | Alita: Battle Angel | Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse - Teaser Trailer

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101 | TRAILER TUESDAY | 101
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101 | TRAILER TUESDAY | 101
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Welcome to Trailer Tuesday, a weekly Generation Jak blog series where a multitude of movie, video game, and sometimes even book trailers are highlighted for your viewing pleasure!

This week's Featured Trailers:
The Shape of Water | Wormwood | All the Money in the World | Avengers: Infinity War | Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom - Trailer Teaser | Batman Ninja

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recent DREAMSCAPES

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A to Z 2017 [FLASH FICTION]: REFLECTIONS
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A to Z 2017 [FLASH FICTION]: REFLECTIONS
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This year's A to Z Challenge is over, but how did I fare with another attempt at producing Flash Fiction and Poetry throughout it all? Did I run into the same complications as last year?

Join me as I reflect on the challenge and the thoughts about my continued participation on Dreams in the Shade of Ink.

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A to Z 2017: ZACHARIAH
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A to Z 2017: ZACHARIAH
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Dreams in the Shade of Ink is back with more Flash Fiction for the A to Z Challenge 2017! Last year my segments throughout April painted a puzzled tapestry of prose and I hope to provide some new, entertaining stories that you'll enjoy!

Come share in my inky dreams full of fiction, sprinkled with poetry!

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recent META

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A to Z 2017 [MAGIC MIXER]: REFLECTIONS
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A to Z 2017 [MAGIC MIXER]: REFLECTIONS
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The A to Z Challenge 2017 is over and it's time to reflect on how the event went! There were booster pack openings, there were storylines and mechanics to observe within the world of Magic: The Gathering!

Join me as I discuss the ups and downs of this year's Magic Mixer theme.

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A to Z 2017: ZENDIKAR
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A to Z 2017: ZENDIKAR
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This year for the A to Z Challenge 2017 Meta MTG presents the Magic Mixer! What's that mean? Your guess is as good as mine... What I do know, however, is that this year's theme is obviously still all about Magic: The Gathering!

Join me as I attempt to highlight a different Magic set each day of the challenge in different ways, from pack openings to discussions about a set's storyline and/or mechanics!

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