The Benjamins
A new fiscal year and that means interest. I completely forgot it was coming, it's always a good surprise when you find more cash. I've already spent all my interest on snowboarding training, not that's there anywhere to use it around here, but you never know.
Went and saw a new house today, while I reckon I'll apply for an internship at Pinewood, there's still a good possibility of me staying here. Bigger room, bigger bed and generally very easy on the eyes. It's very close to the town and travel exchange, but not so much the University. I probably prefer that anyway.
McBlog
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
The Queen's Slamdunk
I'm a bit ticked off because now I've been all around London I can't really insult it anymore, because it is really good fun. Can't even mock the lack of foliage, since there's plenty of that. Regent's Park was great to lie back and eat a late lunch in, also had an entertaining chat with a couple of Spanish girls. It's a good thing they knew English fairly well, since I often inadvertantly end up insulting people in other languages (even when I have absolutely no knowledge of the language to make a combination of such words). I wish I'd had a bit longer to join in on the Football fields, but I had a prearranged date to make.
The Queen was already warming up by the time I got to the gates, showing off some of her dribbling to a few of the guards. I stepped in and called her out. She gave me one quick confident smirk and tossed the ball to me, shifting herself infront of the hoop. I quickly launched forward, dribbling the ball between my legs and randomly darting. She didn't move an inch, and I took the opportunity to go round to the left of her. As I came up to the hoop to jump into a slam dunk I realised that the ball was no longer in my possession.
Somewhere in the split seconds where I moved past her, she had taken the ball. She spat to the side arrogantly and strolled to edge of the court. I knew I would have to match her power of defence to even stand a chance in this game. As she began to move I quickly sprinted after her, closing the gap in an instant.
She abruptly flew into the air, soaring above my head. I was frozen in awe as each rotation came about. One, two, three, then the final half as she flew backwards to the hoop, dunking it with ease. A 1260 degree spin and dunk... this was going to be a whitewash. She stomped onto the ground, "You ain't got no game bitch."
Sure enough, as the sun began to set we finished the game with a 233 to 0 finish. I sat on the top of the palace roof with her alongside, finishing our bottles of Vittell. I wiped the sweat from my brow with my towel. "Damn Queeny, you've got some serious moves." She looked to me and just sighed.
"Though the result would've been the same you could've at least concentrated."
That threw me a bit. "What do you mean, I was trying as hard as I could."
"Your mind was distracted."
She was right, so I gave her the rundown of what was on my mind. How I had been fine but at the weekend I'd been thrown well into the past again. Then she swatted me round the back of the head. "You pansy, get over it."
Never had words given me so much vigor with their mighty wisdom. I nodded, "Yes... I promise I will."
"Whatever."
Then she kicked me off the roof and I was smushed. Or was I?
I'm a bit ticked off because now I've been all around London I can't really insult it anymore, because it is really good fun. Can't even mock the lack of foliage, since there's plenty of that. Regent's Park was great to lie back and eat a late lunch in, also had an entertaining chat with a couple of Spanish girls. It's a good thing they knew English fairly well, since I often inadvertantly end up insulting people in other languages (even when I have absolutely no knowledge of the language to make a combination of such words). I wish I'd had a bit longer to join in on the Football fields, but I had a prearranged date to make.
The Queen was already warming up by the time I got to the gates, showing off some of her dribbling to a few of the guards. I stepped in and called her out. She gave me one quick confident smirk and tossed the ball to me, shifting herself infront of the hoop. I quickly launched forward, dribbling the ball between my legs and randomly darting. She didn't move an inch, and I took the opportunity to go round to the left of her. As I came up to the hoop to jump into a slam dunk I realised that the ball was no longer in my possession.
Somewhere in the split seconds where I moved past her, she had taken the ball. She spat to the side arrogantly and strolled to edge of the court. I knew I would have to match her power of defence to even stand a chance in this game. As she began to move I quickly sprinted after her, closing the gap in an instant.
She abruptly flew into the air, soaring above my head. I was frozen in awe as each rotation came about. One, two, three, then the final half as she flew backwards to the hoop, dunking it with ease. A 1260 degree spin and dunk... this was going to be a whitewash. She stomped onto the ground, "You ain't got no game bitch."
Sure enough, as the sun began to set we finished the game with a 233 to 0 finish. I sat on the top of the palace roof with her alongside, finishing our bottles of Vittell. I wiped the sweat from my brow with my towel. "Damn Queeny, you've got some serious moves." She looked to me and just sighed.
"Though the result would've been the same you could've at least concentrated."
That threw me a bit. "What do you mean, I was trying as hard as I could."
"Your mind was distracted."
She was right, so I gave her the rundown of what was on my mind. How I had been fine but at the weekend I'd been thrown well into the past again. Then she swatted me round the back of the head. "You pansy, get over it."
Never had words given me so much vigor with their mighty wisdom. I nodded, "Yes... I promise I will."
"Whatever."
Then she kicked me off the roof and I was smushed. Or was I?
Sunday, April 01, 2007
I had a game of basketball while I was in Oxford, which was good fun. I was pretty proud of a missed jump shot that bounced off the basket and hit one of the other team on the back of the head. Won't be able to hang up my directing shoes for basketball trainers yet though.
The weather in London should be good tomorrow. The rest of the week's sort of forecasted a bit worse so I figure I'll play the odds. 'Course the pollution's also supposed to be a bit high, but whatever. I thought about dropping by Ravensbourne but I reckon I'll just enjoy the day out there. Since I enjoyed yesterday I reckon I'll challenge the Queen to shoot some hoops. I'll give her a good handicap on my side since I just got a nasty burn on my arm (damned irons), anyway we'll see if she's got any game.
The weather in London should be good tomorrow. The rest of the week's sort of forecasted a bit worse so I figure I'll play the odds. 'Course the pollution's also supposed to be a bit high, but whatever. I thought about dropping by Ravensbourne but I reckon I'll just enjoy the day out there. Since I enjoyed yesterday I reckon I'll challenge the Queen to shoot some hoops. I'll give her a good handicap on my side since I just got a nasty burn on my arm (damned irons), anyway we'll see if she's got any game.
Friday, March 30, 2007
My Head
Feels so muddled at the moment. I think I've hit the overload of contradictions and the like that I can handle for the time being.
I'm thinking over an Avid Internship at Pinewood Studios for a year. It's a very good career move and I'm certainly leaning towards going for it. It'll definitely be difficult to sort out (as well as get in in the first place), but I guess I need to try. I'll miss Bournemouth for the year I'll be gone, but it'll be fun to meet some new people too. Plus the amount I'll learn will be incredible.
Feels so muddled at the moment. I think I've hit the overload of contradictions and the like that I can handle for the time being.
I'm thinking over an Avid Internship at Pinewood Studios for a year. It's a very good career move and I'm certainly leaning towards going for it. It'll definitely be difficult to sort out (as well as get in in the first place), but I guess I need to try. I'll miss Bournemouth for the year I'll be gone, but it'll be fun to meet some new people too. Plus the amount I'll learn will be incredible.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Vigilante of the Day
Since most vigilantes tend to come out during the day, I figured that the day was a bit of a blank period. While it may seem that most crime comes out while the sun's set, there's still some fierce goings on while it's light and the police can only do so much.
Now part of the challenge was to make a persona that would stop any reprisal when I was 'off duty' and create a lasting presence among those who commit crime during the day. I brainstormed a few off hand ideas, but most of them sounded like bad porn titles. I also wanted to set up an 0800 number for calls, but BT suggested that it would probably damage my secret identity.
While I was out and on my way to town to buy some nipple tassles (mathematically they would add an average of 187% terror to my foes), I saw someone parked on double yellow lines and on the other side of the road someone getting mugged. A police car pulled out, dragged the driver of the car parked illegally out and drove off while beating him in the back seat. I quickly leapt to action, even though I wasn't ready I would have to act.
As I approached the man being assaulted was already on the ground and in a fetal position. The thief turned round to sprint, and my body instinctively kicked into action. After a terrifying exchange of blows, mostly from him to me, his fists eventually gave in. Exhausted, he put up little resistance as I pushed him over a nearby fence into a shallow stream.
Triumphantly I picked up the bag the robber had tried to take, the man immensely grateful as I walked over to return it. I glanced in the bag to see what it was I'd recovered, finding a Garfield DVD. I almost choked, the rage was indescribable. "It's movies like these that have been killing Bill Murray's career!"
I quickly slammed the disc onto the floor and began stomping it into powder. "Making a sequel to this garbage, but he won't even do another Ghostbusters!"
The man was clearly terrified and swiftly ran off. I quickly broke down on the pavement, sobbing and wondering why the ones we love so much hurt us so.
Since most vigilantes tend to come out during the day, I figured that the day was a bit of a blank period. While it may seem that most crime comes out while the sun's set, there's still some fierce goings on while it's light and the police can only do so much.
Now part of the challenge was to make a persona that would stop any reprisal when I was 'off duty' and create a lasting presence among those who commit crime during the day. I brainstormed a few off hand ideas, but most of them sounded like bad porn titles. I also wanted to set up an 0800 number for calls, but BT suggested that it would probably damage my secret identity.
While I was out and on my way to town to buy some nipple tassles (mathematically they would add an average of 187% terror to my foes), I saw someone parked on double yellow lines and on the other side of the road someone getting mugged. A police car pulled out, dragged the driver of the car parked illegally out and drove off while beating him in the back seat. I quickly leapt to action, even though I wasn't ready I would have to act.
As I approached the man being assaulted was already on the ground and in a fetal position. The thief turned round to sprint, and my body instinctively kicked into action. After a terrifying exchange of blows, mostly from him to me, his fists eventually gave in. Exhausted, he put up little resistance as I pushed him over a nearby fence into a shallow stream.
Triumphantly I picked up the bag the robber had tried to take, the man immensely grateful as I walked over to return it. I glanced in the bag to see what it was I'd recovered, finding a Garfield DVD. I almost choked, the rage was indescribable. "It's movies like these that have been killing Bill Murray's career!"
I quickly slammed the disc onto the floor and began stomping it into powder. "Making a sequel to this garbage, but he won't even do another Ghostbusters!"
The man was clearly terrified and swiftly ran off. I quickly broke down on the pavement, sobbing and wondering why the ones we love so much hurt us so.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Sunday is the day of rest, and so I've taken the opportunity to rest up today. I did have to go shopping for my friend's birthday. I picked him up a pack of fifty condoms, so his fiance'll be going splits with me on the gift I guess. In actual fact I bought him a book on film, but I'm going to change the cover title to "If you want to make Films get your big buttery ass up and start making them". It's a subliminal message that should get him started in the right path.
On the whole this has been a very unusual week, but I've enjoyed it. I've seen some sides of people that I hadn't seen before, and felt some real progression in my career.
I've noticed that I've changed a lot since I came to Bournemouth. However, there is one particular constant. My mind rarely ever falls blank (which is why I have a relatively tough time getting to sleep), and seems to be trying to unravel things I don't yet understand (and things I think I do). Unfortunately this is normally 90% unimportant information.
On the whole this has been a very unusual week, but I've enjoyed it. I've seen some sides of people that I hadn't seen before, and felt some real progression in my career.
I've noticed that I've changed a lot since I came to Bournemouth. However, there is one particular constant. My mind rarely ever falls blank (which is why I have a relatively tough time getting to sleep), and seems to be trying to unravel things I don't yet understand (and things I think I do). Unfortunately this is normally 90% unimportant information.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
I'm not sure I see the resemblance really (especially that wierd guy in the middle):
A few people have spoken to me about drinking these past few days. A few are surprised that I don't drink, but I think it's a bit more surprising just how far it's integrated into society now. The most common invitation you get is to go for a drink at a pub, bar, house or club. Sure there's dancing at the latter, but a large majority go to get wasted. I don't mind drinking really, though it's certainly not good for you, but I like people who have a bit more variation in what they want to do. I kind of like Bournemouth because it's not just going out to the same places, which is good (even though Bournemouth itself is pretty small and you have to travel outwards to get to a lot of stuff).
Later on today we're setting up Production Design on our shoot for this week. Since that's my job it'll probably be a busy (but fun) day. There's an obstacle course on the grounds too, so it's important to resist the urge for another tournament. But I may have to defend my crown if it kicks off.
A few people have spoken to me about drinking these past few days. A few are surprised that I don't drink, but I think it's a bit more surprising just how far it's integrated into society now. The most common invitation you get is to go for a drink at a pub, bar, house or club. Sure there's dancing at the latter, but a large majority go to get wasted. I don't mind drinking really, though it's certainly not good for you, but I like people who have a bit more variation in what they want to do. I kind of like Bournemouth because it's not just going out to the same places, which is good (even though Bournemouth itself is pretty small and you have to travel outwards to get to a lot of stuff).
Later on today we're setting up Production Design on our shoot for this week. Since that's my job it'll probably be a busy (but fun) day. There's an obstacle course on the grounds too, so it's important to resist the urge for another tournament. But I may have to defend my crown if it kicks off.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
We went on a reccy to Sopley today, looking for the location of our next shoot. It's a special exercise on direction and production, so the script has multiple directors (each given a section). Right now I'm trying to learn my weakest areas, so I offered to do Production Design.
The other area I'm fairly weak in is sound, which is something I'm looking to address. The course looks at this specialism as far too much of an afterthought, when it's one of the main giveaways to a amateur/student film (along with story and script).
From my perspective sound comes very close in importance to picture. Cinematography isn't a common problem, there's no shortage of quality DOP's. Even with the complexity involved in lighting, it's not the beginning and end of the presentation.
My mind began to wander on the trip back, which was good as otherwise I'd have been focused on the fact that the technician driving was probably going to kill everyone on the bus (we stalled more times than I can remember). Our resident sound designer nodded off on my shoulder and got me thinking about dreams.
I remember a fair few dreams where they seem to have given some insight on what's coming up in my life. I've never looked at them as a reliable medium for foresight or anything, but found it interesting how that part of my subconscious comes through. Really though, a lot of the past of late has felt very much like a dream I hadn't woke up from.
My head tends to work through a lot of analysis quite a lot, which is useful for what I do now. One of the things that I've needed to do of late is to write a script with some more serious themes. In the past I've preferred to do things with comedy, but it's interesting to branch out and see what you can do.
With a lot of seemingly complex issues people deal with (in relationships for example), a lot of the reasoning is fairly simple. One of the toughest things to write is create an engaging and interesting relationship for the screen. Romantic or not, the way two characters interact can move around for the most subtle things. In some aspects love and relationships are very complex and in others very simple.
Anyway that's a potentially lengthy tangent, I'll just finish by putting a small shout out to Li and her post-bloody jaw. Hang in there champ!
The other area I'm fairly weak in is sound, which is something I'm looking to address. The course looks at this specialism as far too much of an afterthought, when it's one of the main giveaways to a amateur/student film (along with story and script).
From my perspective sound comes very close in importance to picture. Cinematography isn't a common problem, there's no shortage of quality DOP's. Even with the complexity involved in lighting, it's not the beginning and end of the presentation.
My mind began to wander on the trip back, which was good as otherwise I'd have been focused on the fact that the technician driving was probably going to kill everyone on the bus (we stalled more times than I can remember). Our resident sound designer nodded off on my shoulder and got me thinking about dreams.
I remember a fair few dreams where they seem to have given some insight on what's coming up in my life. I've never looked at them as a reliable medium for foresight or anything, but found it interesting how that part of my subconscious comes through. Really though, a lot of the past of late has felt very much like a dream I hadn't woke up from.
My head tends to work through a lot of analysis quite a lot, which is useful for what I do now. One of the things that I've needed to do of late is to write a script with some more serious themes. In the past I've preferred to do things with comedy, but it's interesting to branch out and see what you can do.
With a lot of seemingly complex issues people deal with (in relationships for example), a lot of the reasoning is fairly simple. One of the toughest things to write is create an engaging and interesting relationship for the screen. Romantic or not, the way two characters interact can move around for the most subtle things. In some aspects love and relationships are very complex and in others very simple.
Anyway that's a potentially lengthy tangent, I'll just finish by putting a small shout out to Li and her post-bloody jaw. Hang in there champ!
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Swimming
Floating in the water, I was enjoying things calming down and chilling out a bit. My mind then wandered to a previous tale of woe, horror and trauma. Not an unusual Friday, but still.
George was like the brother I'd never had, we had been good friends since primary school. It was a beautiful summer's day when we decided to go to the local swimming pool. Our parents gave us the nod to remember not to munch down anything an hour before going in, and remember to keep our locker keys safe. We cheerfully nodded and went on our way.
I changed pretty quickly and then ran and dived in the pool, getting a warning from the lifeguard not to go faster than walking. I nodded apologetically and waited for George to come out. He stepped out a few minutes later, finishing up a cracker. He swiftly made his way towards the pool. Time seemed to grind to a halt.
"GEORGE! NO!" I screamed at the top of my voice. He seemed to notice but was just making his way over faster now. I tried desperately to get to him first, trying to tear through the water with my arms and legs.
He grinned and then jumped in, positioned to belly flop. My eyes wailed in horror as the second he touched the water his entire body reputured and fired out a massive explosion. The shockwave threw a massive wave and sent everyone in the pool (myself included) crashing into the sides.
I looked up at the smoking crater where the water was pooling into, draining from the tiled body of the place. He was gone...
But they say that type of stuff builds character, so maybe it was all for the best. Good luck in heaven buddy.
Floating in the water, I was enjoying things calming down and chilling out a bit. My mind then wandered to a previous tale of woe, horror and trauma. Not an unusual Friday, but still.
George was like the brother I'd never had, we had been good friends since primary school. It was a beautiful summer's day when we decided to go to the local swimming pool. Our parents gave us the nod to remember not to munch down anything an hour before going in, and remember to keep our locker keys safe. We cheerfully nodded and went on our way.
I changed pretty quickly and then ran and dived in the pool, getting a warning from the lifeguard not to go faster than walking. I nodded apologetically and waited for George to come out. He stepped out a few minutes later, finishing up a cracker. He swiftly made his way towards the pool. Time seemed to grind to a halt.
"GEORGE! NO!" I screamed at the top of my voice. He seemed to notice but was just making his way over faster now. I tried desperately to get to him first, trying to tear through the water with my arms and legs.
He grinned and then jumped in, positioned to belly flop. My eyes wailed in horror as the second he touched the water his entire body reputured and fired out a massive explosion. The shockwave threw a massive wave and sent everyone in the pool (myself included) crashing into the sides.
I looked up at the smoking crater where the water was pooling into, draining from the tiled body of the place. He was gone...
But they say that type of stuff builds character, so maybe it was all for the best. Good luck in heaven buddy.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
The Neverending Journey
After going into town and getting some food, the impulsive suggestion to go bowling came up. The walk wasn't all that efficient in getting there, but the weather was great and it was fun anyway (we found 'Recreation Road', which ended up being a big let down all things considered). Plus it was kind of like one of those road trip movies. You can't really have the vehicle version in England, because getting anywhere on the same island doesn't take more than hours. I also managed to accidently become associated with a new catchphrase, "I don't have a great feeling about this way..." and then immediately continuing on anyway. Not great considering I'm a Director, but it gives me a unique quality of some sort.
I gave Dani some advice with her shots ("Try throwing it a bit more to the left" after a gutterball on the right side, I thought it was a solid observation anyway) and she started getting strikes all the time. My own advice to myself was not to resist the awesome lack of grip on the bowling shoes and instead glide and soar into a perfect game. Well the ball went fast anyway, but the perfect game was somewhere beyond.
Also a new magic eye image, well done to everyone who found the pony on the last one. This one's easier, if you stare into the solid white you should very quickly see a brick:
After going into town and getting some food, the impulsive suggestion to go bowling came up. The walk wasn't all that efficient in getting there, but the weather was great and it was fun anyway (we found 'Recreation Road', which ended up being a big let down all things considered). Plus it was kind of like one of those road trip movies. You can't really have the vehicle version in England, because getting anywhere on the same island doesn't take more than hours. I also managed to accidently become associated with a new catchphrase, "I don't have a great feeling about this way..." and then immediately continuing on anyway. Not great considering I'm a Director, but it gives me a unique quality of some sort.
I gave Dani some advice with her shots ("Try throwing it a bit more to the left" after a gutterball on the right side, I thought it was a solid observation anyway) and she started getting strikes all the time. My own advice to myself was not to resist the awesome lack of grip on the bowling shoes and instead glide and soar into a perfect game. Well the ball went fast anyway, but the perfect game was somewhere beyond.
The Enemy:
Our Hero (Gutterballing):
I have an unnatural gift towards Air Hockey. I've probably only played it twice in a few years, but it's a dormant gift ready to fire out at any moment. The puck ended up flying off the table more than once, including soaring all the way into the bowling alley, out of the arcade. I'm not sure that was my fault, I was pretty mellow throughout.
Also a new magic eye image, well done to everyone who found the pony on the last one. This one's easier, if you stare into the solid white you should very quickly see a brick:
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Magic Eye
This is actually a magic eye image. If you stare into Gandolfini's eyes for about five minutes (may take more or less time, depending on the person), you should see something pretty special.
This is actually a magic eye image. If you stare into Gandolfini's eyes for about five minutes (may take more or less time, depending on the person), you should see something pretty special.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Eyes
Described as the 'windows of the soul' I wonder if you can really tell that much from a person from their eyes. I normally get a pretty good sense from them, but it could just be the mind imprinting that sense from more likely attributes. It's interesting that sometimes you feel like you could even hear someone's thoughts just from connecting a gaze.
Caught up with my work today so off out later on. Going to catch Hot Fuzz later on since it's supposed to be very funny (the trailer seemed pretty good, but then the last comedy trailer I'd seen before that was Epic Movie, not a tough act to follow).
I go to the beach a lot whenever I need to clear my head (I remember a notable Asian director, I think Takeshi Kitano but honestly I'm not really sure. He about spoke about how on scenes with someone visiting the sea, it presented a communication between them with the sea asking "How much have you really changed?"). Wednesday was good weather, supposed to be the same tomorrow.
Some photos below, I never really take any photos of myself when I'm out so that one's indoors. I'd nick one of me from my friends but it's more blog-esque to take the photo yourself.
Described as the 'windows of the soul' I wonder if you can really tell that much from a person from their eyes. I normally get a pretty good sense from them, but it could just be the mind imprinting that sense from more likely attributes. It's interesting that sometimes you feel like you could even hear someone's thoughts just from connecting a gaze.
Caught up with my work today so off out later on. Going to catch Hot Fuzz later on since it's supposed to be very funny (the trailer seemed pretty good, but then the last comedy trailer I'd seen before that was Epic Movie, not a tough act to follow).
I go to the beach a lot whenever I need to clear my head (I remember a notable Asian director, I think Takeshi Kitano but honestly I'm not really sure. He about spoke about how on scenes with someone visiting the sea, it presented a communication between them with the sea asking "How much have you really changed?"). Wednesday was good weather, supposed to be the same tomorrow.
Some photos below, I never really take any photos of myself when I'm out so that one's indoors. I'd nick one of me from my friends but it's more blog-esque to take the photo yourself.
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Editing Mash
English weather seemed odd enough before I moved to the coast, but it was actually pretty much like summer yesterday. Had the day off so I got the chance to enjoy it. Then today it utterly pours it down. The forecast was pretty slow on this, but I'm glad it eventually confirmed that the stuff coming down from the sky was rain.
Veronica complained to me that this blog has too much text, so here's a illustrated story about a kitten:
HOT KITTEN ACTION!
English weather seemed odd enough before I moved to the coast, but it was actually pretty much like summer yesterday. Had the day off so I got the chance to enjoy it. Then today it utterly pours it down. The forecast was pretty slow on this, but I'm glad it eventually confirmed that the stuff coming down from the sky was rain.
Veronica complained to me that this blog has too much text, so here's a illustrated story about a kitten:
HOT KITTEN ACTION!
Tanaka seems pretty happy to go action movie heavy with this editing assignment (we cut a fresh trailer, using whatever footage we want), it's going to be fun. Josh has made himself the man to beat though, using Ghostbusters and Die Hard to make a trailer. That sent a chill down my spine alright.
Monday, February 19, 2007
Back to Uni
Since it was the first day back after a week off, the entire University broke in to song and dance on the entrance. The choreography all came together and it certainly made the return a lot more cinematic and musical. One of the film students did backflip into a wall, but then that's part of the curse of being in our class. Sooner or later everyone in our group is due to get notably injured.
I'm countering the problem by doing dangerous things constantly, since it lowers the probability of me being surprised when my turn to get hurt comes round. I'm cleaning my ear canal with a 9mm as I type this.
I've come up with another script idea so I'm pretty happy with how things are ticking along. And the Editing rotation should be a breeze, plus I always enjoy working in the suites.
Since it was the first day back after a week off, the entire University broke in to song and dance on the entrance. The choreography all came together and it certainly made the return a lot more cinematic and musical. One of the film students did backflip into a wall, but then that's part of the curse of being in our class. Sooner or later everyone in our group is due to get notably injured.
I'm countering the problem by doing dangerous things constantly, since it lowers the probability of me being surprised when my turn to get hurt comes round. I'm cleaning my ear canal with a 9mm as I type this.
I've come up with another script idea so I'm pretty happy with how things are ticking along. And the Editing rotation should be a breeze, plus I always enjoy working in the suites.
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Bowling Legends
A bit earlier today I went out with my housemates and some visitors to a bowlplex on the other side of Bournemouth (there's one not too far up the road but apparently getting a lane on a Saturday involves a bit of a wait). I haven't gone ten pin bowling in longer than I can remember, so I knew I probably wouldn't do too well. Fortunately it's always more fun when there's some truely bad or dodgy shots.
After a couple of rounds of gutterballs in our lane (the half on the other lane seemed to have a bit more practice for the most part), we started hitting our stride. And I managed to come out on top with a pretty modest 120ish on the second game (the first game became a good chance to try out various bowling methods, none of which all that effective).
For some reason our lane stayed open and so we had a go with some lighter balls. I picked up the lightest one having seen it just been guttered and had a go myself. Unfortunately the grip holes were a bit too tight and it didn't disconnect until my hand was coming back up. It bounced over our closed lane to the left and hit a strike on the next one.
I have now, in my short bowling career, managed to not only bowl into the lane next along, but also into a lane second along. Fortunately in each case the group on the lane accepted my apology and found it just as funny.
I think I'll stick to the Wii Bowling for a while.
A bit earlier today I went out with my housemates and some visitors to a bowlplex on the other side of Bournemouth (there's one not too far up the road but apparently getting a lane on a Saturday involves a bit of a wait). I haven't gone ten pin bowling in longer than I can remember, so I knew I probably wouldn't do too well. Fortunately it's always more fun when there's some truely bad or dodgy shots.
After a couple of rounds of gutterballs in our lane (the half on the other lane seemed to have a bit more practice for the most part), we started hitting our stride. And I managed to come out on top with a pretty modest 120ish on the second game (the first game became a good chance to try out various bowling methods, none of which all that effective).
For some reason our lane stayed open and so we had a go with some lighter balls. I picked up the lightest one having seen it just been guttered and had a go myself. Unfortunately the grip holes were a bit too tight and it didn't disconnect until my hand was coming back up. It bounced over our closed lane to the left and hit a strike on the next one.
I have now, in my short bowling career, managed to not only bowl into the lane next along, but also into a lane second along. Fortunately in each case the group on the lane accepted my apology and found it just as funny.
I think I'll stick to the Wii Bowling for a while.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Great Train Adventure
Sometimes you just gotta follow the urge to travel. Staying in one place too long can get old, so I decided to hope on a train and get on my way. Due to recent price increases a cheap day return to the capital now costs sixteen thousand pounds and ninety five pence. It's definitely the best way to combat overcrowding, but like most passengers I got the heavily discounted 'roof ticket'.
Half way through the twenty hour journey, the train eased down on speed and I was able to release my grip and lie on my back. Looking up at the crystalline night sky I though of my beautiful girl, her glow and cheerful smile.
A few seconds later I was thrown from the train as my head collided with the concrete rim of a tunnel. My new exercise routine had paid off well and I quickly stood up and brushed myself off. Seems that the train was going through Motherwell, so I wasn't far from my next change. All the same I figured it might be easier to fly from this point on. But at the local air field the landing success rate didn't leave a good taste in my mouth (much like the inflight food).
Sometimes you just gotta follow the urge to travel. Staying in one place too long can get old, so I decided to hope on a train and get on my way. Due to recent price increases a cheap day return to the capital now costs sixteen thousand pounds and ninety five pence. It's definitely the best way to combat overcrowding, but like most passengers I got the heavily discounted 'roof ticket'.
Half way through the twenty hour journey, the train eased down on speed and I was able to release my grip and lie on my back. Looking up at the crystalline night sky I though of my beautiful girl, her glow and cheerful smile.
A few seconds later I was thrown from the train as my head collided with the concrete rim of a tunnel. My new exercise routine had paid off well and I quickly stood up and brushed myself off. Seems that the train was going through Motherwell, so I wasn't far from my next change. All the same I figured it might be easier to fly from this point on. But at the local air field the landing success rate didn't leave a good taste in my mouth (much like the inflight food).
Shortly after a rough landing (most of us bailed out just before touchdown at Heathrow), I decided that I really needed some food. Unfortunately it's a well known fact that London cuisine is drugged to stop local residences from realising how crappy the place is. None the less I grabbed a sandwich and went on my way.
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Holiday
Next week is an open break for the Film Production course, seems that we can still rent equipment but the lecturers aren't going to be there (which makes it kinda tricky to get an editing suite, but challenges are always fun). Right now I've got more energy than I know what to do with. I think it might be a combination of a steady sleep routine, better diet (comparatively I guess!) and regular exercise, probably more to the latter. When I used to do anything like that I'd always intermittently hit my body with a lot of work then rest up. Right now I'm kinda building it up to handle constant exercise with just basic stuff (eg. sit ups/push ups), but I'm getting random urges to go jogging. Problem being that it's been soaking out all weekend.
So the solution there is (and has been) just to keep busy. Also considered using some old matresses lying in the second front room as a 'punching wall', but that seems to just shake the whole house. Not surprising since the room their in apparently had the ceiling cave from an indoor football match before we moved in. Not sure how much of that is true but best not to tempt fate. It would force some weaving though as the plaster comes flying down, I just don't reckon Kirsty would be too pleased to suddenly drop through the floor along with her bed.
I feel a bit like just jumping on a train at the moment.
Ed Atlins cracks me up, he's hilarious. I haven't checked in to his work in over a year, just started watching a couple of the things he's helped out on.
http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/295727
http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/301597
Worth seeing the stuff he's animated too.
Next week is an open break for the Film Production course, seems that we can still rent equipment but the lecturers aren't going to be there (which makes it kinda tricky to get an editing suite, but challenges are always fun). Right now I've got more energy than I know what to do with. I think it might be a combination of a steady sleep routine, better diet (comparatively I guess!) and regular exercise, probably more to the latter. When I used to do anything like that I'd always intermittently hit my body with a lot of work then rest up. Right now I'm kinda building it up to handle constant exercise with just basic stuff (eg. sit ups/push ups), but I'm getting random urges to go jogging. Problem being that it's been soaking out all weekend.
So the solution there is (and has been) just to keep busy. Also considered using some old matresses lying in the second front room as a 'punching wall', but that seems to just shake the whole house. Not surprising since the room their in apparently had the ceiling cave from an indoor football match before we moved in. Not sure how much of that is true but best not to tempt fate. It would force some weaving though as the plaster comes flying down, I just don't reckon Kirsty would be too pleased to suddenly drop through the floor along with her bed.
I feel a bit like just jumping on a train at the moment.
Ed Atlins cracks me up, he's hilarious. I haven't checked in to his work in over a year, just started watching a couple of the things he's helped out on.
http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/295727
http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/301597
Worth seeing the stuff he's animated too.
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Magic Hour Part Two
Camera phones really don't cut it in low light. At smaller sizes these shots look alright though.
Camera phones really don't cut it in low light. At smaller sizes these shots look alright though.
Friday, February 02, 2007
Magic Hour
I'm doing a cinematography rotation at Uni right now, so there's been the long awaited induction into lighting. I've studied the effects you get at different times of the day but I've never actually taken any photos of magic hour that I could remember. That refers to the period you get after sunset. My camera phone doesn't do a great job at capturing the effect, but I figured I'd go see the beach around that time since I had an open evening.
I'm doing a cinematography rotation at Uni right now, so there's been the long awaited induction into lighting. I've studied the effects you get at different times of the day but I've never actually taken any photos of magic hour that I could remember. That refers to the period you get after sunset. My camera phone doesn't do a great job at capturing the effect, but I figured I'd go see the beach around that time since I had an open evening.
Monday, January 29, 2007
I'm so totally too uninspired to write a title here
Weekend was busy, I wanted to see Balboa Saturday night but since it was a group decision we went with 'The Last King of Scotland'. Pretty surprised that the BBFC gave it a 15 rating, but then it does warn of 'gruesome images'. The rest of the night was pretty free from gruesome imagery, which is always a plus.
Saw Rocky today and it was good. I always thought the first film was a bit overrated (the pacing's not great) and have really just looked an the entire series as just fun to watch ('cept number five), and in that sense this one didn't disappoint.
For the people who visit here from NF, Dre (Hans) put up a photo that is just... incredible. I can't stop messing around with it:
Weekend was busy, I wanted to see Balboa Saturday night but since it was a group decision we went with 'The Last King of Scotland'. Pretty surprised that the BBFC gave it a 15 rating, but then it does warn of 'gruesome images'. The rest of the night was pretty free from gruesome imagery, which is always a plus.
Saw Rocky today and it was good. I always thought the first film was a bit overrated (the pacing's not great) and have really just looked an the entire series as just fun to watch ('cept number five), and in that sense this one didn't disappoint.
For the people who visit here from NF, Dre (Hans) put up a photo that is just... incredible. I can't stop messing around with it:
Friday, January 26, 2007
Post Office Returns
My Nintendo Wii was due to be delivered yesterday, and I was fairly eager not to miss the delivery. However with general life and University in the way, I couldn't stay by the door every hour of the day. But I effectively did anyway, cancelling classes and sitting next to the door all hours of the night. My gaze was frozen through the empty letterbox, waiting like a hawk for the postal van to arrive. I sacrificed food, sleep and bathroom breaks to stay rooted to the spot with my eyes wide open.
Around 2pm in the afternoon I abruptly sneezed, I felt something bump against my head and tires screech off into the distance. My eyes had closed for a split second and looking in my lap, there was the dreaded missed delivery note. I kicked the door off its hinges and rushed onto the street, but the van was already gone.
After getting cleaned up while waiting for a taxi, I took the journey to the post office. I swiftly paid the fare and rushed in, hammering on the bell for attention. A sluggish elderly woman eventually stumbled towards the desk. "Hey grandma, you've got a package for me. Here's the note with the details."
She readjusted her dentures and seemed to focus on stopping her face from collapsing on itself. But she only weakly questioned what a package was. "Package, parcel, box, mail, post, whatever, you've got it here."
This seemed to only further confuse her and she began shaking her head with concern. "Wh...wha... what is it you... that you want to get... why are you... why are you asking me?"
My eyebrows shot into orbit (problematic, but they didn't take the rest of me with him), this woman was clearly unaware of where she was and what she was doing. I'd seen it before, after all I meet numerous University students everyday.
I began pondering what Schwarzenegger would do in this situation. I deepened my voice, "I'll be back."
Running outside I found that the taxi was still there and the cabbie talking on the phone a few metres away from it. I hoped it, keys ready in the ignition and slammed my foot down. I hit the clutch at first so the car didn't really go anywhere, but my rustiness quickly sidestepped, I then got it speeding towards the front doors of the post office. The collision was brutal, but in this case the building didn't actually seem to recieve much damage. The cab however, was buckled into the doors. I figured there must have been some structural improvements after the van smashing through the place a few weeks back.
I dragged myself out, bloodied and bruised, seeing the receptionist still staring off into space. Readying the power from a thousand sad movies, I unleashed the Hysterical Fist, tearing the bulletproof glass and counter in my way to pieces. The receptionist seemed have been embedded in the wall, but didn't seem too concerned. I ran through into the storage room out the back and rows after rows of pensioners, hobbling about aimlessly. Night of the nearly dead alright.
"You! I thought you might turn up!"
I swivelled round to see a middle aged man wearing a plain suit atop a balcony. He seemed to be holding something. Was it my package? It looked like the right shape. "Well I'm glad someone here is organised," I smiled.
"You ruined my life Sean! And now, I'm about to ruin yours..."
He drew a pistol, aiming it at the box. "JESUS NO!" I quickly grabbed the nearest elderly worker and hurled them full force at the maniac. The creaky body didn't contest well against the g-force, spreading out like a blanket of flesh, bones and uniform. The villain couldn't escape the attack, covered and knocked back through his office on the first floor.
I quickly used one of the other workers as a stepping stone to jump onto the balcony, there I found him tearing the wrinkly trap off. "Who are you crazy postal man?"
"I'm the boss of this branch, thanks to your ridiculous conquest to get your damned jacket back three weeks ago, I lost everything! My chances of promotion were lost, budgets were slashed thanks to the repairs and my staff replaced and sourced from a local home for treating dementia. And all because of you!"
"Well... I do feel partly to blame. But it's been a pretty cold month." With that he sprang up, my package still in hand and tackled me backwards off the balcony. We landed on a cart of letter bombs, tossed back into the air as the firey explosion tore through the building.
Spluttering, I wiped the debris from my eyes and reached out with my battered limbs to find my package, still in one piece. I didn't have any more strength left in me, I'd managed to get the parcel, but now I was going to die. As far as Catch-22's go it was pretty harsh.
Then I heard an angel's voice, it was Lien standing over me. I was so happy, trying to express my joy of seeing her. She nodded, smiled and motioned for me to shush. She crouched down beside me, I was going to make it. Then she stood up, my wallet in her hand and withdrew a wad of bills. "Thirty five big ones, well that'll do."
Then she was gone, and the flames overtook me.
Well I actually survived my using several workers to cover me, as everyone knows that pensioners are 50% asbestos.
My Nintendo Wii was due to be delivered yesterday, and I was fairly eager not to miss the delivery. However with general life and University in the way, I couldn't stay by the door every hour of the day. But I effectively did anyway, cancelling classes and sitting next to the door all hours of the night. My gaze was frozen through the empty letterbox, waiting like a hawk for the postal van to arrive. I sacrificed food, sleep and bathroom breaks to stay rooted to the spot with my eyes wide open.
Around 2pm in the afternoon I abruptly sneezed, I felt something bump against my head and tires screech off into the distance. My eyes had closed for a split second and looking in my lap, there was the dreaded missed delivery note. I kicked the door off its hinges and rushed onto the street, but the van was already gone.
After getting cleaned up while waiting for a taxi, I took the journey to the post office. I swiftly paid the fare and rushed in, hammering on the bell for attention. A sluggish elderly woman eventually stumbled towards the desk. "Hey grandma, you've got a package for me. Here's the note with the details."
She readjusted her dentures and seemed to focus on stopping her face from collapsing on itself. But she only weakly questioned what a package was. "Package, parcel, box, mail, post, whatever, you've got it here."
This seemed to only further confuse her and she began shaking her head with concern. "Wh...wha... what is it you... that you want to get... why are you... why are you asking me?"
My eyebrows shot into orbit (problematic, but they didn't take the rest of me with him), this woman was clearly unaware of where she was and what she was doing. I'd seen it before, after all I meet numerous University students everyday.
I began pondering what Schwarzenegger would do in this situation. I deepened my voice, "I'll be back."
Running outside I found that the taxi was still there and the cabbie talking on the phone a few metres away from it. I hoped it, keys ready in the ignition and slammed my foot down. I hit the clutch at first so the car didn't really go anywhere, but my rustiness quickly sidestepped, I then got it speeding towards the front doors of the post office. The collision was brutal, but in this case the building didn't actually seem to recieve much damage. The cab however, was buckled into the doors. I figured there must have been some structural improvements after the van smashing through the place a few weeks back.
I dragged myself out, bloodied and bruised, seeing the receptionist still staring off into space. Readying the power from a thousand sad movies, I unleashed the Hysterical Fist, tearing the bulletproof glass and counter in my way to pieces. The receptionist seemed have been embedded in the wall, but didn't seem too concerned. I ran through into the storage room out the back and rows after rows of pensioners, hobbling about aimlessly. Night of the nearly dead alright.
"You! I thought you might turn up!"
I swivelled round to see a middle aged man wearing a plain suit atop a balcony. He seemed to be holding something. Was it my package? It looked like the right shape. "Well I'm glad someone here is organised," I smiled.
"You ruined my life Sean! And now, I'm about to ruin yours..."
He drew a pistol, aiming it at the box. "JESUS NO!" I quickly grabbed the nearest elderly worker and hurled them full force at the maniac. The creaky body didn't contest well against the g-force, spreading out like a blanket of flesh, bones and uniform. The villain couldn't escape the attack, covered and knocked back through his office on the first floor.
I quickly used one of the other workers as a stepping stone to jump onto the balcony, there I found him tearing the wrinkly trap off. "Who are you crazy postal man?"
"I'm the boss of this branch, thanks to your ridiculous conquest to get your damned jacket back three weeks ago, I lost everything! My chances of promotion were lost, budgets were slashed thanks to the repairs and my staff replaced and sourced from a local home for treating dementia. And all because of you!"
"Well... I do feel partly to blame. But it's been a pretty cold month." With that he sprang up, my package still in hand and tackled me backwards off the balcony. We landed on a cart of letter bombs, tossed back into the air as the firey explosion tore through the building.
Spluttering, I wiped the debris from my eyes and reached out with my battered limbs to find my package, still in one piece. I didn't have any more strength left in me, I'd managed to get the parcel, but now I was going to die. As far as Catch-22's go it was pretty harsh.
Then I heard an angel's voice, it was Lien standing over me. I was so happy, trying to express my joy of seeing her. She nodded, smiled and motioned for me to shush. She crouched down beside me, I was going to make it. Then she stood up, my wallet in her hand and withdrew a wad of bills. "Thirty five big ones, well that'll do."
Then she was gone, and the flames overtook me.
Well I actually survived my using several workers to cover me, as everyone knows that pensioners are 50% asbestos.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
The Naked Truth
I'm not sure where the title on this entry is relevant, but then a lot of the ones I use aren't really. I've been a bit stressed this week, coursework due on Friday and I couldn't seem to focus. I managed to get it together though and finished it up last night and handed it in this afternoon.
One part of the essay involved psychology and human behaviour, so I've been reading a few books on it. Mostly extracts and I noticed some of the stuff Lien had mentioned about her A-Level. I've always found Psychology interesting but never really got round to studying it properly. I'm giving myself a little time to relax with the normal workload before it's time to dive in to making these independant projects.
Kinda disappointed that we missed out on the snow, it always brings back early memories of driving/spinning around the roads. For all the inconviences it sometimes brings it's fantastic to see the place blanketed in the stuff. Still once that first flake hits the ground, public transport effectively call it a day and most of the drivers around the country slam their beams onto the highest power (then again a good portion do that for a suspect looking cloud in the sky too).
I'm not sure where the title on this entry is relevant, but then a lot of the ones I use aren't really. I've been a bit stressed this week, coursework due on Friday and I couldn't seem to focus. I managed to get it together though and finished it up last night and handed it in this afternoon.
One part of the essay involved psychology and human behaviour, so I've been reading a few books on it. Mostly extracts and I noticed some of the stuff Lien had mentioned about her A-Level. I've always found Psychology interesting but never really got round to studying it properly. I'm giving myself a little time to relax with the normal workload before it's time to dive in to making these independant projects.
Kinda disappointed that we missed out on the snow, it always brings back early memories of driving/spinning around the roads. For all the inconviences it sometimes brings it's fantastic to see the place blanketed in the stuff. Still once that first flake hits the ground, public transport effectively call it a day and most of the drivers around the country slam their beams onto the highest power (then again a good portion do that for a suspect looking cloud in the sky too).
Monday, January 22, 2007
The Second Step
It's now 'part two' of the film course. We've finished the first units and are now moving into a more indepth course in each specialisation. The aim is to get us knowledgeable but also (and perhaps moreso) to help us figure out what we want our specialisations to be. I already know I'm a Director, but I'm interested to see the other areas. We're also split into three groups of around twenty, which is a big plus. I'm still making friends with people in our class, and while I know everyone the production groups we've been in haven't had much variety as yet. Dani actually kinda unnerved me today as she somehow knew my middle name. An explanation of stalking to me actually telling her being the answer as to why. It probably lies somewhere in the middle.
My head is fairly overworked with this surge in coursework, but by the end of the week it's all lapsed for a while at least. They'll have to be more work of course, and I'll probably have go along with Ciaron's suggestion of writing till the small hours of the morning to get the script and rewrites of the feature ready. It's not hard to get people fired up about it, the hard parts going to be the prep, but at least I'll have help with it.
Also adjusted my diet again ever so slightly, it seems the healthier it gets the more expensive it gets, but that's just how it goes much of the time. Also started exercising a bit again and ohmygod why is this now a livejournal? Well I'll be back next time with more wacky adventures in between looping Linkin Park wav's and complaints about how no one understands me and my black lipstick.
It's now 'part two' of the film course. We've finished the first units and are now moving into a more indepth course in each specialisation. The aim is to get us knowledgeable but also (and perhaps moreso) to help us figure out what we want our specialisations to be. I already know I'm a Director, but I'm interested to see the other areas. We're also split into three groups of around twenty, which is a big plus. I'm still making friends with people in our class, and while I know everyone the production groups we've been in haven't had much variety as yet. Dani actually kinda unnerved me today as she somehow knew my middle name. An explanation of stalking to me actually telling her being the answer as to why. It probably lies somewhere in the middle.
My head is fairly overworked with this surge in coursework, but by the end of the week it's all lapsed for a while at least. They'll have to be more work of course, and I'll probably have go along with Ciaron's suggestion of writing till the small hours of the morning to get the script and rewrites of the feature ready. It's not hard to get people fired up about it, the hard parts going to be the prep, but at least I'll have help with it.
Also adjusted my diet again ever so slightly, it seems the healthier it gets the more expensive it gets, but that's just how it goes much of the time. Also started exercising a bit again and ohmygod why is this now a livejournal? Well I'll be back next time with more wacky adventures in between looping Linkin Park wav's and complaints about how no one understands me and my black lipstick.
Nothing worth having in this world comes easily
Good food aside (but even that requires some travel), it certainly is a true statement. But there's some real gratification to the fact that you're earning what you get. On the plus side it's also often fairly fun to get there.
Also the Scrubs musical was great. The janitor naturally taking top spot, "...until that mousse-haired little nuisance... is... no... mooore..."
Good food aside (but even that requires some travel), it certainly is a true statement. But there's some real gratification to the fact that you're earning what you get. On the plus side it's also often fairly fun to get there.
Also the Scrubs musical was great. The janitor naturally taking top spot, "...until that mousse-haired little nuisance... is... no... mooore..."
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Dreams Beyond a Dumpster
So I as you may (or may not recall) I was left naked, soaked, penniless and freezing in a dumpster by my mysterious arch nemesis a few weeks back. How did I return to become a productive member of society again? Well I mugged an old woman and stole her identity. I'm very gradually easing off the grey wig, classical feminine clothes and tea party social circles, but there's still a way to go yet. At least I would have probably still been adjusting had the following not happened a week or so back:
Apparently they don't make buses like they used to and the one I threw her infront of didn't do the job. Stepping out my door one day I was greeted with a female, elderly version of my past self. I was barely able to bring my hand to stroke my chin inquisitively in time before my skull was repeatedly slammed against the wall. She knew my one weakness alright.
Realising that my kryptonite of suffering blunt force trauma was being exploited I broke her grip and somersaulted to a safe distance. This wasn't going to be a fair fight as things stood. The clothes I was wearing were beyond constrictive, that acrobatic stunt having dislocated most of my joints. But you couldn't argue with the quality of the stitching and fabric, not even a single tear.
But inevitably there was only one way this whole saga would be resolved and once again I found myself stepping into the boxing ring some two months later to face this old battleaxe one on one in a fair fight. The crowd had no jeers today and the roar of cheers was deafening. My preparation had been long and brutal, but I'd somehow managed to lose the weight to get into my old boxing shorts. Had I actually used this time for geniune boxing training I'm sure I wouldn't have been twenty to one to lose.
After several ground shaking exchanges in the opening minutes, things were looking grim. Seeing how she appeared to have an additional two hundred pounds of muscle since the last time I'd seen her, I considered that I really should have insisted on mandatory drug tests. As my last intact rib suffered the same fate as the shattered others, the bell for the end of Round Nine rang.
Unable to see through the sweat and blood rolling down my face I accidently spat my rinse into the face of my coach. I was KO'ed in the interval by a punch that didn't even belong to my opponent.
Happily we both returned to our previous identities and she took the WBA Heavyweight Title soon afterwards. If this entire experience has taught me anything, it's that I should have beaten her with my corner's stool at the beginning of Round Two. And possibly some life lessons about being yourself and all that other rubbish.
So I as you may (or may not recall) I was left naked, soaked, penniless and freezing in a dumpster by my mysterious arch nemesis a few weeks back. How did I return to become a productive member of society again? Well I mugged an old woman and stole her identity. I'm very gradually easing off the grey wig, classical feminine clothes and tea party social circles, but there's still a way to go yet. At least I would have probably still been adjusting had the following not happened a week or so back:
Apparently they don't make buses like they used to and the one I threw her infront of didn't do the job. Stepping out my door one day I was greeted with a female, elderly version of my past self. I was barely able to bring my hand to stroke my chin inquisitively in time before my skull was repeatedly slammed against the wall. She knew my one weakness alright.
Realising that my kryptonite of suffering blunt force trauma was being exploited I broke her grip and somersaulted to a safe distance. This wasn't going to be a fair fight as things stood. The clothes I was wearing were beyond constrictive, that acrobatic stunt having dislocated most of my joints. But you couldn't argue with the quality of the stitching and fabric, not even a single tear.
But inevitably there was only one way this whole saga would be resolved and once again I found myself stepping into the boxing ring some two months later to face this old battleaxe one on one in a fair fight. The crowd had no jeers today and the roar of cheers was deafening. My preparation had been long and brutal, but I'd somehow managed to lose the weight to get into my old boxing shorts. Had I actually used this time for geniune boxing training I'm sure I wouldn't have been twenty to one to lose.
After several ground shaking exchanges in the opening minutes, things were looking grim. Seeing how she appeared to have an additional two hundred pounds of muscle since the last time I'd seen her, I considered that I really should have insisted on mandatory drug tests. As my last intact rib suffered the same fate as the shattered others, the bell for the end of Round Nine rang.
Unable to see through the sweat and blood rolling down my face I accidently spat my rinse into the face of my coach. I was KO'ed in the interval by a punch that didn't even belong to my opponent.
Happily we both returned to our previous identities and she took the WBA Heavyweight Title soon afterwards. If this entire experience has taught me anything, it's that I should have beaten her with my corner's stool at the beginning of Round Two. And possibly some life lessons about being yourself and all that other rubbish.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
End of Editing
Somehow I managed to get involved with a surprisingly high number of people's first coursework hand-in, and for the most part it was relating to editing the showreel. I had a few awkward moments myself, but mainly just because the Avid systems (well more precisely the network and media storage behind it) would throw up 'Media Offline' on certain segments if the cut wasn't finished in one sitting. Also the tape deck played up and the computer threw up random tantrums.
So I just asked to be in the Media Composer suite for my second booking, and that made things a lot calmer. In the normal Editing room there's about ten computers and not much space. The Composers are two rooms with one computer system in each, along with proper air conditioning, sound system and other perks.
Media Composer Suite One
Somehow I managed to get involved with a surprisingly high number of people's first coursework hand-in, and for the most part it was relating to editing the showreel. I had a few awkward moments myself, but mainly just because the Avid systems (well more precisely the network and media storage behind it) would throw up 'Media Offline' on certain segments if the cut wasn't finished in one sitting. Also the tape deck played up and the computer threw up random tantrums.
So I just asked to be in the Media Composer suite for my second booking, and that made things a lot calmer. In the normal Editing room there's about ten computers and not much space. The Composers are two rooms with one computer system in each, along with proper air conditioning, sound system and other perks.
Media Composer Suite One
Media Composer Suite Two
It wasn't really hard work, as despite the tricky moments I'm already several times more competent with editing on professional systems and I got to spend most of the day talking to the people who came in to visit me (and when I came in to visit them). Plus I've been getting to know the lecturers better which is always a positive step.
Also ordered a Nintendo Wii earlier from Woolworths. The second I logged on to this new stockcheck site, there were there in stock. Unfortunately an error (which I'm sure was on their part) meant that it's set for delivery to my billing/home address in Oxford, and they are unable to change it without cancelling and me reordering (which I can't do as the stock wouldn't be there). I've spoken to them more about it and one of the girls on staff is going to try and get it adjusted but really I'll have to roll with the punches on this one. The site I used was this one:
http://www.macro.macnjode.com/wii.php
I recommend it if you're looking for one as it checks all the main stockists every sixty seconds and then brings up a message on screen if one has stock. I was just fortunate to log onto it during the ten minute period Woolworths had them.
Also ordered a Nintendo Wii earlier from Woolworths. The second I logged on to this new stockcheck site, there were there in stock. Unfortunately an error (which I'm sure was on their part) meant that it's set for delivery to my billing/home address in Oxford, and they are unable to change it without cancelling and me reordering (which I can't do as the stock wouldn't be there). I've spoken to them more about it and one of the girls on staff is going to try and get it adjusted but really I'll have to roll with the punches on this one. The site I used was this one:
http://www.macro.macnjode.com/wii.php
I recommend it if you're looking for one as it checks all the main stockists every sixty seconds and then brings up a message on screen if one has stock. I was just fortunate to log onto it during the ten minute period Woolworths had them.
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Kamikaze Kama Sutra
So I've always wondered how to spice things up in the bedroom. By taking this existing text and making it a bit more reckless I think it could really go places. Maybe heightening up missionary by jumping out of a plane without a parachute, boinking among the clouds.
So I've always wondered how to spice things up in the bedroom. By taking this existing text and making it a bit more reckless I think it could really go places. Maybe heightening up missionary by jumping out of a plane without a parachute, boinking among the clouds.
Beach Construction
Out on Saturday we were somewhat concerned to discover that the beach had been taken over by a group of international terrorists/giant pipes. Apparently sand is being brought over to make the beach larger as it keeps shrinking every year. I'm not energetic enough to really argue with that so it sounds alright to me. Plus with obesity continuing to rise you have to consider that space will be a factor come summer.
Out on Saturday we were somewhat concerned to discover that the beach had been taken over by a group of international terrorists/giant pipes. Apparently sand is being brought over to make the beach larger as it keeps shrinking every year. I'm not energetic enough to really argue with that so it sounds alright to me. Plus with obesity continuing to rise you have to consider that space will be a factor come summer.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
When Film Production Goes Wrong
Out of a crew of five people, two aren't coming and one is around two hours late. The other crew member was unable to get any actors for the shoot and so the planned long take is effectively impossible. Plus getting the neccessary props was pretty unlikely, but at that point it was a done and dusted plan. So we joined up with another short handed group and started on our way to make the best of a bad situation. We would do a short single take of a man walking against torrential wind and getting increasing more difficult obstacles flying into his path (ranging from paper cup to human being). Armed with a camera, a wheelchair, two 'borrowed' chairs, retired electrical equipment, a traffic cone, a trolley, plastic cups, various and a pocket full of dreams we set off on our way.
The weather decided that the wind could use some torrential rain and soon enough it piled it down. Concerned about the camera (since we were all already soaked) we waited for a break and went on. No photos of the actual stormy bit as at that point keeping the equipment safe was important. Plus my phone would've flown out my hand anyway. Got a few interesting ones afterwards between getting things sorted out. Probably is when you're moving around fast most of them get blurred!
It was a lot of fun and even if none of us could feel our hands afterwards it was very much worth it. I really enjoyed our group as it felt very collaborative, and we never really needed anyone to take over the reigns from all the others. Probably the most relaxing one yet despite the weather and creative stunts!
Out of a crew of five people, two aren't coming and one is around two hours late. The other crew member was unable to get any actors for the shoot and so the planned long take is effectively impossible. Plus getting the neccessary props was pretty unlikely, but at that point it was a done and dusted plan. So we joined up with another short handed group and started on our way to make the best of a bad situation. We would do a short single take of a man walking against torrential wind and getting increasing more difficult obstacles flying into his path (ranging from paper cup to human being). Armed with a camera, a wheelchair, two 'borrowed' chairs, retired electrical equipment, a traffic cone, a trolley, plastic cups, various and a pocket full of dreams we set off on our way.
The weather decided that the wind could use some torrential rain and soon enough it piled it down. Concerned about the camera (since we were all already soaked) we waited for a break and went on. No photos of the actual stormy bit as at that point keeping the equipment safe was important. Plus my phone would've flown out my hand anyway. Got a few interesting ones afterwards between getting things sorted out. Probably is when you're moving around fast most of them get blurred!
It was a lot of fun and even if none of us could feel our hands afterwards it was very much worth it. I really enjoyed our group as it felt very collaborative, and we never really needed anyone to take over the reigns from all the others. Probably the most relaxing one yet despite the weather and creative stunts!
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
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- Swimming Floating in the water, I was enjoying th...
- The Neverending Journey After going into town and...
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