Daily rambles, stumbles and travels

Saturday 31 January 2009

What is this?

While scribbling up some portfolio schtuff to send off to a games company, I had my lastfm account running in the backdrop; I added Tori Amos on there, like, forever ago, but never sat and listening to much of her songs until just now, when "Precious Things" was played.
This song sounded more complete, musically than previous songs that have passed my ears. So, I give you the lyrics. If you can get hold of the song, do so and give it a holla.


"So I ran faster
But it caught me here
Yes my loyalties turned
Like my ankle
In the seventh grade
Running after billy
Running after the rain

These precious things
Let them bleed
Let them wash away
These precious things
Let them break their hold over me

He said youre really an ugly girl
But I like the way you play
And I died
But I thanked him
Can you believe that
Sick sick
Holding on to his picture
Dressing up every day
I wanna smash the faces
Of those beautiful boys
Those christian boys
So you can make me cum
That doesnt make you jesus

These precious things
Let them bleed
Let them wash away
These precious things
Let them break their hold over me

I remember
Yes in my peach party dress
No one dared
No one cared
To tell me where the pretty girls are
Those demigods
With their nine-inch nails and little fascist panties tucked inside the heart of every nice girl

These precious things
Let them bleed
Let them wash away
These precious things
Let them break
Let them wash away
These these precious things
Let them bleed now
Let them wash away
These these precious things
Let them break their hold over me

Precious ...
Precious ..."

Friday 30 January 2009

Entertainment for your EYES

Whilst rummaging for jobs on the internets, I give to you FOOTAGE.






Thursday 29 January 2009

King of My Castle

The title has nothing to do with this entry, I am simply listening to "King of My Castle" by Wamdue project.

So, I am guinea pig and gerbil sitting! Which is turning out be easier than I thought ^_^ It's surprising how rodents are so happy in their cages, eating, rearranging hey, and making little meeping noises now and then. They even enjoy a little cuddle. Unfortunately the gerbils are squirmy and I'm too afraid I might drop them, but they enjoy getting fed sesame seeds by hand, which I of course enjoy watching them nibble the seed case open with their tiny teeth, to eat it's tasty innards.

Here's me with Boglin, the chubbier, more huggable of the two guinea pigs.
Photobucket

Heading out to see 'Valkyrie' with my sis and Pa tomorrow, I'm hoping for schweet results as most factual stories revolving around Hitler's Reign draws me in, thank my Pa for that one. No, this doesn't make me a Nazi, I am if anything one of the most open minded of people. I think I find myself drawn in just by how Hitler's Empire was such a strong and what seemed at the time, indestructible force and it came down with so much force. It's always appealing to me when films/documentaries are made on the workings of it all. One past film that I'd recommend is 'Downfall', dang that was good.

While we're at it, I also viewed 'The Wrestler' recently and almost felt like standing and applauding when the credits rolled. I really enjoyed this movie, finally, a wrestling flick that isn't about the prankster side of the sports entertainment industry. I'm hoping after the release, people will stop their automated reply of "Isn't wrestling fake?" whenever I mention the subject. I adored that the film used factual stories from past and present wrestlers (Anyone who has read Mick Foley's biography "Have a Nice Day" will notice the many similarities to some of the tales he told throughout his career).
Yes, I maybe biased, but who cares. I have been waiting for a film to expose the seedy underworld of wrestling for sometime now, revealing how expandable wrestlers are within the industry. How they spend their lives dedicated to a sport that offers them so much and then simply dumps them at the side of the road to be forgotten, beaten and broken.

***Flashback***

This reminds me a wrestling event at a theatre near me about two years ago, where I heard the infamous legendary Jake the Snake Roberts was performing. This was the most depressing show I have ever witnessed. He could barely lift a leg or even throw a punch, there was even an instance where he was on the side of the ring sitting catching his breath. Whilst this man who once graced WWF's top roster wheezed and gasped, I shook my head and thought "How can this happen?". Who is to blame - The wrestler? The manager? Or even the fickle fans?

Either way I've rambled on enough for tonight. I now want to view some badd ass footage from the WWF Attitude Era.

Wednesday 28 January 2009

Fear(s) of the Dark, but not including Katsu

What do I love? Checking out random animation showings at local cinemas that you book, forget, remember and then cheer.

This was brought on by viewing 'Fear(s) of the Dark' at Broadway cinema, which I read about, raised an eyebrow, booked the tickets and enjoyed immensely. I think the enjoyment was heightened by the fact it was entirely in French and subtitled, with an excellent combination of 3D meets hella awesome 2D mation. I was very glad to watch something that actually inspired me to work on a few animation skits; I've envisioned bits here and there of the motion I want to capture, but I'm not sure character can be placed in that movement - if that makes sense?
Speaking of which, I have applied for a few character design and animation jobs nearby, sending off a CD with my showreel (My first one, which is hopefully up to a worthy standard) and a wad of my concept art drawings to get some "Oooos and Aaaas" going, hopefully not the opposite "What is this?!" *Launches drawings into open fireplace*

Ok, rewind, back to the previous topic.

After such an awesome viewing session, I of course found myself feeling ravenous from the delicious animation. SO, time to try a new eats. My sibling and I stumbled into a Japanese restaurant not too far from the cinema, feeling myself shocked and deliriously over joyed by the fact they served many of my favourite dishes I ate in Tokyo ^_^ CHICKEN KATSU SERVED ON A BED OF RICE. With a side of miso soup. A simple delight that I have missed SO MUCH from the land of the glowing.

Exhibit A:
Photobucket
(No rice underneath, but separately in a mini bowl :) )

I have just realised I haven't uploaded any photos from Tokyo up here, WTF? K, that'll be another journal topic.

With just one sip of the Miso, my eyes watered with memories of Tokyo, not because it was, like, hot or anything. I felt so frakkin' sentimental and what was worse, food was making me feel this way (Haha! Obese kiddy memories). My tummy was VERY happy after this meal. What was even more awesome, was the price. I managed to eat a very filling meal of Miso, Katsu Chicken with rice and veggiebles for under £10. This is in comparison with 'YO! Sushi' where at my last visit I had an unsatisfying one set of eel sushi with the tasty battered pumpkin slices, totalling to £9. Where will I turn to for my Japanese cuisine fix in the future? HMMMMMM. 'Yo! Sushi', you just lost a customer.

What did I achieve from this? I need to return to Japan. Next stop, Kyoto please. Until I can AFFORD that, Scotland Fire Festival - Iceland - Disneyland Paris.

Oh! fashion news, I bought some BLACK PVC TROUSERS! Thankyou to my birthday money + commission money. This along with the blue facepaint I have also purchased may result in some vanity photoshoot in the future.

And last, but not least, Hawt new phrase:
Photobucket
SWEATER MUFFINS
Use it in your daily vocab children.

Good night.

Saturday 24 January 2009

This evening I will mostly be...

...celebrating my Post Grad achievement by becoming seduced by Maynard James Keenans voice. His voice is delicious. This is because I have just found his solo project band known as Puscifer, another album I must purchase....

Oh, I forgot to update you with some youtube vids:

The Mortarboard is Off

Graduation is over.

I have a BA Hons in Illustration for Animation.

Man, what can I say?

Another step into the unknown and uncertainty of life, another step into like total adulthoodness.

The wake-up call was alot earlier than I would've preferred (4am) and running on nothing more than a bowl of cereal and cup 'o' tea I was ready to get gradumacated. I looked like a tent, but for once in my life I didn't care, because the gown that made me look so hideous was actually worth something. Photos were taken in bad lighting and in professional lighting, grabbing friends in the hussle and bussle to get a "YEAH WE GRADUATED" pose, clinking mortarboards.
The ceremony was surprisingly entertaining, since there is something inside me that enjoys attending big ol' over the top gatherings, I was even sitting on the second row, directly behind behind THE MAYOR. I was also at shoe height, so I spent most of my time analysing everyones footwear, some people have seriously red shiny shoes. Hey, I even shed a tear for those I knew when they walked over the stage to give a hearty hand shake on their success, I'm such a female.
Yes, my family did argue. Yes, I did leave my certificate within the bathroom of the graduation hall, with a card from my Ma also wedged within it. BUT I generally shrugged it off, since my certificate was handed in at the lost and found and my family glue back together quicker than melted cheese. Having a family group hug as my Pops and Ma whispered "I'm proud of you" in my ear, making my female eyes well up for the eightieth time in the day.
I then had the most satisfying nap EVER until about 6pm, followed by a bacon sandwich and pancakes with maple syrup for afterwards.

I wish I had something more profound to say than

It. Is. Over.

The teachings didn't amount to much during my course, but throughout the time spent I have learnt a few lessons about others and myself. Now I'm going to apply for jobs and draw the hell out of everything.

Sketchy-poo!

Photobucket

I am now listening to Andrew W.K. LOUD.

Wednesday 7 January 2009

2009, when, where, how?

Howdy to the new year! I'm not one to celebrate welcoming the new Year, mainly because a majority of folk enjoy spending it consuming alcohol which ya know, is hella boring. So, I spend my times relaxing and then celebrate the New Year with the more fun celebrations of Chinese New Year, which involves awesome fireworks ^_^

Anyhoo, I thought I'd do my best for a summary and review of how 2008 went down.


University Finale:
Can I say, FINALLY! After so many years in education I have finally earned my keep, whether my degree is worth anything, I will find out. I am finally glad to be released from an animation course which taught me little about the world of which I want to head into and lead to myself merely being self taught. My recommendation, DO NOT ATTEND THE UNIVERSITY OF DERBY. Besides this, I loved the time I spent during, as I got to meet amazing people and experience some awesome schtuff and for that I am thankful and will definitely miss.

Holidays -
Tokyo: Two awesome weeks spent experiencing a 'Lost in Translation' holiday, totally unforgettable and one place I have vowed to return to!
New York: A long weekend crammed packed adventure in the big city, overwhelmed with giant buildings and so many recognisable sights; this time with a very 'Home Alone' feel to things.

Films -
'Dark Knight': What can I say that can justify this movie, with all the right 'Batman Animated' themes I have been expecting for sometime now, with a dark menacing touch that was positively delicious, this film was definitely the movie highlight of the year. Especially when viewed while dressed as Catwoman!
'Hellboy 2': So much creative effort went into this movie it's hard not to love it, I was very surprised at where the story took you throughout, but unfortunately I wasn't fond of the ending on this one folks, I won't reveal it for anyone who wishes to view the film, but I must admit that was stupid character move. Oh, I
Iron Man: If you want comic adaptation personified, this movie will give you the testosterone comic book geek injection you've been looking for.
'Cloverfield': An excellent monster destroys the city flick and needs to be viewed on a cinema screen/in darkness to get a full effect. But, unfortunately let down by a few soppy wordings in the end.
'The Happening': Such a nerving film to watch, that is all.
'Kung Fu Panda': After being burdened with the 'Shrek' trilogy this was a BIG surprise from 'Dreamworks'. Beautiful background artistry and a lovable cast of characters (Especially the Furious Five:heart: ), this is worth a viewing for any animation fan.
'Enchanted': A LONG awaited release from Disney, featuring their first 2D animated sequence since 'Bambi 2' I jittered off my seat when the opening sequence began! very entertaining, with catchy songs (trust Disney for this one!) and awesome casting.

Started Driving -
BEEP BEEP BEEP. I haven't passed my test yet, but we'll see what this year brings.

TV Shows/Animations -
Avatar - The Last Airbender: The finale came and went, with some of the most spectacular animation I've seen for a long while in an animated series. Imaginative, creative and a very original take on a land themed with the four elements. This entire three seasoned series MUST BE WATCHED.
Battlestar Gallactica: When first hearing about this show I had a very neutral viewpoint of what all the hype was about, but when viewing series one, I couldn't stop! Addictive to watch, I'm now into the beginnings of series three (No spoilers please!)
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: How did I overlook this show when it originally aired? Dismissed because of the silly fandom it received, but worth watching for anyone interested in Cryptzoology and the Occults (Or anyone who enjoys excellent plot). Just finished season three, must see more!
Lucky Star: A very adorable and hilarious anime I knew threw it's cute animated opening sequence, but fell in love to it's very Azu Manga Dioh likeness. KAWAII!
Gurren Lagann: Woah. I mean, WOAH. Full of style, substance and extremely awesome battle sequences, this anime blew my mind with sheer WOOOAAAH.

Musical Experiences -
Bjork: This woman is a Goddess and must be seen live!
Bloodhound Gang: Terrible live, but an enjoyable night none-the-less as I got to meet Evil Jared Hasselhoff. He, like smooched me and left me "WTFed?!"
Coheed and Cambria. Opening act, Fightstar: Rocking and hella rocking! I actually became a fan of Fightstar through this performance.

Adventures -
Creswell Craggs: An awesome view to be seen, very scenic and schweet ancient cavey times! But disappointing on the cave painting half, barely even a scribble on the cave walls.
Sherwood Forest: Delicious natural heritage! Funtimes skipping and frolicking with chumlings through the woods.

Zoos -
Bristol Zoo: Always an enjoyable visit, highlights include red pandas, walk through lemur enclosure, okapis, tapirs and two toed sloth. RIP baby Gerry the sloth :heart:
Central Park Zoo: An adorable zoo, that features one of the best red panda enclosures I've seen so far! Tamanduas, polar bears, and seals.
London Zoo: GIANT ANTEATERS! Excellent view of these snuffly creatures! Also to be seen, tigers, lions and otters.
Ueno Zoo: Once again GIANT ANTEATERS! up close and personal this time, I could actually here him sniffing ^_^ Also, lions, tigers, elephants, tapirs and a quick glimpse at Mr red panda; who was hiding amongst the greenery.
White Post Farm: Family fun day out! You get to handle chicks, guinea pigs and view (And feed) all kinds of barnyard animals, even meerkats and wallabies.

Zombie March/Woman in Black: Even though I was struck with an odd illness that pretty much crippled me for the the Hallow's Eve weekend, I managed to attend a record breaking zombie march and view the edge-of-your-seat play, Woman in Black. It has actually been sometime since I attended the theatre, so to see an act that was so nerve racking was a treat! Recommended to anyone who enjoys a good theatrical scare.

Birmingham Comic Con: Dressed as Rorschach from 'Watchmen' while receiving a sketch from the talented 'Fables' illustrator, Mark Buckingham, how could this not have been an awesome day? :D

Comics/Books -
X-Men Endangered Species: Suited perfectly for me, as the story consists of Beast attempting to find a cure for all mutants from loosing their mutant abilities. Beasty tastic!
I Am Legend: I could not put this one down. A short horror/sci-fi worth reading! Forget the film adaptation, it completely disregards the main factors of the book completely.


World of Warcraft: Got an epic mount and reached level 60, who go me!

Now lets see what 2009 has to hold, I'm not really sure what to expect to be honest, bring it on.