Karate Kid Legends - A Wax Off Review

Karate Kid Legends hosts a great cast but it's premise under delivers.

Ben has a bright future ahead, he was fantastic. Ralph felt like he came along for the quick paycheck during cobra Kai filming. Jackie Chan's, Han character felt so different from his last appearance in Smiths Karate Kid reboot. It would have been nice to have acknowledged Jayden Smiths character in some way.

This film is very much a homage to the first film yet sped up 5 times.

There's a part of the film our protagonist has a side quest and to train a former Boxer to get better and fight again and he does a good job and it was a different yet touching story, however once this arc is done we get back to speeding up the story of the next Karate Kid or rather Kung Fu kid since Mr Han teaches Kung Fu more than Karate ala Miyagi/Daniel-San.

They needed to make this film a 2 hour bout to build up more of the characters and story. Have the tournament play out in full not let's just cut to the end of the tournament where the bully fights our guy and that's it.

After credits scene was fantastic and fun. Hopefully this leads to more in future. 

As it stands now with this film coming off the back of the massive success of Cobra Kai, KKL is poor in quality and is one of the weakest in the long running series.

3 wax ons out of 5 Daniel-san!

Joker Folie A Deux Review

The World Is A Stage. 

Joker folie a duex aka Joker: Madness For Two, it really should have been titled "

Joker 2: The Jokes On You".

5 years ago we were gifted the highest grossing R rated film in cinema history which was based upon a DC Comics character with a brand-new spin on things but also a film documenting mental health and the struggles of one with such disorders. It was a social study, a character study. It's absolutely amazing and gripping and ended with a smile.

Although we were told "Arthur is not THE JOKER" he is the predecessor, a mentally sick man who has a bad day and things get tipped on their head and the man who's seen as a joke gets dubbed live on TV as a JOKER so he takes it upon himself with pride to embrace and show to the world all the corruption and wrong doings of the world and the abuse that has rotten his mind and the mental conditions he suffers including his inappropriate timed infectious laughs. Keep in mind we were told he's not the one who's going to be the clown prince of crime, we were set up with the fact of there's a guy out there in Gotham who has inadvertently inspired someone to take the mantle up in the future and be the worst thing to happen to Gotham.

Yes Arthur Fleck story is very similar to Jack Napier's aka The Real DC Joker but with changes, this too is the same for one Harleen Quinsel. Oops, sorry, she's just Lee Quinsel in this. This film is taken from Arthur's mind as we switch in-between realities of him being a prisoner, him facing trial and finding love and then eventually coming out and admitting to his wrong doings and telling people he's not The Joker, and they shouldn't idolize him, he's not the symbol that the manic mob is seeking out, which does deter some of his fans. Although he still has a small loyal following, but I'm sure after this film ends they will disperse and wait until THE REAL JOKER appears.

Todd Phillips captured gold in the first story and logically thinking you could argue this film was made as a statement to fans of Arthur and the first Joker as a deterrent to say "Don't idolize this person. Don't be like this person. What you may relate to in that film I will make sure to tell you in the sequel how that's terrible and something you should not be doing and looking up to" and I will applaud him for that. I have questions about the ending, but I'm not sure if we will ever get answers.

Music, acting and cinematography is brilliant. The haunting score of the first does appear at times, but the new musical parts take over, and I feel personally that they should have mapped the musical elements out a lot better. I would have personally taken the direction differently.

The court scenes with The Joker were a highlight. Any scenes Arthur embraces that Joker stood out best to me. It did at times slow down a lot, and I was falling asleep, but I can also blame it on a late night and early morning I had.

Overall, Joker 2 is a whopping disappointment. It's not as bad as I had heard, but it's also not anywhere near as good as the first one. Go into it expecting it's bad, and you'll either hate it some more or you'll see the same as me.

Thanks for reading!

OrangeDox EBooks

Orangedox the website which I have used to publish and share my EBOOKS is now taking accounts down and wanting people to pay to use the website and share content. Unfortunately I am unable to commit payments to keep my account going.

So my ebooks on that website will be inaccessible for the moment. I will be trying to make them viewable and downloadable on another service.

I will update and reshare the books when I have sorted this issue. Thank you for reading.

Attached are the stats of the files from views to downloads.

Top 10 The Boys characters

Oi!

So The Boys has quickly become one of my all-time fave tv shows in recent years thanks to its brash humour, disgusting violence, strong characters, superpowers and ridiculousness. Of course, it's cast and story is fantastic too!

I am here today to simply list 10 of my fave characters from the Amazon Prime hit show. 

Please, if you are not easily offended and disgusted, give it a watch.

10: M.M.

After his father dies while trying to expose Vought, Milk vows to continue his journey. He joins The Boys before quitting to live a quiet life but is later persuaded to return. Milk's detective skills tend to benefit the group greatly. Thanks to him, The Boys can locate A-Train's Compound V stash as well as find out where Kimiko is hiding. He is great at keeping his colleagues in check too as he is the only one who normally gets to call them out whenever they go out of line.

9: Black Noir

Known for his martial arts skills, Noir is the ever silent assassin of The Seven. Noir is basically this series version of Batman but with a twist of insanity thanks to compound V. Thanks to his extraordinary skills, Noir always makes every fight scene a quality one. 

8: Queen Maeve

Queen Maeve's similarities with Wonder Woman are easy to notice. These range from their origin stories to their costumes. Maeve is also a feminist, humanitarian, and member of the LGBTQ community. Maeve is likeable because she isn't amoral. Unlike her colleagues, she knows the difference between right and wrong, hence she always tries her best to avoid doing things that hurt others. Sadly, her hands are ever tied, making her unable to do anything about the injustices she witnesses, including Homelander's decision to let a plane crash.

7: A-Train

While portrayed as a superhero and celebrity athlete, the reality of the character is even more twisted, as he's shown to be an egotistical and narcissistic Supe who cares about nothing else except being the best. He's the catalyst that sort of inadvertently started the series of events that we follow in this show, If he hadn't hit Hughie's girlfriend, we would have not been watching this show and seeing our characters grow and move with the world we know. 

6: Starlight

Having dreamt of joining The Seven ever since she was a child, Starlight soon learns that the group isn't what she expected. She, therefore, conspires with The Boys to bring it down. Depicted as the girl next door, there is hardly anything not to love about Starlight. She is kind, compassionate, and reasonable. She never hesitates to stand up against oppressors either, and as such, even Supes like Homelander have come to respect her. And despite having powers, she doesn't see herself as better than normal humans, a perspective that leads to a wholesome romantic relationship with Hughie.

5: Kimiko

After serving in the Shining Light Liberation Army, Kimiko gets smuggled into the US where she becomes one of the people injected by Compound V in an attempt to create supervillains. However, she breaks free and chooses to do good. Kimiko's unpredictability is what endears her to fans. Since she doesn't speak, it's never easy to figure out what she's going to do. On many occasions, she follows her instincts rather than rely on an operating procedure set up by The Boys. And she is such a brilliant combatant that the police even think her salon massacre is a well-coordinated gang hit. Kimiko and Frenchie have a sweet relationship going on too.

4: Soldier boy

Soldier Boy was introduced in part because Homelander needed a rival, but he turned into someone much more interesting than that. Terrible in a totally distinct way from Homelander, Soldier Boy is really all about old-fashioned masculine ideals, and he’s willing to do pretty much anything for the revenge he feels is owed to him. He makes an uneasy ally for Billy and Hughie, but it’s with his help that the two of them come as close as they ever have to actually taking down Homelander.

3: Hughie

Hughie joins The Boys to get payback after the speedster A-Train, after he "accidentally" runs over and kills his girlfriend while chasing criminals. Hughie is our main protagonist of the show, and he's an everyday guy and easy to relate to. He isn't overly confident or valiant hence why viewers always get the feeling that he'd rather be doing something else. Still, he understands the importance of the mission and always tries to get out of his comfort zone and get the job done. 

2: Butcher

The leader of The Boys is a former British special forces member who has a vendetta against Homelander. This stems from the fact that the Super sexually assaulted his wife, Becca. Butcher often taking an ends-justifies-means approach, Butcher always does everything he can to try and bring down Vought International. That's why he goes as far as to take the V24 to be as powerful as the Supes. His high intellect and no nonsense actions have also made it difficult for Homelander to come up with a way to defeat The Boys.

1: Homelander

As one of the most powerful members of The Seven, Homelander enjoys being a bully. Homelander is basically The Boys version of Superman, but more twisted and more self obsessed. Homelander has become one of the best modern-day TV villains. Whether it's pushing his son from a roof, killing a crowd of innocents, letting a plane crash, having sex while killing people or pleasuring himself on top of a skyscraper, there is nothing psychotic he won't do. He's a bastard, but we love to hate him. 

That's my list now let's just wait for the next season to roll out so we can binge and enjoy the madness of The Boys. #FuckTheSupes

Thanks for reading and visiting my blog, see you again soon and remember to, Stay shiny!

Top 10 Sleep Token songs

Sleep Token are a British rock band from London, formed in 2016. The group is an anonymous, masked collective led by a frontman using the moniker Vessel. They have been categorized under many different genres, including alternative metal, post-rock/metal, progressive metal and indie rock/pop. Progressive Metal is most likely the most apt genre to define this anonymous viral band. Thanks to the power of social media, Sleep Token have assessed a big cult following through going viral. I have never seen a band blow up faster than Sleep Token, there's been bands like these guys who have grown a following gradually such as Ghost or Slipknot. Sleep Token has taken it to another level and most of it is probably thanks to TIKTOK which has had their songs and mostly the summoning used in "thirst traps" and being dubbed as "baby making metal" to a lot of TikTok users. The band have massive headline sold out arena tours worldwide and are teasing a new era, so it's the peak time to be on the bandwagon of Sleep Token.

10: Alkaline

The object of desire in this song is being described as being composed of neither elements (acid or alkaline), but something in between, perhaps. She's mysterious, otherworldly & he can't define her, but he'll accept her fully either way as she has fully encompassed him & he is completely taken over by her, imprisoned in a way, but wilfully so, as he couldn't be happier to be in her chains.

9: Take Aim

"Take Aim" by Sleep Token appears to be a song about an intense and toxic love relationship that involves manipulation, power dynamics, and self-destruction. The singer seems to be in love with someone who provokes conflicting emotions in them, making them both feel alive and tearing them apart. "Take Aim" portrays a love relationship that is both exhilarating and destructive, where the line between pleasure and pain is blurred. The lyrics suggest that the singer is aware of the toxicity of the relationship, but is unable or unwilling to break free from it.

8: Give

The song "Give" by Sleep Token appears to be about a desire for an intimate connection with someone else. The lyrics suggest that the narrator is willing to give all of themselves to this other person, even their darkest impulses. The song opens with the idea of finding a sense of belonging with someone else, which is represented by the idea of "carving out a home" in the dark. It seems that the narrator is drawn to the person they are singing to when they are alone, suggesting a yearning for intimacy and closeness. The chorus repeats the idea of giving all that one can give, and the bridge introduces the idea of "open warfare" and not fighting fair, which could suggest a feeling of vulnerability or intense emotionality that comes with pursuing a deep connection with someone else. The chorus also suggests a mutual desire for this connection, with the narrator wanting to taste the other person and be closer to them. Overall, the song seems to be about a desire for emotional intimacy and a willingness to give oneself fully in pursuit of that connection.

7: Blood Sport

To me, the undertones of this song display a relationship lost with a higher power. Not to say it's Christian by any means, but the lyrics definitely speak of something more than human. With mention of "Somewhere the atoms start fusing..." and "Stuck in a quantum pattern." & "Even if the earth breaks like burnt skin." To me is symbolic to rapture. "And the heavens just won't open up for me." It's not his god. So why would he be allowed in. "Would you invite me in again?" He's asking if it all came to an end, would he be accepted back. To me, it sounds like a man speaking to his higher power & not hearing anything in return - & in the end like giving up.

6: The Offering

The song "The Offering" by Sleep Token is a lyrical ode to a love interest. The singer is offering up "sacrifices" to the person they love and expressing their desire to receive something in return. The speaker uses a garden, silence, and diamonds as metaphors for the pureness and preciousness of the connection they share. They implore the listener to "take a bite" and to "turn the page once again" in order to explore their relationship further. Ultimately, the song suggests the taking of a risk in order to get closer to someone and offers a chance for the speaker and their loved one to discover something beautiful together.

5: Take Me Back To Eden

"Take Me Back To Eden" by Sleep Token seems to be a song about the deep desire to return to a state of innocence and perfection, represented by the biblical concept of Eden. The first verse talks about diving into perfect oceans and being weightless, but also feeling the need to breathe and losing that weightlessness. The chorus mentions "those eyes like fire", perhaps alluding to the temptation of Eve in the Garden of Eden, and the protagonist feeling like a "waking hell" while the gods grow tired. The refrain repeats the desire to return to Eden beyond the path of reason, suggesting an almost irrational longing for a state of purity. Overall, the song seems to be a plea to return to a state of purity and to be seen and accepted for who we are, even if we have lost our way.

4: Granite

The song "Granite" by Sleep Token is a song about strength in adversity. The lyrics talk about someone feeling suffocated by the harshness of their situation, but ultimately deciding to stay strong despite their hardships. The song speaks to the power of standing firm in the face of all that life throws at us, and the importance of believing in ourselves despite the odds. The song showcases the narrator's resolve to remain calm and unshaken, implying that often the best way to survive a difficult situation is by keeping a level head and having faith in ourselves.

3: DYWTYLM

Do You Wish That You Loved Me? It is the ninth track from Sleep Token’s third album release, Take Me Back to Eden. A perspective shift across the album narrative, the song lyrically progresses from a state of obsession and guilt into a track that spans a unique melodic and lyrical shift, a seeming “resolution” of comfort, seeing Vessel observing the time passed between the albums, and begging the worth of self-hatred living vicariously through an idyllic lens, contrasting the acceptance and worth of moving on.

2: Aqua Regia

Aqua Regia by Sleep Token is a powerful song filled with metaphors and vivid imagery. It explores themes of love, change, and the struggle between the past and present. The song seems to be about a tumultuous relationship. The lyrics depict a love that is wild and uncontrollable, likening it to an animal call and a blood trail. Yet, there is also a sense of inevitability and acceptance, as seen in the lines about being a circuit board and hardware. The song uses the term “Aqua Regia,” a mixture of acids that can dissolve gold, as a metaphor. It could symbolize a relationship that is both precious and corrosive, or the transformative power of love. The writer seems to be sending a message about embracing change and letting go of the past. The references to dancing to alarm bells and fighting off change suggest a struggle to accept the new and let go of the old.

1: The Summoning

I feel this is about that divine meeting of souls when two intertwine, and it's like a force field is woven. It's that enigmatic pull that can't be explained only experienced and to attempt to pull them apart would be positively gut-wrenching. "The Summoning" became Sleep Token's first entry on the Billboard rock charts after it went viral on TikTok. The track garnered thousands of views from users who shared their takes and mimicked their favourite parts of the song.

That's my list on the elusive, viral, mysterious band known as Sleep Token. 

What did you think of this worship?

CLICK HERE FOR MY REVIEW OF TAKE ME BACK TO EDEN!

Let me know, and I'll see you again soon for another blog post :)

Stay Shiny!

Aquaman 2: The Lost Kingdom (DCEU)

I have finally seen THE LAST DCEU film Aquaman & The Lost Kingdom and here are my thoughts but first, I will tell you a lil bit about this film. Black Manta seeks revenge on Aquaman for his father’s death. Wielding the Black Trident’s power, he becomes a formidable foe. To defend Atlantis, Aquaman forges an alliance with his imprisoned brother. They must protect the kingdom. So it's a buddy cop superhero type movie at best, but its humour is its weakest point. 

The "forced" humour in Aquaman 2 is just urgh. It's not an MCU movie it shouldn't have that stuff. It's not funny and not needed. I'd rather something actually funny than a cheesy cringey line. "Oh Aquaman you took your brother's throne and his wife? Oh, shame. Shame on you" - Black Manta. "Brother, you're an asshole. A super tight one. Like really tight." - Aquaman. The part about Orm being taught how to run fast like Arthur. 

There are parts I liked about this film, but the "comedy" I've not laughed at. I've laughed at how bad it is and how cringe the lines are, but other than that it's embarrassing and such a step-down from the first. 

James Wan has made an incredible world for Aquaman on screen. The visuals, world building and creature design is incredible. The action scenes were great.

I think all the actors involved did a great job, regardless of the issues on and off-screen. The Amber Heard issue and then the Warner Bros and DCEU screw-ups have torn the promising Billion dollar DC film sequel into a shadow of its former self. 

The film does go back to Arthur Currys character from the first film, and also I thought the world knew about Atlantis after Aquaman and justice league but oh well. Its reveal to the world at the end is like Wakanda reveal in MCU. Stupidest post credits scene ever.

So AQUAMAN 2 is a weak sequel and may aswell be a fish out of water with its mess that it was to make and then to have the final product shown. It's unfortunate for how this turned out after the first was so good. 

6/10

Anime Films Recommendations

Many ask me for anime film recommendations and so here I am to deliver them to you all my dear readers😊 These are films I recommend for anyone interested in a good story or entry into Anime and so this is not a ranked or a rating list.

Your Name

Two teenagers share a profound, magical connection upon discovering they are swapping bodies. Things manage to become even more complicated when the boy and girl decide to meet in person. An absolutely beautiful film. I have seen so many times and it's just so good and hard hitting every single time. 

I Want To Eat Your Pancreas

A high school student discovers one of his classmates, Sakura Yamauchi, is suffering from a terminal illness. This secret brings the two together, as she lives out her final moments. I only seen this once but oh my god there's a part of the film which hit me so hard out of nowhere and I felt that for weeks. Heartbreaking but beautiful.

Weathering With You

In Tokyo, a runaway high school student facing financial struggles ends up with a job at a small-time publisher. One day, he meets a young girl who has the ability to control the weather. Another Makoto Shinkai film on my list and be prepared there's a few on here hehe. Beautiful animation and a lovely story. 

Porco Rosso

The plot revolves around an Italian World War I ex-fighter ace, now living as a freelance bounty hunter chasing "air pirates" in the Adriatic Sea. However, an unusual curse has transformed him into an anthropomorphic pig. Once called Marco Pagot (Marco Rossolini in the American version), he is now known to the world as "Porco Rosso", Italian for "Red Pig". A great animated comedy film that in Studio Ghibli catalogue is underrated, the English voice cast and Marco is voiced by Michael Keaton who is just brilliant in the roll. 

Dragonball Super: Broly

The film follows Goku and Vegeta as they encounter a powerful Saiyan named Broly. The film also chronicles the history of the Saiyans and the background story of these three Saiyans with different destinies connected to the turbulent period of their race, and later culminating in a massive battle between them. By now you all know how much of a big fan of DragonBall franchise I am and well if you want a quick summary of the dragon ball series start with Battle Of The Gods, then Resurrection F and finally get your bum down to watch this epic brawling animated film. Yes, I guess I just recommended two other films too in one but honestly the action and music in Broly is top notch!

One Piece: Red

The story is set on the "Island of Music" Elegia, where Uta, the world's greatest diva, holds her first ever live concert and reveals herself to the public. The Straw Hats, pirates, Marines and fans from across the world gather to enjoy Uta's voice, which has been described as "otherworldly". However, the event begins with the shocking revelation that Uta is the daughter of Shanks who is one of the most powerful pirates. Music, Pirates, Hard hitting action, stunning animation, this film was my massive dive into One Piece. Literally this film was like some narcotics, my system was blown and I needed more and I was so obsessed with the music. 

Howls Moving Castle

When an unconfident young woman is cursed with an old body by a spiteful witch, her only chance of breaking the spell lies with a self-indulgent yet insecure young wizard and his companions in his legged, walking castle. This is my personal favourite Ghibli film and the English dub is superb with Christian Bale voicing the lead and titular character of Howl.

A Silent Voice

A grade-school student with a hearing impairment is bullied and transfers to another school. Years later, the former bully is tormented by his behaviour and sets out to make amends. You go through the film hating the male protagonist, however you feel for him and his pain as the story unfolds. 

Suzume

As the skies turn red and the planet trembles, Japan stands on the brink of disaster. However, a determined teenager named Suzume sets out on a mission to save her country. Able to see supernatural forces that others cannot, it's up to her to close the mysterious doors that are spreading chaos across the land. A perilous journey awaits as the fate of Japan rests on her shoulders. The scenery, music, characters and animation were beautiful! A lot of laughs and gripping story too! I loved it. 

Let me know how you get on with these amazing films, and I hope you enjoy them all. I may do another list like this in the near future, so stay shiny and stick around! :)

Random Ramblin's 50 - The Return Update

24/8/22 - That was the last time I did a Random Ramblin's post. The other random or rambly posts have been a part of my late night series of Ramblin's, which are sort of continuation of these RR posts, but the LNR posts tend to be about 1 topic rather than RR's multiple. Anyway, with that bit of random ramblin all wrapped out and cleared up, let's continue and dive into my life and what exactly has been going on since 24 August 2022.

RANDOM RAMBLIN'S

LIFE

Understandably I went through a rough time in 2022 BUT there were highlights from gigs I attended and of course making new cool friends and memories made with gaming with my existing friends too. RR's have a tendency of having large gaps of time between posts, why? Well the answer is simply I work on other things and forget to update about my life or anything cool or important happened or happening or anything I am looking forward to. So yeah and well outside of blogging and writing, I work and spend time with friends and family and my Girlfriend. Yes, I have a new GF, and she is so special, funny, cute, gorgeous, smart and just the world and more, she is everything I have ever dreamed of, and she makes me happy, and I feel so blessed and lucky and grateful for her and to share a world with her.

Since my last post I finished working the BAR for F&B's and now work as Customer Assistant for a book and hobby craft shop local to me, and it's great honestly, I love it and the crew I work with. I have never been happier in a job than I have in there. I'm also 30 now so wooo hahaha.

My rebuild of myself has been carrying on still as I gym it up, 2 times a week doing some weight lifting and cardio. 5 stone down and kept that 5 stone off last year, which is amazing. I feel my muscles getting bigger and my strength increasing, and I find the gym, fun and enjoyable and I love to go twice a week if I can.

The World Of Wrestling

It's funny how since the last RR post and this one that Vince has left and come back to the WWE twice. He seems to be gone for good now mind as the new allegations are really bad against him and the only way to win is to step down and go fight the allegations and provide the truth and if he is innocent ok that's cool but if not, well that's not good and expect to see him erased from wwe history. The Rock also now is a head shareholder of WWE and also owns his own Trademarked name "The Rock".

Rock is stealing Cody's spot against Roman at Wrestlemania. So Cody dropped his rumble winning privilege for nothing, so what was the point of him winning? I guess time will tell with what happens next as fans rally online for Cody. Oh never mind, during the course of me writing this post things have changed again and Cody Vs Roman is happening at Mania. WWE is also moving to netflix. The network is shutting down and they stopping dvds and blu-rays.

TNA is back and now after all these years of hard work and blood, sweat and tears, the man we owe so much thanks to has been fired from the company. We love and miss you Scott D'Amore.

Sting captured his final title in AEW and that's the tag titles with Darby Allin.

Film & Tv

The Iron Claw, the wrestling movie based on the true tragic story of one of the wrestling worlds most famous family, The Von Erich's is in cinemas now and it's heartbreaking but also spectacular.

A new DragonBall project is coming titled Daima and its set before Super but after Z and all our fave Z warriors been turned to kids again? It looks weird but its going to be something I watch and love no doubt because of DB.

A NEW MY HERO ACADEMIA MOVIE IS COMING!!!!

I re-watched Tomochan is a girl again and it's so lovely🥰 I need the manga and another season.

Music & Gigs

I am off to see Alestorm, Dragonforce & Amaranthe. Unfortunately Sleeptoken Cardiff is sold out😭

Poppy got new song Collab out with Bad Omens called VAN and it's good and catchy.

New band and my current fave album of the year is Dominum's - Hey Living People. It's so good!

The closing notes

I am also on Letterboxd so if you want to see my ratings or some reviews for films, join me there!

https://letterboxd.com/scotty2jonesy

Thanks for reading and visiting my blog today.

Feel free to check out my other blog post's.

Stay Shiny!

TOP 10 2023 POSTS!

10 posts with the most views from 2023 all listed and linked here!

10: Top 10 Limp Bizkit Songs

9: Tmnt: Mutant Mayhem Review

8: No One Will Save You Review

7: Saw X Review

6: 30 Seconds To Mars: Its The End Of The World Review

5: Barbie Movie Review

4: Late Night Ramblin's Vol8

3: Oppenheimer Movie Review

2: Blue Beetle Movie Review

1: WWE 2K23 Predicted Tracklist

Thank you all so much for yet another awesome year blogging! 

Let's get those views even higher next year and get lots more epic content for you all!

Stay Shiny & Happy New Year!

Top 10 Facts About Singapore

So I was looking at my Geographic Analytics and to my surprise a lot of my viewers and readers have been or are from Singapore. I want to pay tribute and give thanks in a way to my readers there today and try to present a brief history on the beautiful country, but also I wish to present ten facts about Singapore today. I hope we both learn something new, and I hope the lovely people of Singapore are well and keep on enjoying my content. Thank you!

Singapore, is a dynamic city-state at the crossroads of Asia, is a captivating blend of modernity and tradition. Renowned for its stunning skyline, Singapore boasts architectural marvels like the iconic Marina Bay Sands and the futuristic Supertree Grove. Beyond its gleaming urban landscape, the city unfolds a rich tapestry of diverse cultures, with neighbourhoods like Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam offering vibrant experiences. A global financial hub, Singapore thrives on innovation and efficiency, yet its lush green spaces, including the renowned Gardens by the Bay, provide serene retreats. Known for its culinary prowess, Singapore's hawker centres serve up a delectable array of dishes, showcasing the nation's multicultural heritage. Singapore's commitment to cleanliness, safety, and forward-thinking urban planning makes it a destination that seamlessly balances tradition and progress.

10: City-State

Singapore is both a city and a country, making it the world's only island city-state.

9: Global Financial Hub

Despite its small size, Singapore is a major global financial centre and is home to one of the busiest ports in the world.

8: Cleanliness

Singapore is known for its cleanliness and strict regulations on public behaviour. Littering and graffiti are heavily fined, contributing to the city's pristine appearance.

7: Multicultural Society

Singapore is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities. Its population includes Chinese, Malay, Indian, and other ethnic groups, resulting in a rich tapestry of traditions, festivals, and cuisines. Singapore has four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin Chinese, and Tamil. English is the main language used in government, education, and business.

6: Merlion

The Merlion, a mythical creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish, is an iconic symbol of Singapore. The city-state has several Merlion statues, with the most famous one located at Merlion Park, overlooking Marina Bay.

5: Gardens by the Bay

This iconic attraction features futuristic Super trees, Flower Dome, and Cloud Forest conservatories. It is a stunning example of Singapore's commitment to sustainability and green spaces.

4: Efficient Public Transportation

Singapore is known for its efficient and well-connected public transportation system, including buses and an extensive MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) network.

3: Strict Laws

Singapore is known for its strict laws and regulations. This includes laws against chewing gum, which is regulated, and strict penalties for offences such as drug trafficking.

2: National Service

All male citizens in Singapore are required to undergo compulsory military service known as National Service, contributing to the country's defence.

1: Marina Bay Sands

This iconic integrated resort features a unique boat-shaped rooftop and houses a hotel, casino, shopping mall, and observation deck, offering breathtaking views of the city.

These facts highlight Singapore's unique blend of modernity, cultural diversity, and adherence to stringent policies that contribute to its distinct character. Big thanks to my readers of Singapore once again, I cannot thank you enough, I love you all and appreciate the support and views.

Stay Shiny!

My Top 10 Highest Rated Films - 2010's Edition

Hello there, So we have reached the end of my top 10 Highest rated films decades series with this post. I will be covering my top 10 films of different decades. This is written as of 9/11/2023, so I could update in the future but who knows. To make things fun and interesting, I will try to post a random fact about the film which you may not know. We all will know why I will love these films and I don't want to repeat myself saying the same sorta things over and over so random fact would be more fun and interesting, is my thought process.

I have lots of 5 star films in many decades BUT I will limit these posts to 1 per franchise rule. I am taking my rankings from the 5 star system of LETTERBOXD. Buckle up, strap in or strap on for the last decade of cinematic universe is upon us today!

Your Name

"Your Name" is a Japanese-animated film directed by Makoto Shinkai. It became a massive success in Japan and internationally, surpassing Studio Ghibli's "Spirited Away" as the highest-grossing anime film.

Guardians Of The Galaxy

The character Groot, voiced by Vin Diesel, has only one line throughout most of the film: "I am Groot." However, Diesel recorded the line in multiple languages to convey various emotions.

Django

In one of the film's intense scenes, Leonardo DiCaprio's character, Calvin Candie, smashes a glass on the dinner table. DiCaprio actually cut his hand during the take but continued with the scene, and his real blood was used in the final cut.

Drive

The film's director, Nicolas Winding Refn, wanted a "real hero" for the lead role, and Ryan Gosling's character rarely blinks in the film to project an image of coolness and confidence.

Whiplash

"Whiplash" was originally a short film, also written and directed by Damien Chazelle. The short film was used to attract investors and secure funding for the feature-length version. "Whiplash" was made on a relatively low budget, but its impact was significant. The film's focus on music and the intense student-teacher dynamic resonated with audiences and critics.

Spider-Man: Across The Spiderverse

"Spider-Verse" employed a unique animation style that combined traditional 2D animation with computer-generated imagery (CGI), resulting in a visually stunning and dynamic look.

Scott Pilgrim Vs The World

The film's pacing is intentionally fast, with rapid editing and snappy dialogue. It mirrors the frenetic pace of the graphic novels and adds to the film's overall energy.

The Wolf Of Wall Street

The film holds the record for the most uses of the F-word in a mainstream, non-documentary film. It uses the word over 500 times.

Joker

Joaquin Phoenix prepared extensively for his role as Arthur Fleck, the man who becomes the Joker. He lost a significant amount of weight to portray the character's emaciated appearance and even kept a journal in character throughout the filming process to explore his character's psyche.

Baby Driver

 Edgar Wright had the idea for "Baby Driver" over two decades before making the film. He first pitched the idea in the 1990s but was only able to bring it to fruition in 2017.

All of these films are iconic and classic, and I have seen so many times. Do you love or like any of these films? Comment and let me know and hit me up on letterboxd @Scotty2Jonesy. 

My Top 10 Highest Rated Films - 00's Edition

Hello there, So I thought I would do something different and interesting today and for the next few blog posts. I will be covering my top 10 films of different decades. This is written as of 9/11/2023, so I could update in the future but who knows. To make things fun and interesting, I will try to post a random fact about the film which you may not know. We all will know why I will love these films and I don't want to repeat myself saying the same sorta things over and over so random fact would be more fun and interesting, is my thought process.

I have lots of 5 star films in many decades BUT I will limit these posts to 1 per franchise rule. I am taking my rankings from the 5 star system of LETTERBOXD. Strap yourself in for a ride through the millennium!

Inglourious Basterds

Quentin Tarantino wrote the role of Colonel Hans Landa specifically for Christoph Waltz. Waltz's performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Donnie Darko

"Donnie Darko" was a commercial failure upon its initial release but gained a cult following on home video. Its enigmatic plot and complex themes have been a subject of analysis and discussion.

Shrek 2

"Shrek 2" was the highest-grossing animated film of its time. It is known for its clever pop culture references and humour.

V For Vendetta

 In the film, the character Evey, played by Natalie Portman, has her head shaved. Portman actually shaved her head on screen, a scene that had a profound impact on her and the character.

Saw

"Saw" was made on a modest budget, but its success spawned a long-running horror franchise. The film's unique premise and plot twists contributed to its popularity.

Star Wars Episode 3

The lightsaber duel between Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi was one of the most complex and choreographed fights in the "Star Wars" series, taking months to plan and rehearse.

Spider-Man 2

Alfred Molina's portrayal of Doctor Octopus received praise for its depth and complexity. The character's mechanical tentacles were controlled by a team of puppeteers.

Lotr Return Of The King

The film won 11 Academy Awards, tying with "Ben-Hur" and "Titanic" for the most Oscar wins by a single film. It is a record that still stands.

Kill Bill Vol 1

Quentin Tarantino and Uma Thurman developed the character of The Bride, also known as Beatrix Kiddo, specifically for her. The film is known for its stylized violence and homage to martial arts films.

The Dark Knight

 "The Dark Knight" was one of the first major Hollywood films to use IMAX cameras for several key action sequences. The use of IMAX technology provided a more immersive cinematic experience.

All of these films are iconic and classic, and I have seen so many times. Do you love or like any of these films? Comment and let me know and hit me up on letterboxd @Scotty2Jonesy. 

My Top 10 Highest Rated Films - 90's Edition

Hello there, So I thought I would do something different and interesting today and for the next few blog posts. I will be covering my top 10 films of different decades. This is written as of 9/11/2023, so I could update in the future but who knows. To make things fun and interesting, I will try to post a random fact about the film which you may not know. We all will know why I will love these films and I don't want to repeat myself saying the same sorta things over and over so random fact would be more fun and interesting, is my thought process.

I have lots of 5 star films in many decades BUT I will limit these posts to 1 per franchise rule. I am taking my rankings from the 5 star system of LETTERBOXD. Buckle up as it's time to smell that teen spirit and go to the raving 90s!

The Mummy

 "The Mummy" marked Brendan Fraser's breakthrough role, leading to his status as an action-adventure star in the late 1990s and early 2000s. 

The Mask

Jim Carrey's character, Stanley Ipkiss, wears a green mask. Due to the green colour of the mask, a blue mask was used during filming to allow for better special effects.

Starship Troopers

The film's mobile infantry suits were so heavy that the actors needed assistance to stand up after falling down while wearing them. They weighed around 40 pounds each.

Home Alone 2

The cameo appearance of Donald Trump in the film was due to the fact that the Plaza Hotel, where the scene was shot, was owned by Trump at the time.

Terminator 2

"Terminator 2" was the most expensive film ever made at the time of its release. The budget was approximately $100 million, a significant amount in the early 1990s.

Mulan

To create the character of Mushu, the filmmakers hired comedian Eddie Murphy to provide the voice. Murphy's improvisational humour added depth to the character.

The Green Mile

Michael Clarke Duncan, who played John Coffey, had never acted in a feature film before. His remarkable performance earned him an Academy Award nomination.

Dumb & Dumber

The infamous "most annoying sound in the world" scene was mostly improvised by Jim Carrey. The reaction of his co-star, Jeff Daniels, was genuine.

Toy Story

"Toy Story" was the first feature-length film created entirely using computer-generated animation. It marked a significant milestone in the history of animation.

The Truman Show

The name "Truman" is a play on the words "true man," reflecting the theme of authenticity and reality in the film. Jim Carrey's character, Truman Burbank, lives his life unknowingly on a reality TV show.

All of these films are iconic and classic, and I have seen so many times. Do you love or like any of these films? Comment and let me know and hit me up on letterboxd @Scotty2Jonesy. 

My Top 10 Highest Rated Films - 80's Edition

Hello there, So I thought I would do something different and interesting today and for the next few blog posts. I will be covering my top 10 films of different decades. This is written as of 9/11/2023, so I could update in the future but who knows. I have lots of 5 star films in many decades BUT I will limit these posts to 1 per franchise rule.

To make things fun and interesting, I will try to post a random fact about the film which you may not know. We all will know why I will love these films and I don't want to repeat myself saying the same sorta things over and over so random fact would be more fun and interesting, is my thought process.

 I am taking my rankings from the 5 star system of LETTERBOXD. Buckle up for a ride down sunny film lane and this time get your neons on as we go to the 1980's!

ROBOCOP

Peter Weller, who played the titular character, had to endure long hours in the RoboCop suit, which was extremely uncomfortable and caused him to lose three pounds a day from sweating.

PREDATOR

The original design for the Predator's face was quite different from the one in the final film. Jean-Claude Van Damme was initially cast as the Predator, but his design didn't work out, leading to the iconic creature we know today.

GREMLINS

"Gremlins" was originally conceived as a much darker and scarier film. However, it was later developed as a horror-comedy, striking a balance between humour and horror.

SEE NO EVIL, HEAR NO EVIL

"See No Evil, Hear No Evil" is loosely based on the novel "Two for the Seesaw" by William Gibson, but it takes a comedic and farcical approach to the material. 

BILL & TED'S EXCELLENT ADVENTURE

The roles of Bill and Ted were originally offered to other actors, including Pauly Shore and Sean Penn. However, Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter ultimately landed the roles and became synonymous with the characters. The phone booth was originally supposed to be a van, but they opted for a Dr Who nod. 

ROCKY IV

The training montage featuring Sylvester Stallone as Rocky and Dolph Lundgren as Ivan Drago is famous. The sequence was filmed in Wyoming, and Stallone had to be airlifted to a hospital after being punched in the chest by Lundgren to maintain authenticity in the fight scenes.

INDIANA JONES: RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK

In the famous boulder scene, Harrison Ford outran a real boulder, which was a fibreglass prop. The stunt was extremely dangerous, but it resulted in an iconic film moment.

BEETLEJUICE

The title character, Beetlejuice, was originally envisioned as a winged, reptilian demon. However, the final design for the character was more whimsical and unique.

STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK

The big reveal of Darth Vader being Luke Skywalker's father was kept a well-guarded secret. Mark Hamill, who played Luke, was only informed of this twist moments before filming the scene to preserve the surprise.

BACK TO THE FUTURE

The original choice to play Marty McFly was Eric Stoltz. He filmed several scenes but was later replaced by Michael J. Fox, leading to the iconic casting that we know today.

All of these films are iconic and classic, and I have seen so many times. Do you love or like any of these films? Comment and let me know and hit me up on letterboxd @Scotty2Jonesy. 

My Top 10 Highest Rated Films - 70's Edition

Hello there, So I thought I would do something different and interesting today and for the next few blog posts. I will be covering my top 10 films of different decades. This is written as of 9/11/2023, so I could update in the future but who knows.

I have lots of 5 star films in many decades BUT I will limit these posts to 1 per franchise rule. I am taking my rankings from the 5 star system of LETTERBOXD. To make things fun and interesting, I will try to post a random fact about the film which you may not know. We all will know why I will love these films and I don't want to repeat myself saying the same sorta things over and over so random fact would be more fun and interesting, is my thought process.

Strap in for a ride back to the soulful 70s!

The Exorcist

"The Exorcist" is known for its shocking scenes, but did you know that the sound of Regan's neck cracking during her infamous head-spinning scene was created by twisting a leather wallet inside an old leather jacket?

Jaws

While the animatronic shark used in "Jaws" was named Bruce by the production crew, it often malfunctioned during filming, leading to Spielberg creatively using suspenseful music and camera angles to build tension without showing the shark.

Blazing Saddles

"Blazing Saddles" features an iconic scene where cowboys enjoy a hearty campfire meal. The sound of their breaking wind during this scene was created using the recordings of actual cowboys and cowgirls.

Alien

The chestburster scene in "Alien" was a surprise to most of the actors. The only one who knew what would happen was John Hurt, whose reaction was genuine, creating a more authentic shock on screen.

The Godfather

The famous cat in the opening scene of "The Godfather" was not originally in the script. It was a stray cat that Marlon Brando found on the set and decided to include in the scene.

Grease

In the final scene of "Grease" when the car takes off into the sky, the car was actually a full-scale mechanical replica with wheels that retracted, making it appear as though it was flying.

One Who Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest

"One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" was one of the few films to win all five major Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Adapted Screenplay.

Life Of Brian

Monty Python's "Life of Brian" was met with controversy upon its release but has since become a cult classic. The film was banned in several countries for its religious satire, but John Cleese's mother defended it publicly.

Star Wars

The iconic opening crawl of "Star Wars" was created using practical effects. The text was physically printed on a 6-foot-long camera bed and filmed against a starry background to achieve the famous scrolling effect.

HALLOWEEN

The original "Halloween" (1978) had a limited budget, so the famous Michael Myers mask was a William Shatner mask painted white and altered to create a more haunting appearance.

All of these films are iconic and classic, and I have seen so many times. Do you love or like any of these films? Comment and let me know and hit me up on letterboxd @Scotty2Jonesy. 

Top 10 Life Is Strange Songs

Life is Strange is a popular episodic video game series developed by Dontnod Entertainment and published by Square Enix. The series is known for its narrative-driven gameplay and the ability to make choices that impact the story and its outcomes. This is one of my favourite game series of all time. The first game in the series was released in 2015, and it has since expanded to include several titles and spin-offs. Each game in the series focuses on a different set of characters and storylines, but they all share the common theme of choices and consequences.

The decisions players make throughout the games can significantly impact the narrative and lead to different outcomes, making "Life is Strange" known for its branching and emotionally charged storytelling. The series has gained a dedicated following for its unique approach to narrative-driven gaming. With 5 titles under its belt and numerous books and comics Life Is Strange keeps growing, and I hope it continues, and we get another instalment soon. I love the series and its soundtracks, and today I am picking 10 of my fave songs from the games.

Crosses - Jose Gonzalez

"Crosses" adds to the emotional and atmospheric depth of that particular scene or moment in the game. José González's music is celebrated for its ability to create a mood of introspection and contemplation.

The Right Way Around - Daughter

 "The Right Way Around" by Daughter is one of the tracks chosen to complement the game's storytelling and mood. It adds to the overall immersive experience of the game for players.

No Woman - Whitney

"No Woman" is one of Whitney's signature songs and has been widely acclaimed for its soulful and melancholic sound. The song is known for its warm, horn-driven arrangements and Julien Ehrlich's distinctive falsetto vocals. It's often associated with themes of love, longing, and introspection. It's perfect for those melancholy scenes in the game that have lingered with me. 

Banquet - Bloc Party

A fun and freeing experience is having a break while on the run and rocking out to this in a run-down hotel in LIS2. "Banquet" is one of Bloc Party's most popular and recognizable songs and has been a staple in their live performances. The track has been praised for its fusion of post-punk and indie rock elements and is often associated with the mid-2000s indie rock revival. The song's lyrics touch on themes of desire, relationships, and youthful exuberance. "Banquet" is celebrated for its infectious and dynamic sound, and it has remained a favourite among fans of indie and alternative rock music.

On Melancholy Hill - Gorillaz

"On Melancholy Hill" is one of the songs that enhance the emotional and immersive experience of the game and has become one of my fave songs, and it always takes me back to the part of the game it appeared in. 

D.A.N.C.E - Justice

A really fun upbeat dance track in Life Is Strange 2 that has stuck with me since its appearance. Music plays an essential role in setting the atmosphere and mood in the "Life is Strange" games, and the inclusion of "D.A.N.C.E" by Justice adds to the overall experience of the game.

Creep - Mxmtoon

It's a cover but a cover so good that it felt fresh and new. The song sums up Alex life and feelings living in a new town. Radiohead's "Creep" is celebrated for its raw and emotionally charged lyrics, and it has become one of the band's signature songs. Mxmtoon's cover of the song adds her own style and interpretation to this classic track.

Death With Dignity - Sufan Stevens

Love this one, The song is known for its poignant and introspective lyrics and appears in Life Is Strange spin off titled The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit. 

On The Flip Of A Coin - The Streets

From the first time I heard this in Life Is Strange 2 it stuck with me throughout my play through such an interesting and catchy song. The streets are great at telling a story and I love how it resonates with myself and with LIS2. The song reflects on themes of luck, chance, and the unpredictable nature of life. Mike Skinner's lyrics often delve into personal and relatable experiences, and "On The Flip Of A Coin" is no exception, as it explores the idea that life's outcomes can be as uncertain as the flip of a coin.

To All Of You - Syd Matters

This always plays in my mind at random points, and it makes me smile, and sometimes it also makes me sad. I always envision Max walking down the school corridor and thinking of all that happens in the first game to her. Tragic, beautiful, powerful. The song is known for its gentle, melodic sound and evocative lyrics. It's often associated with the game's themes of adolescence, friendship, and choices. The song captures a sense of nostalgia and youthful yearning, making it a fitting choice for the soundtrack of a game that explores the complexities of growing up and facing difficult decisions. The emotional and atmospheric quality of "To All of You" has made it a favourite among fans of both the band and the game.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog; your support and engagement mean the world to me!

Top 10 ATTACK ON TITAN songs!

To commemorate the end of the ATTACK ON TITAN series, I have decided to list my 10 fave songs from the anime. This will include, openings and ending themes aswell as OST from all seasons of the titan shifting series.

Jiyuu No Tsubasa - Linked Horizon

The second opening is kicking off my list. Linked Horizon are absolutely outstanding with all of their musical work they have provided for the attack on titan series. The title means Wings Of Freedom. The song explores the themes of freedom, struggle and victory over oppression and how it is an ongoing battle.

Red Swan - Yoshiki, Hyde

A truly beautiful song that has made me cry a few times. "Red Swan" is a song about the power of love and hope, as well as the courage to keep fighting despite adversity. The lyrics tell the story of someone who is trying to make a better life for themselves despite their fear and hardships. The singer encourages them to try and keep going, to reach for the stars, to overcome the darkness in their life. The singer uses the imagery of a red swan to symbolize their determination to reach the light and to fly away despite the pain. The song speaks to the strength of the human spirit and the willingness to break free from cycles of hurt and find happiness.

Under The Tree - Sim

A dramatic, emotional track from Sim and yes SIM will appear again on this list, they are absolute TITANS with their music. It was so awesome to have SIM appear and make two songs for this anime which have gone on to gain critical success. "Under the Tree" is a song about wanting to hold onto a relationship with someone who has left, despite time moving forward and the uncertainty of whether the other person feels the same way.

Attack On Titan - Hiroyuki Sawano

Ok so Hiroyuki Sawano is an incredible musician and composer for piecing the next few songs together on my list. What starts is electro followed by the orchestral choir which is the signature musical style Hiroyuky brings with his original soundtrack. His music brings the destruction, emotions, betrayals and grandiose battles to scale!

Bauklotze - Hiroyuki Sawano

Hange makes their last stand with this beautiful song accompanying it. The song's title means "Building Blocks" in German. While the lyrics themselves may not have a direct connection to the plot or themes of the series, the song's overall composition and use within the show contribute to the viewer's experience and engagement with the story. Sawano's music has played a significant role in making "Attack on Titan" a memorable and emotionally powerful anime series.

You See Big Girl - Hiroyuki Sawano

Death and destruction coming from a seemingly unstoppable beast that towers over 60ft high this track captures that feel of seeing the death and destruction and even madness that follows from seeing an ally turn into the very thing that has been killing your friends and family. The use of various languages and the blend of orchestral and electronic elements in the soundtrack contribute to the overall epic and intense experience of the series.

Boku No Sensou - Shinsei Kamattechan

A truly terrifying military march lead into death and destruction, what would happen if the armies of the world had titans in their control? It would be scary, and this one backs it up but it's so damn catchy! JUSTICE, JUSTICE LA LA VIVI DA! The title means My War.

The Rumbling - Sim

Once again we have Sim with their strongest song dedicated to the horrific ground shaking event known as The Rumbling! The song ties in and captures Eren’s perspective for the last season. Eren having a catastrophic plan and fights to control his own destiny.

Shinzo Wo Sasageyo! - Linked Horizon

Come on now, sing it loud and proud with me my brother's! SASAGEYO, SASAGEYO, SHINZO WO SASAGEYO! The title means dedicate your hearts!

Gurren No Yumiya - Linked Horizon

The song that started it all, first time I heard this, I was blown away and so hyped. It always gets me hyped and singing and imagining just swinging along slashing Titans down. The title means the bow and arrow of crimson.

Thank you very much for visiting my blog and for all your support. 

If you are interested I have a story I made set in the AOT universe, It's free to download HERE!