"The Port" & Editing Film

I shot some really expired film over the weekend and cut it together with music.
There's a moment, I think, with most/all filmmakers that just need to step back and let the project breathe. This is something that was first conceived to have voiceover. A Bukowski type tough guy patois. This is NOT that movie. The footage guided what it was. A quiet passing of an item between one man to another. In fact, I wrote some corny voice over narration, check it out, before I had the footage:

EXT. GARDEN - DAY
A rotten apple hangs from a tree.
NARRATOR (MALE, V.O.)
I once knew a man who would whistle all the time.
MAN 1 (JAMES) sits on the patio reading a book.
NARRATOR (MALE, V.O.) (CONT’D)
At first I thought he did it to fill dead air.
EXT. BEACH - DAY
MAN 1 (JAMES) walks on an empty beach.
NARRATOR (MALE, V.O.)
Turns out it was to stop himself from saying the things he really wanted to say to people...
EXT. BEACH (UNDER PIER) - DAY
MAN 1 (JAMES) walks as waves crash behind him.
NARRATOR (MALE, V.O.)
...to tell them what he really thought of them.
EXT. FOOTBRIDGE - DAY
Palm trees. We settle on a MAN 2 (VINCE) walking across a footbridge with a book in hand. He opens the cover, starts reading.
EXT. PIER - DAY
Man 3 (JIMMY) sits on a bench at the edge of the pier.
NARRATOR (MALE, V.O.)
...imagine going through life with a tune stuck in your head. All the while knowing what it really means...
Man 2 (VINCE) sits next to Man 3 (JIMMY), hands off book.
NARRATOR (MALE, V.O.) (CONT’D)
...unable to communicate with people while hiding disappointment...
Man 3 (JIMMY) gets up and walks off, leaving Man 2 (VINCE) on the bench.
EXT. BEACH - DAY
The waves break violently. Two plastic lawn chairs are out. Man 1 (JAMES) sits in one.
Man 2 (JIMMY) saunters up, sits in the empty one. He hands the book over to Man 1 (JAMES). Man 1 gets up, exits.
EXT. PATIO - DAY
MAN 1 (JAMES) sits on the patio reading the book. We creep in. Inching closer. And closer still. Man 2 (VINCE) steps from sliding door.
EXT. BEACH - DAY
The book sits on mossy rocks, pages turn in the wind.
NARRATOR (MALE, V.O.)
...perhaps one day he will find a way to express his thoughts.
CUT TO BLACK

Yeah, on the nose and stupid. Sometimes, you have to let the movie tell you what it wants to be. Sometimes it requires so little.

Burning The American Flag

Most people know not what they burn.
I wasn't born here, so I understand what it meant to find the stars and stripes. And what it meant for my family. Not to get corny, but I think I appreciate it a lot more, because it gave so us a life in comfort. Dumb comfort. So when people burn the flag, because they didn't get their way...it is insulting. Though, protected under the Constitution, it still irks me. And should irk true Americans.

It's more strange that Americans, I mean born here, don't hold the American flag in that reverence it deserves. We mouth the words of our anthem and take a knee to prove our dissidence to the rules that have turned on us. I think the whole issue of the revolution against England wasn't meant for people to now turn on their own. We've spent way too much time fighting among ourselves already. There is no more unity.

So it sickens me when people burn the American flag. Since it means something to me, but a cloth to someone else. Trump says people should be fined or serve jail time for it. A sticky wicket to navigate. Since we should already feel obligated NOT to. Which, when theses idiots who do, complain about government intervention or more rules to govern us, it's because of stupidity like this.

Burn your bra instead. Love me some floppers.

Fidel Castro Dead At 90

I know what you're all thinking "what does this clown know about Castro?"
To that I say "motherfucker...yeeeeer right!"
Most people think it's that retard on hipster t-shirt (that's Che Guevara, retard!)
It's bizarre this dude outlived most of his contemporaries, despite being somewhat of a benevolent leader. No one, besides the U.S. attempted to de-throne him (I think that's the right term) yet, he still lives. Oh well.

Today he dies. So give thanks, I guess, to the threat that never was. I mean, if you think a country the size of Ohio was the launching point of Russia, you either think Russia is that crafty or people in that era were really dumb. Must be the same attitude we have now with Middle Easterners. I suppose some people still hate Castro.

Know what I think?...get ready for Cuba to become Vegas 2.

Florence Henderson

Florence Henderson was born in 1934 and died on Thanksgiving 2016.
I remember the pilot episode of "The Brady Bunch" with her miniskirt and bobbed young Mom hair. Boy...did I want her to be my mom. I mean...except that would be weird. I'm not going to write about what she meant to me based on the show, but rather people's relationship with death and God. My friend from college Chris, is a devout Christian. I recall he and all going to backyard keg parties whooping it up. Many a night he would step in to male sure I didn't get my zit face punched in, little did I know, he was more Boy Scout than first realized. He's got a great familu now with a sweet wife. I recall I met her during those college years, and she disapproved of me since I smoked, drank and raised Hell. She had bigger plans for Chris. He willingly accepted. He found God and knows not to press my heathen ass about it. Same with my sister. She's not overt about it. But silently attends church. She isn't the type to judge you because of it. Born-agains would. She just likes that religion brought her structure. Maybe semblance of order.

I guess if we can conjure up the idea of God, then one surely must exist. Most would likely believe we do so to sidestep grief our brains can't handle. Tragedy as to why 5 year olds would die on a bus can be explained.

Sorry for the grim entry. A part of my childhood gets logged away. Younger generation will discover Florence Henderson and the joy she brought people...it was a life worth living. Bring joy to others.

Public School History

Pilgrims landed on this day...and then drowned witches. A turkey was brought out to celebrate dead witches. And they invited their brown friends because they like corn.

Afterwards, to work out the pinecone they just attempted to swallow they played games while family and friends drank some magic New World fermented leaf drank, which made them puke. Fun is fun. Happy Thanksgiving.

White Privilege...Was REVOLKED!

The Democrats really don't want to own up to the fact that Hillary Clinton is a scumbag. The newest is that White folk voted for Trump because they didn't want to lose White privilege.
It's not farfetched, but certainly reaching. I think most people who did vote for Trump really hated Hillary. She's just not a nice person. Neither is Trump, so you really have to realize what a true scumbag they see Clinton. Also, they didn't want Bill anywhere near the Oval office again Why? Maybe because the people who think that Bill was such a great Prez also hate him on a personal level. I'm not saying it's right to vote on emotion alone, but let's face it, on a primal level, we may just hate a playa' player. So, the fact that making Bill suffer through his wife (most likely soon-to-be-ex) will harangue him ad nauseum.

Realistically, you get the feeling even Bill didn't want her to win?

Anyhooters, I think it's funny, all the White privilege talk going around. I have a White friend who lives in a van. If there were privilege being handed out from Whitey to Whitey...I'd like to know so I can pass along that information to him.

I will say, after a few years of living and working in Whitey's world, it's really not that horrid. Though, I am not Mexican or Black, my Dad said I can pass as Puerto Rican, perhaps I don't get that chip that Officer Pig is looking out for me. I think what most people are alluding to, is that White privilege was at the precipice of finally evening the field. And that scared people into the extreme. To me, it seems our society naturally gravitates towards certain things we can't explain. I mean, I have darker skin than my sisters, so I am considered less "desirable." Does it bother me? Meh. I get along fine. But it's not an American slave mentality that puts it in people's minds. And it's not going to change just because you say so.

I am, however, astonished how much effort some of my White friends put forth to distance themselves from this new regime. It cracks me up, because I know they are more serious than I could ever be.

The Chattanooga Bus Accident

If you've ever watched a horror movie, nothing would add up to this. A bus carrying a load of kids kid a utility pole and split in half. 5 children were killed instantly. The driver was arrested.

In this movie scenario, the parents would take pitchfork and gasoline and dole out the justice. Revenge.

However, we live in times where the grieving pain of those parents who had so many plans for the holiday, has been literally snuffed out. If you value any life at all, this is painful even to a heartless stone cold shitbag like me.

I can't imagine the fear children have at the age where they can't add up the tragedy that has struck the other 32 that survive. Do you tell them later on, that their survival was an act of God? Then how do you explain the others that didn't make it out? Do you treat your kids now with a softer touch, as they have cheated death, and if you are superstitious perhaps later in life death peers out again?

I have no idea. Only that in this time of thanks, there are parents now that...it's unimaginable the pain and grief they will have to endure. The lights are out, meals canceled. And real pain begins. Damn...
...life is hard.

A Raise

So...my company gave me a raise.
Sort of.
It was a survey they did to determine how much I SHOULD be getting paid. Turns out it was 30% less than what the job called for. All things considered, how in God's name did they know what a job like mine required. I would say there are less than 100 people who do my job. So, I'm guessing that they just went for the next step or something.

Trust me, I'm very grateful for the bump. And now has really picked up, so very happy to actually be working rather than sitting around. Though, this means a lot of my own projects get put onto the back burner. SUCKS! Isn't that always the case, you get a little peek into having a real life, then it gets taken away.

Well, a bit of weight has been taken from me. So I'll just wake up a little happier instead of dread.
 

Opinions Without Experience

There is no right way to make a movie. There is....but most of us can't afford it. So, we do with what we can. That said...make a fucking movie in the "real world" before you offer an opinion. Jesus Christ my biggest pet peeve are people who chime in about how disorganized something is...who have never themselves put their opinions to the test. Why? Cowards. Not scared that they can't make a movie, a dumb chimp can flip a switch...I'm saying it's paralyzing if you know too much or too little.

Not to blow smoke up my own skirt, but I am flexible, a disorganized film is thinking beyond the box. Most people will never have this because they don't have experience. Experienced people fly along knowing what style production is being ran. There is that idealized run set that is rare. Somewhat non-existent, so you better have exlerience to br flexible.

I prefer the people who know less but have ambition. It's always a tenative hold on sets. Painfully chaotic at times to try to get focus. Too many idiots throw in opinion when it looks like derailed project then gloat in hindsight. Hey fuckface, put yourself in the ring at this level and see if you can do it. Otherwise, shut your fucking face. Academia has fucked with EVERYONE. Because it's a safe haven. Want a dolly shot? No problem. Want a 2K par can? Sure, just fill out a form. Camera lenses, props, soundstage...I NEVER had an issue. In the "real world" calls are rarely returned and you constantly beg for the smallest scraps. Only other real filmmakers know this. The rest are posers. Also. .the people who know too little...the issue is their eyes are bigger than their stomach. Meaning their minds work from a viewpoint of what they see. Can we go from top of trees and follow character into house. You got crane money? Can we smoothly travel with character from the field to the barn? I guess there's a discount on stradicam operators.

These are limitations newbies wouldn't see. And why should they? They have a vision. And I don't blame them in the least, but it does cause some to abandon all hope. I mean, some.

The more experienced people on set such, write for what we have and can do. Sometimes that yields boring results, but I'm doing it, you're not. Put your shit into the fire and let's see how you do.

I'm just sick and tired of armchair film student mentality. If you're going to have an opinion about how another set is run, you better know how to do these things yourself. Otherwise, you're just another goldfish burping out bubbles.

"Star Wars" DeeeeeLuxe Edition

People are griping about the same machine that created their childhood. You guys miss the point. The true concept of this franchise is so that YOUR kid's kid gets to be annoyed by it. You understand the phenomenon isn't the movie, it's the rabid elation of an event. Which is tied into memories. Nostalgia is a powerful thing. Especially in this darker world we're in. Not because of Trump, but very little is taken pride of these days. I honestly believe we willed "Star Wars: Force Awakens" to success as it was the last time anything was American conceived (shot in England though).

Also, I don't have that big a gripe on Disney. They are still in America. So...thanks and may the force...you know.

Who The F Is Mike Pence?

First off, he's listed as "Mike" instead of "Michael" That's pretty fucking rad.
Second, who the F is Joe Biden?
Vice Presidents seem to be useless. So, I won't get too much into that.
For liberals, damn dude...this guy seems to be Satan warmed over. Or so they think. It was a comedy bit by Dave Chappelle. Saying if he ever won presidency, he'd elect a Mexican VP. They wouldn't dream of assassinating him knowing who would follow.

It sounds like he's a real asshole though. Fine tuning who can get abortions. By the way, who the fuck cares? I will NEVER understand this one. A woman can do whatever they want with their bodies. Fact. It's hilarious old White dudes even chime in on it. Maybe this country is more Christian than we realize. Or maybe you realized and I'm just catching up.

Abortions isn't murder. I can't fucking remember shit when I was three years old. You think a fetus knows anything? Go fuck yourselves. You think this leads to more reckless behavior? Hate to break it to you, but this new generation aren't like our generation. They don't accept rejection as easily. So they aren't in THAT big of a hurry to bone. Teens are less...animalistic as we were, since all we had were shitty smut magazines found in the woods somewhere. Kids today grow up with porn. So when a teen guy sees a snatch now...yawwwwnnnn!

So back off, Pence.
And for you Trump haters, be careful what's behind him seems pretty bad.

"Jackie"

There's a movie coming out this December about the First Lady of the only president to be assassinated in the present, media crazy era.

I never understood the thing around John Kennedy. Mostly because I'm a player hater and he got more tail than a toilet seat. More than anything he had Marilyn Monroe killed. Or the mob did. To embarrass him. Either way, he treated women like shit. And yet...we hold Trump in contempt and Kennedy as the second coming of Christ. Including this movie, which shows the immediate aftermath of a terrible event.

Had Kennedy lived, I doubt he'd be given the hero's send off. He wasn't exactly "of the people." Having grown up with a bootlegger fortune background, and turning on the people who put him there. Or rather, how much he may have resented the Joseph Kennedy gangsta' shit. Can you imagine the level of greaseball shit you have to have to take an American president out?

Anyway, I'm going to go see this movie, because it was shot in 16mm film. That's fucking badass. The reasoning...it matches footage culled from the past. I like that. I like they want authenticity and they aren't willing to compromise for convenience. I also like that foreign people are making this movie. I like perspective of our history told through the eyes of people discovering it. Made more sense by the fact that we are saturated with so many conspiracies. Though, I don't think this is about that.

Here, take a look at the trailer...real artsy fartsy:

White Privilege

I think if you ask any brown or black person if White privilege exists in America...oh boy! I know it does as I saw it first hand. For the most part rich Whitey isn't afraid of you. They want you to do better and get money and feel better about yourself...so you don't rob them. Simple.
I grew up with rich Whitey. Man, was I jealous. They had fancier cars, nicer clothes, great vacations. Meanwhile, I sat in my folk's leaky basement. I remember our neighbors across the street had the only pool in the neighborhood. I went swimming there a few times. Then never heard from again. The family was from Kentucky. Not sure if it were a race thing, since I still hung out with their son, but it felt like it. A White person in this situation would most likely shrug off the slight. I didn't even recognize as a kid until my oldest sister brougbt it up. She's experienced worst as she was older to know better. Imagine a Black fellow who experiences these little things for years.

I've been pulled over for real issues. Most likely Blacks just because they have a nice car or are in a nice neighborhood. It doesn't help that some of these folks thump music drawing this type of attention unnecesarily. Yeah...not all, but you know that's the case.

Does White privilege get you the job? I'm not sure. I have a friend now whom I spent a few months working with only to have management not call him back. Meanwhile, he's waiting by the phone with a very sick wife and he's near broke. Do you think he feels that privilege?

Look, I'm sure a lot of this "privilege" isn't made up to excuse why you haven't gone further in life. Or just fucking lazy. There are times that I do feel some White folk get a break. But I can't use that as an excuse as to why I haven't done more. I argue with this Filipino dude at work about it. He believes America systemically oppresses brown people. And won't change. Though he's been able to buy a house and raise a mixed-race family. I consider that the major issue. Not knowing what you are capable of but worrying what others take from you.

Ashley Graham

Mattel created a plus sized Barbie.
Great.
You know...women are their worst enemies. I've heard more women fat shame than men. It's really insidious too because it's well meaning "that looks REALLY good on you!' As oppose to....? (a hippo).

So in order to combat this...what is it now? Fat Cheering?

I will tell you now...not a single man would turn down a roll with Ashley Graham. Fact. Except gays. Every dude I know don't have these choices. We take pussy where pussy is available. Trump's celebrity pussy grab is an illusion we hope to get to one day. Not to sidetrack here, but a lot of dating experts will say...it's a numbers game. Grab enough pussies...get smacked a bunch...one will eventually respond postively and that's your life mate. Though, good luck on those conjugal visits.
I digress.
Enjoy the new plus sized Barbies, you cry babies. I don't think my niece looks at her Barbies as an aspiration. If you think about the dolls are simply a canvas to which to expand on, her creativity seems to...ahem...trump the body dysmorphic concern.

Oh West Virginia...

...You never disappoint...

"Clay County Development Corp. director Pamela Ramsey Taylor made the post following Republican Donald Trump's election as president, saying: "It will be refreshing to have a classy, beautiful, dignified First Lady in the White House. I'm tired of seeing a Ape in heels."

Clay Mayor Beverly Whaling responded: "Just made my day Pam."

Taylor told WCHS-TV on Monday night that she was put on leave.

Clay's town council planned to discuss the issue at a previously scheduled meeting Tuesday evening."

Do you get the feeling this was written in some country club somewhere while poking at a endive salad? I can only assume, they're not that removed from being the byproduct of the inbred south. BUT...big but...I'm sure this is how women speak to each other when no one is looking. Most likely, proving much worse. And probably about my small pecker. Bitches.

Anyway, let's not write things we regret later. I don't regret nothing I wrote here. Since no one gives a flying fuck what I think. Maybe if you get to the ranks of say...MAYOR...it behooves you to act like...you know classy ladies, instead of plantation owning cunts.

Incidentally, Melania Trump isn't exactly...proper. She's a former jiggle model, most likely taken a few to the throat to win pageants. From some Eastern block shit-show country. Gold digging her way to class all the way.

If you think that (ahem) trumps Ivy League'd educated Michelle Obama, man...I feel terrible for you city/state/banana republic.

Super Moon!

Why in God's name are we celebrating something that big closing in on Earth? Are we that unaware that it's a matter of time before it flings out of orbit and we're in pitch darkness? That's cool though because we wouldn't really comprehend since we'd be flung towards Venus. I'm no scientist, so don't quote me.

The moon is great though. I use to look up at it thinking it was a star and wish the worst on my enemies. Tnough I had none since I was just a dumb kid. But I'd also wish I could see some tits. I really loved being that retarded.

So, we've had a solid relationship. My ex-girlfriend was huge into astrology, as most dumb chicks are. Her faith in those things drove me crazy. Because everything was as a result of shit she saw in the sky. Or foretold in fire. Nothing based in science. We were a great couple like that. Mamby jahamby as I use to call it. I guess I still do.

Cut THE Shit

Trump is a bully. No doubt. But let's not pretend we're any better...because we've slowly edged our prez into being our pal and buddy. Who wouldn't want a blowjob in the Oval Office?

So this garbage post election about Trump making fun of retards or whatever, is moot. You are implying Presidents should be held in higher regards and standards. Like when this president championed a punk kid for his briefcase bomb, and then this filthy animal turned around and sued. Smooth move...."friend."

Much more hypocritcal are the dummies who spent time in college in a frat or sorority and now defend "the little people" as if this cause was some noble one. Fuckface...you were the exclusive people.

Anyway, let's cut the shit with painting Trump to being the garbage human he is. People knew that and still decided this garbage was less offensive then the other one. Which, the memes you should be posting are the ones which show Hillary in complete shock she lost to a guy who uses hair dye desinged by Ronald McDonald.

Also...this scrutiny with whom he chooses his advisors and shit. I doubt any American knows how that works. Though, Trump isn't known for surrounding himself with no-men. His biggest asset really is his daughter Ivanka. She is pretty damn smart despite her good looks. She seems to be a steady ship too. With nary an ounce of political aspiration. Though, it would be interesting is she ran later in life first father/daughter and perhaps woman as prez. Interesting times.

Okay...Now I Really Feel Bad For White Folk

In the wake of a Trump presidential victory, which I still can't believe I'm typing..my White friends are desperately attempting to disassociate themselves from the other White ones who are...a little rougher when it comes to making America White again. That suuuuuucks. Because the thing is...these are the same people who adamantly defend Muslims against having to speak up against the militant ones. That's why America rules. And folks, why White Americans should be seen as cool. The reason being that White America will risk losing friends and family to stand by the conviction of the American spirit. Not exclusively, as there are Hispanic and Blacks in military that defend our ability to do these things. I feel White America gets a bad rap even though they scream how much they disapprove of the "White Wash" rule.

It says to me...everyone is much more kind hearted than the dude taking over would have you believe. Or whom you assume is a bigot. If you've never had a prejudicial thought in your head, I'd know you were full of shit.

Enjoy the next 4 years and do your best to not stress where stress isn't needed. My own health suffers these days because of it. I know people are trying to be pre-emptive, but most of us are trying to move along.
Remember..we're the UNITED Fucking States. No one fucks with us and gets away with it.
(Unless you have something we want, preferably your hot women and oil).

Koepernick Got Trump Elected

How come no one has blamed this puff haired weirdo for getting the Orange one the presidency? Yes people...because of this knucklehead spitting on 'Morica...most people sent a message to him that the new America won't include a kneeling douchebag. Also he sucks on the field. So there you go. If he dominated the NFL all would be forgiven.

Anyway, America is pretty badass already
 Also...the clowns who told Trump voters that he duped his supporters? Are you fucking kidding me? You should be dropping to your knees and crying for joy that the government doesn't work that erratically. As you should have known. Now is the tine to shut your traps and get shit done. He could be "Dave" A political outsider whose ignorance causes him to repair the bloat that is Washington. But what do I know

The Protesters

Apparently Hillary Clinton broke down and cried. I mean, wouldn't you? You lost to the class clown bully. Nothing she could possibly do made her any more likable. Which was strange how she jumped the sure-bet winner of Bernie.

But I dunno. Maybe Trump would've won no matter who it was. People saw 8 years go stagnant and maybe wanted to shake shit up. He didn't win the popular vote, but he won the electoral. Which means that each state counts much more than...say...the larger populated ones. Seems to be contradictory, until you realize the fly-over states are the ones who've weighed the same as..say...New York or California. You add enough of those states up, well, you shouldn't have flown over so fast.

Well, now there's a lot of Trump's plate. A lot of crazy promises. Maybe he was being blow-hardy. Seems this is the only time in history where people may NOT want him to follow through with his promises.

As for the protesters. They're young and idealistic. Dumb really. Have any of them done jury, you know some shit in life is REALLY unfair. I mean...TERRIBLY unfair. O.J. was freed, you assholes. So don't march in the street disrupting traffic (my massive pet peeve). You guys are just pissing more people off and sending a zero to message to no one that will listen to you. Here's the logic you have to face, IF you feel the system has failed you, why would you expect the system to fix it?

How Do I Explain To My Kids...

..this scenario seems to be coming up a lot.
I was talking to my neighbor one day, and he's a insane right wing jerk who hates everyone. Like me.  Except for the right wing thing. Anyway, he told me how much he HATED Ronald Reagan. Yes, the actor...I mean President Of The United States. Back then Ronnie was hated by his own party apparently. I didn't know shit about that, since I was under the double digit mark in age. All I knew...the great times. Playing baseball without a care in the world. Drinking water from the garden hose. Going to the community pool. Night Ranger. Banana boards and Susannah Hoffs.
All we saw was a dude who looked like Big Boy and shook a lot when he talked. Gave me the impression we were alright.

I'm not sure if Ronnie was evil or not. I only knew he bought a shit-ton of weapons and bankrupted a communist country, proving gold outweighed lead. So what do you tell your kids about Trump.

my suggestion...don't. Go on living and enjoying life. That part of discussion, they will find out later. Most likely to divide their family. For now...maybe just deal with being a kid.

President Donald Trump

Remember in "Back To The Future"..."Mayor Goldie Wilson....I like the sound of that"
I hate the sound of Pres Donald Trump.
Anyway..my bad. What I really hate...I didn't realize how whiny the people I know on Facebook are. Really..America is stupid? No they're not...they're fed up. Sick of the previous 8 years that wasn't working. You know the only difference between Trump and Obama was...Trump says what's on his mind. Obama, you know he hates Whitey but holds his tongue. Maybe "hate" is too strong of a word. He distrust them. And minority whiners. Which we've proven to be true. Trump is pretty much Lyndon Johnson after Kennedy. Blustery roughneck. But, nothing much will change. Except possibly more assassination attempts. But even then. It'll be funny. Trump is funnier than people expect. People claim him to be the devil, but he is a frat guy. Oh how I loathe them. But he also is more harmless than people are giving him credit for. Maybe not. Fuck...I'm no politician.
What the left didn't see is that no one...likes a snake in the cut. Clintons are too devious for words. Trump is both transparent and annoying, so you sense he's as real as it gets.
Again, people are blowing things out of proportion. It's weird to see Trump president, but so was Reagan. The numbers spoke, and what they said is...they don't like Hillary.

The Election

We have fools for leaders.
And we can now throw ourselves into the pot of jokesters who've gotten this far on sensationalism, moxie and...well, straight up confusion.

I believe the decline was going to be...um...maybe a few decades, but it took one election to truly see the silliness that is the seat of the White House. Unless these two understand the parameters of their nonsense, it's unbelievable either of them still want to hold on to see the victor. Curiosity kills me, but I would never risk the American people to stroke my ego.

And thus...the enemies list will be held by either of them should they win.

This circus will eventually be over, then we can celebrate Thanksgiving (hopefully with as many intact family and friends left). And move forward.

I've said since the beginning..does it really matter who we get? They're both awful human beings.

Middle Age 101

Trust me when I tell you, middle aged women are the cruelest to one another. I was sitting in a bar in Sherman Oaks last night when a pair of middle aged women walked in. One was tall, the other short…both had that use-to-be-stunning quality that too much sun or too much cosmetics and hair stuff broken down. And, obviously, age. They were both still very very pretty women.

Age sucks man. Vanity and age meet somewhere in the middle. Literally, the middle of your gut. These two sat near me, so I had an opportunity to hear their conversation (they were on their way to some social function). I’m not entirely sure who told the shorter one this, but it seems they always gave her the “you would be pretty if you were skinny” line. Which I would assume would be someone close enough to be that rude. Her response, even when she was skinny this person had told her that. Now that moved on to the shorter woman’s daughter who she mentioned was 15. I’ve noticed this too. The daughter of a body conscience person gets really really large. Most likely the times she had to hide food. Or consume a whole bag of something bad to conceal it. Body shaming isn’t working. Though, the deeper underlying issue is self-image.

I wake up dreading the mirror. Every day I have larger bags under my eyes, frazzled hair and a little more paunch. I’m just tired looking. In the cruel world of image making, people speak of image ALL THE TIME. People get self-conscious of every little detail which puts you on edge when anything is mentioned. These things will come from people who are car wrecks themselves. But…hey…push it forward.

And I’m sure it happens in every place in the United States. We’re very shallow people in general. Though much more in Los Angeles than anywhere else (maybe Miami).  My point being, if you are a good person, and you find a good mate, I think these conversations at the bar would be less and less. Women are tough critics. Is why they are the mothers. They see the many angles that life can be harshest. The point is to also show value. I felt bad for this woman who at a certain point pulled out selfies of herself with a skintight dress, clearly not meant for her body (not shaming just pointing out that she doesn’t need to be someone else).

To be happy in your own body, saying your own name and declaring your value, is the ultimate goal.

camera protocol

A lot of cameramen have massive issues with people looking through their viewfinder. I mean...it could get you booted off set. Now that monitors are everywhere...it's not as a big deal. I have no problems with people looking through lens as long as they don't break the gear...I think if people know what we're shooting...we're so much more behind it.

I will say this...I think the biggest problem with people looking through lens on a big dog production is that it underminds the cinematographer. Imagine some dimwit who would question the composition of a famous camerman. Or criticize it. I've seen that! It is ugly. And it mostly is from some arrogant student or newbie who is disgruntled. On our level now...I like it because people get really involved.

Cubs Win World Series!

Actually a few years behind what "Back To The Future 2" predicted. Still pretty eerie.

I actually feel sorry for Cub fans. Their identity was wrapped up in 108 years of futility. Now that's over, what now? Is there newer hope? Not really. It was the unifying thing every Cub fan could rally behind. That they were lovably struggling to get rid of the curse. And interesting thing said to me...the game is more dissected if they would have lost than win. Believe it or not, I think there is value to the tradition of...well...not winning.

Yeah. Call me nuts, but when that chapter closed...so did a lot of...well...longing and hope. Hope is pretty damn big. The fact that they are now off the books for it, means there is very little to look forward to. Think about it...what do they talk about in barber shops, the El or anywhere in that city anymore. The glue that held them together was futility.
I should know...I wouldn't know what to do if Bengals won the Super Bowl. It would be too weird not to hate on them any more. Or feel we are in a brotherhood of...pain and anguish. It's a strange theory.

"Streets Of Fire" (1984)

Even tough guys love musicals. Hence Walter Hill's opus to the 50's. Kind of.

This is the cornball stuff that sticks to your ribs...because it's so earnest in its good-heartedness. And now has gained the cult status which eluded them back in the 80's.
The story is about a biker gang headed by a very grey looking Willem Dafoe. He is, essentially, the monster which takes the princess. In this case, Ellen Aim played by an incredibly nubile Diane Lane. There is no bad angle here. She is stunning and a rock star. Belting out, what sounds like Meatloaf tunes. Which...I later found out was composed by the same guy.
So enter Michael Pare...so heroically named Tom Cody. He is called in to rescue Ellen. Thing is, they have a past, and the guy who hired him is sweet on her.
Alright, forget the plot, this movie is out of control movie making. It is...self admittes by Hill, everything he thought was cool as a teenager. Motorcycle gangs, street fights, old cars, tough guy talk, sexy dames and rock and roll!! Which is why this movie really hits you. It's so innocent and sweet. It's hard to hate
And the musical numbers aren't that memorable except Dan Hartman's 80's hit "I Can Dream About You" which featured another 80's hottie, Joyce Hyser. This movie grows on me because it's so innocent. A self proclaimed "rock and roll fable"
Pare is pretty bad though. His acting is wooden and sounds like he's reading lines. A few months back I met him on a film set. I told him how much I liked "Streets Of Fire" He seemed upset. Maybe hitting him at the wrong time. Or bringing back memories he didn't want ro revisit.
Who is really impressive is Rick Moranis as Pare's rival in love. Not really that big of a competition, but still a sore subject to Pare's tough guy journeyman.
The road awaits for Tom Cody's next adventure. According to lore this was suppose to be the beginning of a trilogy that never materialized. A shame. But understandable.
It takes a while for this movie to hit you in the right place. But this illustrate that movies are emotion, even if your brain realizes how silly the story is.

"Keeping Up With The Joneses" (2016)

I don't even like Zach Galfinakis, so here I am writing a positive review on him AND this flick. It's a mentality stunted movie. Fine. It's got issues, but nothing that any other movie doesn't have.

The story is of Jeff Gaffney. A sad sack of a defense contractor worker. Well...he's in the human resources which we assume means, he knows people. In fact, they repeatedly tell you this. And it pays off when it needs to. This movie isn't about the plot. Nor the story, but of a bored suburban couple desperate for a little change in their life. Enter The Joneses. Tim Jones is played by Jon Hamm, a slick hunky travel writer, whereas his wife is a stunning beauty in the form of Gal Gadot. She is Natalie Jones. The ever suspicious Karen Gaffney, played by balls-to-the-walls Isla Fisher adds the zest to the Dad-joked infected Jeff. She is a sex-kitten...in the past. You think. Or a sweet girl with in a supple sex-kitten body. She is instantly on to the Joneses and drags her hapless husband along.

This movie isn't ground breaking. It's corny at best. And does what it needs to do. Another bygone era slapsticky movie that requires that both parties are fun. And they are. Hamm and Galfinakis have a great schtick with each other. Gal Gadot's sexy spy thing works for her. And her and Hamm's bickering adds a fun levity to the mix. When sophisticated people act goofy, it's always fun.

Look, I have no idea why the immense hate for this movie. Though it does feel underwhelming at the end. You would assume their relationship could last the adventure they've just been through. I had a good time. So that's all that matters.

Psychosomatic Stress

So I've seen the doctor and it seems that they finally can't figure out a damn thing that is wrong with me. All I can think of now is that it's mostly all in my mind not sure what my drama is but it's causing me to have body soreness. And um I've had myself tested so they can't find nothing wrong. A lot of terrible thing that happened to me recently. I have had my car stolen. I'm stressed out about my job not because I'm not confident in what I do but because the management seems to think our depatment is not generating revenue. Which it seems is dead until next year. I think I live in here but I don't know why maybe because I had a lot more confidence when I was younger how I wake up someone reading what is a head I'm not sure there's a lot of things that I could sort of not take into account. Maybe something that I have really come to terms with maybe lot of resentment and anger towards a girl that I used to date I have bad dreams about it no closure the worse I feel like I've lied to get a reaction. I think it's manifesting itself into some sort of anger and pain that I have the inability to feel at this point my body I think is numbing me because it knows that I can't handle it all at once this stems from me stopping drinking. To dull me from the pain of that comfort I once had.

Maybe it's coming all at once I mean it's been 3 years since my last drink. And that pain that I feel right now and that numbness and brain fog I think is as a result of my alcoholism may be fighting back. Not in the physiological way but maybe something I haven't resolved. I think about my ex-girlfriend from college lot and I consider what her life must be like right now I feel sad becausr that was a life that I may have had but I traded it for this life I didn't, I regret. It's taking me a long time to learn it I think that the profession I chose...I've come to regret. I'm not sure people realize how hard it is to come to that conclusion every single time someone questions what I do or how I do it it does put another nail in my choice to be out here I know I said a lot that I've sacrificed a lot to be out here. I just didn't really mentally prepare myself for that great loss. Becky is gone and that's a death in the family I replayed the most comforting moments of my life and the most surest and it all came down to the moment I spent in Maryland I can remember the time where I felt truly loved and the love of a family that I thought I would be with for a lifetime. I've spent a long time trying to figure out why I felt so much pain but that wasn't able to cry or process anything and now it's come to an age where it manifests in physical pain I didn't really think that it was supposed to work like this. I thought I can power through using my mind and my body and my faith I think I spent a lot of time considering that I wasn't the right choice for her and that really hurts because I always thought that people put a lot of faith in me. That some other guy out there got to live the life I left behind. And they're happy and I'm miserable.

I think the same thing happened to a lot of people who have reached stardom they see a lot of people who really adore them and really have faith and hope and love for them but in reality I think it was that person that got away that kills them inside. I must not have come to terms with that yet. Most people just tell you to stop moping about a girl that didn't choose you. They see it as weakness. And the cycle continues.I'm very envious of people who never have to face these demons. Chances are most hide it better.

So I just need to know the core of why. And how. How did my mind make me this sick? How can I repair? How did I get this bad?

"Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children" (2016)

In the latest Tim Burton "I'm really an artist" entry comes a oddball collection of oddball children. Eva Green plays the titular character as some wrangler of children who are broken toys. Much more interesting would be the backstory of these mutants...I mean misunderstood tykes. Instead it's a freak show of Burton's caliber. This story despite the title, isn't about Miss Peregrine or the peculiar children it's about a loser teen living in Florida named Jake (Asa Butterfield) wondering his purpose in life. As if the hands of structure said "Calgon take me away!" Poof the kid is whisked to some far off land to discover the real reason his grandfather had been murdered. Here's a hint: he's the chosen one. Or rather, he gets there in time to attempt to thwart some scientist who botched an experiment.
Along the way, he meets with a big eyed character named Emma. She is played bloodless by Ella Purnell. Her peculiarity is...uh..air. She controls it,sort of. She is full of it which causes her to float, if she didn't have lead boots. Cute enough.
The rest plays out how you think it will. Although, they throw in a very convoluted storyline of having these kids live in a timeloop as to not face the "normal society." I guess there isn't much they could say in terms of time travel, since there is already so much going on. I dunno. Surprisingly dull but if you're a Burton fan, you'll get what you came for.