Star Wars
Begun, The Social Media War Has
Yeah, I don’t know what’s going on with Twitter these days either. Since Musky took over it seems to be going downhill fast(er). Not that it wasn’t kinda a shitshow before he came along and decided he knew best how to run things. Sure, sparky. How’s that going for you?
Even with the increased bullshit I’ve decided to hang in there and not delete my account just yet. Why? I’m not 100% sure. I guess it’s mostly just habit. I’ve been on Twitter since 2007 and I look at pretty much every day. Not saying that’s a good thing, it’s just a thing that happens.
I also don’t want some chode to come along and take the @ChrisU handle. That’s mine you fuckers. I got it on day one (or day three or at the beginning anyway) and I’m going to hold onto it. Keep your grubby paws off.
So even if I stop going to Twitter and disappear from it entirely, I’ll likely just disable my account and not delete it. That way, it won’t fall into the “wrong” hands and I can always go back one day if things improve. But really, at this point, I don’t know exactly what I’ll do.
Meantime, I’m also making accounts at all the other places people seem to be going. Like Hive, for example. Again, why am I doing any of this? And again, I’m not 100% sure. I enjoy some of the interactions I’ve had online so I guess I want to try to find that positive side of it again . . . if that’s even possible anymore.
I am enjoying Mastodon so far. Sure, it’s a bit wonky and the people running it aren’t always great at communication or tolerance for newbs, but I think they’re trying. I know the attitude has put a few people off so far and that’s not great for potential future community interaction. But everyone is getting used to a new platform and a new system with new rules and guidelines, there’s bound to be some growing pains. Let’s hope they don’t last too long.
I’ll probably hang in at Mastodon for the time being as I’m not having much of a problem figuring out how to make it work or talking to people. So far, everyone has been pretty cool. I’ve tried my best to be nice and people seem to respond in kind.
Don’t be an asshole and maybe people won’t be an asshole to you? It’s so crazy an idea it just might work. I just try to be kind and see what happens. It doesn’t always work out, though.
Some people are just giant dicks for no real reason. Shocking, I know. I tend to just block them and move on. You should try it.
As far as other social media sites go, as I said I’m on Hive now and I even took a look at my old Tumblr to see if that was interesting to go back to. Still looking at that one. I’m also on Instagram, Flickr, my other website, Facebook (yes, I know) and a few others I’ve probably forgotten about. And I’m still doing the podcast every week. You should listen to that, It’s fun.
Of course, I still have this blog you’re reading too. It’s been around longer than Twitter and a lot of other social media sites. Since 2004, if you can believe that. Hey, maybe that’s the answer?
Maybe we should all just go back to blogs. Those seemed to work pretty well for me and a bunch of people I know . . . at least for awhile anyway.
If I’m being totally honest (and why not?) I don’t know exactly what to do. You may have guessed that. I’ve also said it a few times already. Keep up.
Like it or not Twitter is a part of my life, for good or bad. It used to be good but I’ve been on it less and less the last couple years and maybe I should just deactivate it and commit 100% to something else like Mastodon? I don’t like the direction Twitter is going and I don’t know if it can be saved at this point.
Or, maybe it’s time for a total break from social media? That probably couldn’t hurt either. Lots of things to think about, anyway.
If you’ve left Twitter, where did you end up? I’m always interested to hear about other people’s experiences.
No matter where you go, always try to be kind. We need that now more than ever.
Note: The title of this point is not my joke. I can’t remember where I saw it so I can’t give credit. Thank you person on the Internet who said it first. Your sacrifice has not been in vain.
Image: Disney / Lucasfilm
The First 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' Teaser Has Arrived
I’m sure you’ve already watched the teaser for The Last Jedi a hundred times, but I just wanted to make sure. I’ve watched it quite a few times myself. In short, I like it.
It’s a Star Wars movie. Of course I like it. That said, it didn’t have quite the same impact as the first teaser for The Force Awakens did, at least for me. The Force Awakens was the first real Star Wars movie in a long time. A long time.
So, it was more of a big deal to me. And no, I didn’t have the same feelings about Rogue One either. The move itself was okay, but it was hard to make much of a connection to any of the characters and the story was, well, lacking in some areas. I still enjoyed it, but in my mind it’s more of a whimsical diversion and will never be a real Star Wars movie. Fight me.
But The Force Awakens had Han Solo, Luke Skywalker and Princess/General Leia in it and looked, felt and smelled like a real Star Wars movie. So naturally, as those are the characters and story I grew up with and loved since that first dark Valley Circle, CA theater in 1977, those were the characters and story I was, and am, most interested and excited about. I don’t see that changing any time soon.
Don’t get me wrong, I like the new characters, especially Rey and Poe. And perhaps if I was seeing these movies for the first time as that kid who saw the first Star Wars, I might feel differently. I’m pretty sure I would. But it’s just not the same. It can’t be.
And that’s not to say The Last Jedi won’t be great. I’m sure it will. Once the movie hits and I get a chance to see it, I have no doubt I’ll love it. Will I love it as much as the original trilogy?
Not on your life. And that’s okay. I’ve always got my copies of the original, un-altered trilogy to watch. In fact, I think it’s about time for a rewatch.
'Star Wars' 'Suicide Squad' Trailer
As I’m a huge fan of Star Wars (of course) and also looking forward to Suicide Squad, this mashup trailer by The Usual Suspect amused me quite a bit.
Enjoy.
The History of Cinema in 100 Shots
This video, put together by Editor Jacob T. Swinney, is very impressive. It chronicles the history of cinema, starting with the 1915 film Birth of a Nation, by highlighting iconic shots from 100 films of the past 100 years.
Very impressive indeed. Enjoy this bit of history.
(h/t to the a.v. club)
The 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Supercut Trailer Is Pretty Great
I love Star Wars. You love Star Wars. Pretty much everyone loves Star Wars. And, what’s even better, we live in a world where we can expect more Star Wars movies and will get the first of the new ones this December. Yes, I have tickets. Would you expect otherwise?
No, of course not. Attendance is mandatory.
Seeing as you love Star Wars, I’m sure you’ve watched the new trailer a hundred times already, right? But have you watched the Supercut trailer? The one where all the available footage from the move that’s in the wild has been cut together to make one big, well, super trailer? Maybe not.
So, in the interest of helping you get all the Star Wars you can (at least until December 18th), here it is below. I’ve also included the un-Supercut version (aka the “official” trailer) as well.
'Star Wars', Comics and More
I haven’t been reading very many comic books lately. In fact, I almost never buy single issues of any comic title. I only get trades of titles I’m interested in.
And that list is pretty short these days. In fact, I think it’s pretty much just The Walking Dead on the list right now. Like I said, short.
The reasons for this are several, but the most important of them is the time involved in reading and keeping up with monthly titles and the storage of same. I already have quite a few long boxes of comics in the house (more than quite a few) and am not really looking forward to adding an additional room to accommodate more.
And yes, I know the majority of the titles are available in digital form which would allow me to read them on the iPad or some other tablet. That wouldn’t take up much space at all. But for whatever reason, call me a purist, I prefer my comics in floppy form. I also like reading a newspaper too.
Of course, as is often the case, an exception comes along. Said exception du jour is the new Star Wars comic from Marvel. It started in January with two issues out so far. They are scheduled to come out monthly, at least until the new movie (Star Wars: The Force Awakens if your keeping score at home) is released in December. But I would imagine, if it continues to be such a big success, the comic could go on indefinitely. That would be fine with me.
My one word review of the first two issues is this: awesome. I’m really enjoying it so far and I have no reason to think I won’t continue to do so. The writing by Jason Aaron and art by John Cassaday are both outstanding with Aaron really nailing the mannerisms and speech of the major (and minor) characters.
I won’t get into the story or anything but if you’re not currently reading the Star Wars comic, I highly suggest you do so – especially if you’re a Star Wars fan. I like it so much it was even my pick on a recent episode of The Flickcast. A ringing endorsement to be sure.
I’ve lived a fair amount of time on this planet and have probably become a bit jaded over the years. It’s refreshing when something like a comic book comes along and reminds me me how fun things can be. It’s helped change my attitude for the better, to be sure.
Of course, I can’t forget another reason for my improved attitude: there’s a new Star Wars movie coming out this year. This. Year.
I was pretty sure that was never going to happen. I’m very happy to be wrong.
Yeah, life is pretty good.
David Lynch's 'Return of the Jedi'
You’ve probably heard George Lucas once offered David Lynch the job of directing Return of the Jedi back in 1981. Lynch, of course, turned it down and the movie went on to be directed by Richard Marquand (at least most of it).
But what if Lynch hadn’t turned it down?
That’s what user C-Spit on YouTube wondered too. But instead of just wondering forever, he did something about it. He made a trailer for Jedi as if Lynch had directed it.
It’s pretty spot on. Enjoy.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PALjbTo1D5U?rel=0&w=560&h=315]
'Star Wars' Visual Effects
I find this shit fascinating. Also, I really think the “old school” method looks better than a lot of the the CG being done these days. Models look more 3D because they are 3D in real space, not created in a computer.
Of course, I also still often write with a pen or pencil on actual paper, so what do I know? Well, something at least. I know what I like.
Anyway, check out this great video and learn all about stop motion, blue screen and more of the tricks of the trade that helped make Star Wars, Empire and Return of the Jedi the classic movies they are.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIlYk7KQe-s?rel=0&w=560&h=315]
All the Extra 'Return of the Jedi' Footage In One Place
This has been going around the Interwebs for some time now but I thought I would just put it here also for easy findability. Yeah, I know, that’s not even a word. So?
As I always say, if you don’t like the way I say things here, you are free to go elsewhere. No hard feelings. However, I do hope you’ll stay and try to be tolerant when I make words up. It’s all in fun, after all.
Okay, now go enjoy some RotJ extra footage.
[youtube www.youtube.com/watch
The Original 'Empire Strikes Back' Teaser Trailer
If you saw this teaser trailer for The Empire Strikes Back today, I wonder, would it make you excited for the movie? Trailers sure have come a long way in the last 30 + years.
Of course, filmmaking has also come a long way too, so maybe that has something to do with it. Still, seeing things like this is great fun and takes me back to easier, carefree times when I was just a kid excited to see movies.
I try to recapture those feelings as much as a can, but it isn’t always easy. Life intrudes and the demands on “adults” can often stifle those feelings. But that doesn’t mean I’ve given up. Not by a long shot.
Anyway, here’s the trailer.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omcxaMEGha0?rel=0&w=420&h=315]
LEGO Super Star Destroyer Timelapse
I’ve been into LEGO since before it was cool. Back when the blocks were bigger and they only had a few basic colors. In fact, I still have some of my original sets of blocks. One day I will get them out, take a few pics and post them here. But that’s for another day.
Moving on I’m also, surprise, a big fan of Star Wars. Or, in this particular case, The Empire Strikes Back. I’ll wait while you recover from the shock of that revelation.
So, when these things are combined, as they are in this pretty awesome video, I take notice. What is this video you may ask? Well, it’s a timelapse recording of Jeff Needles, who works at TWiT, assembling a LEGO Super Star Destroyer.
I think it’s pretty cool. Perhaps you will too.
Now to scrounge up an extra $300 to get one for myself.
A Few Interesting Things For a Friday
It’s almost the weekend. Pat yourself on the back for making it this far. It’s been an interesting week for sure.
But let’s put all that aside for a minute and take a look at some fun things for a Friday. Next week we can all go back to the usual BS.
Don’t worry, it will still be there. Promise.
First up is the cool LEGO Star Wars Ewok Village Set (pictured above). Sure, I felt the same way about the Ewoks as you probably did, but this is still pretty cool.
In more LEGO news the company apparently doesn’t want to rest on its laurels by having the worlds biggest LEGO space ship. They also want to build the ultimate LEGO house. Sure, why not?
If you like comics as I do, you may want to, occasionally, read them on your iPad. But what’s the best app to accomplish this? Well, the gang at Lifehacker recommends Comic Zeal. I like it, but as it’s only for non-DRM comics, I also use the Comics app from ComiXology to read my Marvel, DC and other publisher’s stuff.
With Apple’s WWDC coming up next week, there’s lots of speculation as to what the company may announce. I think we’re going to see iOS 7, a new Pro desktop, maybe a new laptop and a new music streaming service, but what else? Wired has the full compliment of predictions. We’ll know if any of us are right next Monday.
Finally, are you a science geek? Or perhaps you have a child (or two) that needs to learn the periodic table of the elements? Well, what better way than with a music video. Watch and enjoy. You just might lean something. I did.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUDDiWtFtEM?rel=0&w=525&h=295]
Happy weekend.
Over 1000 Behind the Scenes Photos From the 'Star Wars' Trilogy
The internet can be home to some pretty amazing things. Sure, there’s also a lot of porn too. Fortunately, the worthwhile bits outnumber the naughty ones.
A prime example of this is Imgur user JoinYouInTheSun who’s taken the time and made the effort to assemble over 1000 behind the scenes photos from the original Star Wars trilogy. As someone who grew up with this first (and some say only) trilogy of movies, these images brought back a lot of wonderful memories and were great fun to look at.
In fact, I liked them so much I clicked through each and every one of them. Slowly.
If you’re a Star Wars geek like I am, you’ll understand.
Here’s a couple more. Head over to Imgur for the rest.
'The Empire Strikes Back' Is 33 Years Old Today, So How About Some Bloopers?
It should come as no surprise to anyone that I am a huge fan of the original Star Wars trilogy. In fact, I’m such a fan that I know The Empire Strikes Back was released 33 years ago today. Yes, I was there to see it on opening day.
Although, opening day was actually the second time I had seen it. The first time was at a press screening a few weeks earlier my Mom had won tickets for by listening to the radio all day while I was at school.
Do I have a cool Mom or what?
I still have that press kit somewhere with all the awesome black and white photos from the movie. Must dig that up someday soon.
To commemorate this milestone in history, here’s some bloopers for the first (and only good) trilogy. Enjoy.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e_XgTyBzWZ0?rel=0&w=420&h=315]
Geek vs. Nerd
Let this handy chart help you decide. Nerd? Geek? Maybe both? Let’s see.
(h/t to @e2thej for the link)
'Star Wars' In the Kitchen
To be clear, I don’t cook very many things and I don’t think I’ve ever baked. However, seeing these may cause me to start.
In short, these are pretty awesome. Check out all the possibilities right here.
All Six 'Star Wars' Movies at the Same Time
Yep, you read that right. Someone went to the trouble to put all six Star Wars movies together in the same screen and run them at the same time. To be honest, I don’t know if I love this or hate it. Maybe a bit of both.
I do know I’ve got a headache from watching it. Enjoy and you’re welcome.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOLqGxuvf08?rel=0&w=525&h=295]
How to Teach Your Unborn Child About 'Star Trek'
Geeks/nerds out there expecting a child in the near future, this video is for you: How to Teach Your Unborn Child About Star Trek. That’s right, it’s never too early to start teaching your child the important fundamentals.
Well, you might want to wait until they actually have ears and can hear (about 20 weeks or so). But then, get to it.
If I ever have children (hey, you never know), in addition to Star Trek, I will also be teaching them about Star Wars during the all-important internal gestation period. This will, of course, inevitably lead to many enjoyable Star Trek vs. Star Wars debates.
That does sound like fun. I may have to work on that.
[youtube www.youtube.com/watch
(h/t to Dr. Tom Mahoney for the link)
Some Useful and Interesting Things For A Friday
Hey, it’s Friday. Congrats, you made it through another week! I’ve had a fun week (more on that below) but, as usual, I’m glad it’s Friday and the week is over.
Although, knowing me as I do, I’m pretty sure I won’t be taking the whole weekend off or anything. Much too much to do, especially with the new project and knowing we’re going to be moving again in a few months.
But that’s later. Now, sit back, relax and enjoy another edition of Useful and Interesting Things.
• My pal Matt Raub and I are back doing a podcast for The Flickcast. I’m very happy about it and you can listen to the brand new episode which kicks off season two right here.
• Confused about who’s who and who’s related to who in the Star Wars universe? Perhaps this handy chart will help.
• I know, you’re still sometimes having trouble with well-known punctuation like the comma “,” or the semi-colon “;” but that hasn’t stopped some enterprising individuals from coming up with 8 new punctuation marks to surprise and delight you.
• Feeling anxious or nervous? Lifehacker has you covered on how to beat it. No, alcohol or other controlled substances are not involved, sorry.
• If you make coffee at home and ever do a Pour-Over, you need a Hario V60 Power Kettle
• Angry, sad, happy, undecided, indifferent about the end of Downton Abbey season three? Perhaps these tidbits about season four will help you feel better/worse/whatever?
Finally, a here’s a little video I like to call Lego Michael Jackson. Coincidentally that’s pretty much what the person who made the video calls it too.
Plus, in case you haven’t seen it, here’s a little bit of Alison Brie and her freestyle rap skills. This video is here mostly so I can put a photo of her at the top of this post. Yes, she’s eating ice cream, so?
What, you don’t like ice cream or something?
[vimeo 60169112 w=525 h=395]