Filed under Miscellaneous …

Nov 15 2012
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Miscellaneous

Random Ramblings: Black Friday, Breaking Dawn, and The Host

Three Rants for the Price of One

Source: Google Images

Black Friday

Black Friday will be here next week. I’m guessing you already knew this, of course. But for you unfortunate fangirls overseas, this is the time of year – the day after our Thanksgiving – when Americans get up at ungodly hours of the morning, and freeze to death waiting in ridiculously long lines, just to grab a bargain or two for things we most likely don’t need.

Don’t look at me like that, it’s tradition, especially in my family.

The sale papers are read weeks ahead of time; plans are made; items listed, highlighted, and circled. It’s all rather tiring, I admit. You rush through the sliding doors, hoping and praying the other thirty or so people ahead of you don’t want the exact same thing as you. You got there early enough, so it shouldn’t be a problem, but the incessant butterflies – from the cold or your upcoming secret mission (No one really knows) – make you determined to throw and elbow or two, if need be.

For film and TV nerds like me, it’s an especially wonderful time of year. TV seasons usually priced at forty dollars or more suddenly transform into ten-dollar deals. Films you’ve been dying to see or have been waiting to add to your overstocked collection follow similarly, prices falling lower than you’ve ever seen before. Clothes. Electronics. Music. Games. Everything you could ever want or need discounted for a reasonable price. It’s a smorgasbord of sales!

More Random Ramblings After the Cut!

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Oct 23 2012
1 Comment
Miscellaneous

I Won’t Grow Up

“The second to the right and straight on till morning. That is the way to Neverland.”

You’ve taken this journey before; a memory of childhood that has been held close, looked after and kept safe. You know the path by heart. For it is a tale of adventure ingrained into our spirits even still to this day. Over the years, you’ve seen many a variation on the definitive model, be it on the page or theatrical stage. You’ve watched each motion picture adaptation, contemplated each revival. You may have even favored one or two. Yet, few can compare with the unequaled, musically enhanced retelling of the timeless J.M. Barrie classic. Oh, yeah. I said it.

This particular interpretation of Peter Pan – beloved by so many of my generation (and starring the one and only, Mary Martin) – has always been and will continue to be my favorite. Like so many others, the 1960 televised stage-play had been recorded by my parents on VHS when it was re-released in the 80′s. It’s such a part of me now, that if I were ever to watch it without the episode previews for Alf and old Campbell’s soup ads with Jimmy Stewart, I don’t think it would have the same affect.

Be it the mixture of memorable lines from the original J.M. Barrie play and added unforgettable melodies, to the flamboyant charm of Captain Hook (Cyril Ritchard) or forgotten innocence we once knew, what is it specifically that makes this musical rendition of Peter Pan so noteworthy can be hard to pinpoint. I don’t know if it’s the fact that I’ve watched it ever since I was a child, the show itself, or what. There isn’t just one scene or song that make it exceptional, but the entirety of it.

With the invention of the internet, it has been easier to access this rare, long-adored but never forgotten classic of my childhood. Peter Pan is something utterly unique. It stays with you, prompting you to pass down your memories and keep them alive.

From the first time you see Mary Martin flying across your screen – as you sit there in your PJ’s, with your best teddy bear in tow – there is doubt about it, you’re hooked. Subsequently, years after your first viewing, that same enraptured feeling comes upon you. No matter how much time passes, you’ll always remember, you’ll always keep a special place tucked away for the one-of-a-kind composition.

Have you seen this version of Peter Pan? Are you a long-time fan? Which song is your favorite? Do you have a favorite scene or line? What are some of your other favorite, beloved classics? Tell me in the comments!

For more Kim the Fangirl follow the blog on Twitter @kimthefangirl and on Facebook

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Oct 09 2012
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Miscellaneous

Midnight In London?

I Wish I Were British

On Sunday night, as I was watching the second season opener of Upstairs Downstairs, I began to have a miraculous moment of clarity. While I dissected the stylish dialogue, gazed upon the elegant satin gowns, and admired the outstanding archetypal set design, I realized I had a tenacious attachment to all things British. It’s no secret, my love for the English cinema, and consecutive television mini-series and half hour comedies. I’ve stated numerous times my devotion to such things. However, it wasn’t until that moment, I decided I was living the wrong life. I belonged amongst the hustle and bustle of London Town. I was supposed to be wearing the latest fashion, drinking tea at Harrods, and listening to Glen Miller on the gramophone. Yes, I was having a Midnight In Paris moment. After all, how many times had I watched the first thirty minutes of Atonement? Enjoyed the memorable mysteries of Gosford Park?

Countless evenings watching Masterpiece Theatre and my loyalty to British cinema had finally made me believe I was supposed to be living in the 1930′s. The perfected illusion of grace and grandeur has left its mark upon me. Nevermind how disastrous the time was, the fantasy was too hard to resist. The fictional narratives of unrequited love have made it so. The music. The classic couture. The always suited gentlemen. The accents! It’s all very appealing. That is . . . if life were an element of fiction.

I had come to my ultimate conclusion long before Gil had discovered his. These fictional lives we want so much to live are only of value if they stay fiction. We will always dream. We will always imagine another place, another time, no matter where we are. Life is not perfect. Even in fantasy, I’m sure Cinderella finds herself cleaning the bathroom every once in a while. We wouldn’t want our illusions fulfilled if they did not come with the all-inclusive happy ending. Would we?

I will always fantasize about a life I can’t have. I will always have one fictional boyfriend too many. That’s just how it works. Our fanciful desires may never be granted, but it doesn’t mean we can’t still dream. We need these illustrious daydreams to get us through reality. It might be a place, a time. A person, even. Everyone has a preferred destination to escape to. Mine just happens to be in 1930′s London.

By the way, I still wish I were British.

Have you ever had a Midnight In Paris moment? Are you addicted to British cinema and television? What’s your favorite Brit Drama? Favorite Brit Comedy? Have you watched Upstairs Downstairs? Are you in love with a fictional character? Tell me in the comments!

For more Kim the Fangirl follow the blog on Twitter @kimthefangirl and on Facebook

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Sep 27 2012
5 Comments
Miscellaneous

One Lovely Blog

Hi, everyone! This week, the wonderful Peggy Isaacs nominated me for a One Lovely Blog Award. I know, isn’t that awesome? Hold on a second while I give her massive amounts of hugs and thanks. THANK YOU, Peggy!! THANK YOU!!! I order all of you to check out her blog. Immediately. In the meantime, the One Lovely Blog rules state that I must list 7 things about myself and, as is usual, I must pick the next honoree. Choosing to ignore the part where it says I must pick 15 others, I nominate our good friend, Hannah, from Set In Motion. Book nerd and film lover, this Aussie is a fangirl in her own right. Take it from me, subscribe to her blog. You won’t regret it.

As for that other thing . . .

1. John Green is my favorite author and nerd.

2. The Doctor’s Wife is my favorite episode of Doctor Who. Matt Smith also holds a slight edge over David Tennant as my favorite Doctor Who Doctor. What can I say? It’s the bow tie.

3. I’m currently writing a supernatural novella (with zombies!).

4. In middle school, I completely covered my room with pictures and posters of *Nsync. Imagine floor to ceiling Justin Timberlake wallpaper.

5. My favorite song (of all-time) is Come Pick Me Up by Ryan Adams. You can’t go wrong with a harmonica solo.

6. I was a band geek.

7. I have an adorable, mischievous labrador named Blackie. He likes to snuggle.

I’ll see you tomorrow! – Kim

For more Kim the FanGirl follow the blog on Twitter @kimthefangirl and on Facebook

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Jul 16 2012
12 Comments
Miscellaneous

Comic Con 2012 Wrap-Up Extravaganza

The Return of the Nerds

Once again, Comic Con has come and gone, leaving hours upon hours of interviews, sneak peeks, and trailers in its wake. For those who couldn’t attend this year’s event, like myself, I’ve compiled a few highlights, a few of your favorites, so you too can be up-to-date will all the latest from the Con.

Breaking Dawn (Part 2)

Twilight‘s reign over Comic Con has finally come to a close. Sigh. The highly anticipated panel did not disappoint, as fans were treated to Rob Pattinson’s classic one-liners, equal parts awkwardness and hilarity, and seven minutes of the final film. From what I’ve heard, the footage shown detailed the early hours after Bella Cullen’s transformation, including Bella and Edward’s first hunt together, and Bella’s attempts at acting human for the blissfully unaware, Charlie. Unluckily for us, the scenes from the series last installment are unavailable to the rest of us non-con goer’s. However (start getting excited), you can view the rest of the panel right here, right now. Just click on Mr. Pattinson and he will direct you to your new destination. Enjoy!

CLICK FOR VIDEO
Image Source: ROBsessed Blog

More After the Cut!

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Jun 28 2012
7 Comments
Miscellaneous

BLOGAVERSARY!!!

Happy BLOGAVERSARY, Kim the FanGirl!! Commence happy dance!!

Can you believe it? Here we are, two years later. It’s been an incredible and wonderful journey, to say the least. These past two years have seriously surpassed all of my expectations. Who knew my obsession with Florence + The Machine would cause such a reaction? I surely didn’t. And who would have thought two vampire brothers could elicit such intense and equally hilarious feedback from all of you. I never knew. There are hardly any words that could accurately describe how grateful I am to have such amazing readers and commenters. You’re all so awesome . . . come on over and give me a hug! Darn it. And I told myself I wouldn’t cry. 

As you may too have noticed, things look a little different around here. The all new Kim the FanGirl has a new home (http://kimthefangirl.com (You’ll want to bookmark this)) and has been freshened up some. It’s nice and spiffy, isn’t it? I’ve also done some major housekeeping over at Read This! FanFiction. Your favorite one stop shop for all the best fanfic recs has been revamped to include ratings, summaries, and much more. You also won’t want to miss the new Fic of the Week feature. You’re going to love it, I just know it.

While another year of fangirling begins, I hope to be able to write more, bringing you a parade of new and interesting topics for your beautiful brains to consume. In order for me to do that, I’m going to need your help. Here is your mission, if you choose to accept it: tell me, what would you like to see on the blog in the future? More music? Movies? Random rants about random things? I want your input on this. Don’t be shy, speak up. I’d love to hear what you have to say.

Again, thank so much for all your love and support. It means so much. Have a FanGirl kind of day! I’ll see you tomorrow. – Kim

I want this blog to be a place for my fellow fangirls and nerds alike to be able to speak their mind. To talk about things that they love and I love too. (Breaking It Down, 6/28/10)

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Jun 01 2012
4 Comments
Miscellaneous

Kreativ Blogger Award: I Won!

Fellow blogger Emma Meade was awesome enough to nominate me, your local FanGirl, for a Kreativ Blogger Award. Yep. She did. Pardon me while I give her massive amounts of thanks and hugs. THANK YOU, Emma!! THANK YOU!!! I order all of you to check out her blog on supernatural fiction. Now.

In the meantime . . .

The Kreativ Blogger rules say I must: Thank my nominator, provide a link to her blog, list 7 things readers might find interesting about me, and nominate 7 others.

Well, we’re going to do something a little different (Yeah, I’m a bad girl). A while back, Emma tagged me in a little game of questions. Despite the “creative” award, I’m not imaginative enough to list seven interesting things about myself, so I’ll simply answer seven fun questions instead. To bend the rules even more, I’m nominating you, all my wonderful readers. You can answer these same questions, list seven interesting things about yourself, or think up some new questions. They’re probably going to take back my award after this, but let’s just go with it.

1. What book have you read over and over again?

Twilight. New Moon. Eclipse. Breaking Dawn. Can you sense a pattern here and do I really need to explain why? Edward freakin’ Cullen.

2. What song are you listening to right now?

Hmmm . . . at the moment? This instant? No Light, No Light by Florence + The Machine. To which, you are most likely not surprised. I’m completely obsessed with I Never Knew You by Jason Mraz, though. Love that song.

3. What’s your favorite movie of all time?

No. No way. I can’t answer that. Are you crazy? Fine. Here are a few (because I can never choose) of my all-time favorites. Let’s see . . . Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Gone with the Wind, Singing In the Rain, Hot Fuzz. There. Are you happy?

4. Favorite show you’re watching right now?

You mean, despite all the endless reruns of The Big Bang Theory? Okay, easy one. Nothing. Everything is on hiatus! Well, except Mad Men. This season has been spectacular.

5. Who’s your current Hollywood or otherwise famous crush?

*Looks at you blankly* You don’t know me very well if you don’t know the answer to this question.

6. Favorite drink?

Peach-mango iced tea. Yum-O.

7.*NSYNC or the Backstreet Boys?

Why am I even answering this question? *NSYNC. Duh.

Don’t forget to leave your answers to these questions or your own in the comments! I can’t wait to hear what you have to say.

For more Kim the FanGirl follow the blog on Twitter @kimthefangirl and on Facebook

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Oct 26 2010
1 Comment
Miscellaneous

Download This!

Get those headphones ready!

Hey everyone! Since there wasn’t a Press Play Friday last week (Sorry!), I thought it would be nice to give you an extra music fix. Here are a few song suggestions that I feel are “must downloads.” And for this week’s Press Play Friday, I’ll be featuring The Mitch Hansen Band! So please be free to send in any song selections you want me to cover!

Don’t forget I want YOUR music suggestions! You can Tweet, Facebook, or E-mail your suggestions to me. And you can always leave your song, artist, or album suggestions in the comments below!

Download This!:

1.  The End - Kings Of Leon

2. Uummannaq Song – KT Tunstall

Reader Suggestion:

3. Black Wedding – Meg & Dia

Many thanks to Cindy for her artist suggestion!

Which of these songs are your favorite? Love any of the artists above? Have a song, artist, or album you want to suggest? Tell me in the comments!

For more Kim the FanGirl follow the blog on Twitter @kimthefangirl and on Facebook

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Oct 20 2010
2 Comments
Miscellaneous

From Page to Screen

Read this, watch that

Source: Google Images

It’s one of the most highly discussed topics in recent history. It can insight feuds even amongst the closest friends. It is the one question that really doesn’t have a right answer. Which is better? The book? Or the movie?

You’ve heard this discussion too, probably many times. The long hours usually just play out by each side explaining their thinking. Voices get raised and people begin to walk away. In the end, neither side gives up and the topic is unresolved. Does this sound familiar?

The truth is, you really can’t compare the two. They’re two different mediums. Both the book and movie have to be judged separately, because they’re always different. This is what my college minor in film self tells me. In fact, I took a whole class dedicated to the differences between novel and film. Unfortunately, sometimes it’s hard to see it that way.

When any beloved book is turned into a movie, there is always that moment of fright. Will it stay true to the book? What scenes are they going to change? Will it be terrible? It’s a guessing game. If a small amount of the storyline from the book is intact, the film industry see’s it as a successful reimagining of the source material. Which to I say . . . Well I can’t say, because there might be young ears in the room.

Time and time again, I’ve been disappointed in book to movie adaptations. The Da Vinci Code and Twilight seem to be the obvious examples. Both have a blatant disregard for the original novel. Scenes have been added, scenes have been radically changed, and the storylines aren’t parallel to the book. I don’t expect it to be the same (Actually, I do). It can’t be the same. But is it so hard to ask that it stay true to the original source material? I don’t think so.

More After The Cut!

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Sep 29 2010
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Miscellaneous

I Know You’re Fictional, but . . .

Have you met my fictional boyfriend?

I have a confession to make. I’m in love with a fictional character. Actually, I’m in love with several fictional characters. I know the logistics of these relationships don’t exactly add up. They are fictitious fantasies that more or less reside in my mind. However, that doesn’t mean they aren’t real.

Now, I know this is the point where you’re thinking “this chick is crazy.” But, let’s be honest. You’re in love with one, or maybe several fictional characters yourself. You can’t deny it. It happens to all of us. Whether it be a favorite literary character (Edward Cullen) or a TV bad boy (Dean Winchester), there is no denying you haven’t thought about them in a purely indulgent daydream.

Fictional characters are our gateway to having that ideal relationship we all crave for. In these dreams we can be whoever we want. And they can be whoever we want them to be. It’s an ideal situation, really. The fact that we admire, relate to, or just think their plain gorgeous and amazing is only part of it.

What I’m always interested in, is why do we get so attached? Is it the fact that we know no one like them? Let’s face it, I haven’t come across a mega-hot demon hunter or a vampire soulmate, lately. Or is it the fact that they lead more interesting lives? I would give anything to take a ride in the Impala and kill a ghost or two. Maybe knock down a few houses in my spare time.

More After The Cut!

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