Arizona Livin'

Entertainment #3

2010-02-08T14:13:00.002-07:00

...what? You thought I was gone? Silly Internet folk, Trix are for kids! (Yes, that did seem a lot more witty in my mind, really.)

Wow, first of all, let's catch up. I'm still the same me that I introduced months back. But in the time that I've disappeared, my family has arrived and we have moved into our current residence in the Laredo Ranch community! More on that to come as we're still settling in some. Also, exploration will continue when possible. Arizona Livin' has a lot to see and share with the world outside! Stay tuned for future videos and places to go.

Now, let's get back into the swing of things with something that I promised back in August. We're going to keep the first blog post in ages simple and review - drum roll please...I said drum roll please!! (sigh) - Batman: Arkham Asylum!

The crowd wonders, "Well, Faith, why in the world do you have the PS3 boxart there? Back in August...!" Yes, I know. Me darlings, I'm going to preface this by saying I've gone to the dark side and done something that I swore I never would: I bought a PS3. I'm very sorry, Microsoft, but it just wasn't working out between us. Sony was smart enough to grab the Joker gameplay, and I go anywhere my sweet Mistah J goes. You knew that when we first met. My only regret is that I'm dearly going to miss my beloved Fable series.

Anyway, enough of the sweet sorrow parting. Time to address the matters at hand: Did the game live up to the hype and expectations? Have Batman and his glorious Rogues finally been redeemed in the World of Gaming? Is it worth shelling out it's current price value of $50 bucks?

...you were expecting an answer right away? And ruin the surprises? Hell no, keep reading!

Story/Gameplay

Game written by Paul Dini: I still believe that this was the saving grace for Batman this time around. Mark Hamill himself was happy back in the day when he found out a B:TAS episode was a Dini script. The fact that Eidos/Rocksteady managed to get Dini onboard for B:AA was the breath of fresh air after a rainstorm. I am a fan of Dini's work, the vast majority of my favorite episodes being written by him. Hell, he even made an episode of the recent The Batman series bearable. (Of course, he had to sacrifice Harley's backstory to do it, but for the sake of point, we'll stick with 'bearable.')

The premise of course is simple. A few months after the Joker's last Arkham escape, Batman has finally wiped the Gotham streets clean by returning the murderous psychopathic clown to his home sweet home-away-from-home. Little is the B-man expecting the surprise that awaits when they arrive. With some help on the inside, the Joker has orchestrated a grand homecoming, which results in Bats' greatest threats taking over the asylum, all ready to give him the night from hell.

In the midst of this, we have the "Project: Titan" subplot. Newcomer-character, Dr. Penny Young, Head of Arkham Research, has been developing a formula derived from Venom, the steroid-esque drug that powers infamous rogue, Bane. Titan is a bajillion-and-one times more powerful, however, unfortunately to the point of a nasty side effect: turning the test subjects into huge hulking monsters! (Yes, it's gross to watch. We're talking spine-splitting-through-skin gross.) Of course, this means that the Joker wants it to create a monster army that will put Gotham City in ruins. It's your job as Bats to not only survive, but also make sure Titan production is shut down before Joker reaches that point.

Both plots are well handled, balancing out to keep your head in the game. Although, they make gameplay very linear (i.e. do A to get to B, B to get to C, etc). For a more casual gamer like myself, that is perfectly fine. Some gamers however prefer a more open-world plot that lets the player decide what they want to do next. That style was touched briefly upon here with the Riddler side quests that you complete to get more "experience points" for character upgrades. But even that is more linear, making it where you can't get certain Riddler items without specific gadgets you acquire throughout the game.

One thing though that they did get completely right was the perfect blend of Batman's combat skills and sleuthing abilities. The latter has always been missing from previous games, not offering the complete experience of being the "World's Greatest Detective." Here, you get the full package. Going up against armed goons is suicide, plain and simple, and there are rooms that are filled with them, forcing you to be more invisible and figuring out the best way to take them down before they see you. There is also a "Detective Mode" option for those moments when you just can't figure out what to do. Hitting the button to go into this mode sets off a program in Batman's cowl that lets you see hints, which thugs are armed and not, etc. It's been only the biggest help for this player!

The story's weakest link...is the ending. Because some people who may be reading this are currently playing the game along with me, I will leave much "SPOILER!" space so that they may scroll ahead and skip this part until we finish. (Mom, this means you. No peeking!)

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(...diamond motif...Harley...get it? C:)

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SPOILER: With all the rogues locked up and defeated, you finally have a chance to go up against the big J-man himself. However, while we all know the Joker is surprisingly very good in hand-to-hand combat, apparently the game developers or whoever decided he wouldn't be able to match against the Bat. (I guess they missed the grand fight on the train in Mad Love, among others.)

This being said, following an onslaught of Blackgate thugs and two Titan goons, the Joker injects both himself and Batman with the Titan formula. Batsy only has enough antidote for one person, and uses it on...himself. I stared at the screen for so long, my dears, saying "...WHY?!?!?" So there you are, helpless against a Titan powered Joker who can kill you with one hand swipe, fighting yet more Blackgate thugs. The only way to defeat Titan Joker is to avoid him, wait til the arena is clear, pull him off his grand stand where he's showing off for the masses as you fight goons, and when he's stuck in the floor boards after the pull, beat the living hell out of him. Repeat two more times, and you're done.

Because I don't know whose idea it was more - developers or Dini - the fault unfortunately has to rest on both. Not only does this feel like a very "video game" ending, but it really brings the Joker to shame. He isn't the single greatest threat to Batman for nothing, and he doesn't need to shoot himself up with a steroid to win. He fights dirty, for crying out loud! He does whatever it takes to win, sure, but overall, he says no to drugs. Like many things, they're beneath his genius, a cop out solution to the problem. There is nothing remotely funny about it. Not to mention, Titan Joker is ugly enough to scare away even his dear Harley Quinn, I'm sure. Thankfully she's safe and locked up in her cell over in the Penitentiary before she sees this happen.

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END SPOILER!

Other than that minor little detail that many have come to ignore, the storyline is perfect and well-executed. You sit hoping that cutscenes last just the slightest big longer because it feels as though you're watching a movie instead of playing a game. These days, any game to do that is a winner!

Characters/Voiceovers

This goes without saying, but the casting choices in B:AA were top notch pick of the litter. You bring in the likes of Kevin Conroy, Mark Hamill, and Arleen Sorkin to any Bat project and fans are going to cheer. Conroy and Hamill as always were absolutely amazing! Aged some perhaps, but that's just a fact of life, it happens. If you close your eyes, though, you could swear you're watching a brand new B:TAS episode for the first time in years!

The only person I was very let down with was my girl Arleen Sorkin. Her Quinn voice is fine. Not as perky, but that could be an atmospheric choice to match the game's dark ominous environment. However, whether it was an acting choice or a directorial note, her performance during the Harley Patient Interviews while she's still Dr. Harleen Quinzel is disappointing. Quinzel and Quinn, while the same person bodily, are still considered two different character personalities. Harley has to become an entirely different woman when going through that transition from one to the other. When Sorkin recorded her dialogue for Mad Love, she hit the nail on the head. Soft, subtle, professional for Quinzel; perky, naive, 1930s mole for Quinn. In the game, she channeled Quinn the entire time, and the transition that fans know and love was completely lost. Unfortunately, this makes the elation you get from hearing enhanced, updated Mad Love dialogue disappear very quickly after listening to the interviews a few more times.

On a better note, there is a pleasant surprise performance by another B:TAS veteran, Adrienne Barbeau, the voice of Catwoman who joins this cast as Dr. Gretchen Whistler. I didn't notice until a YouTube viewer commented on a video of Harley's first patient interview. "Why is Harley talking to Catwoman and why does Catwoman have an accent?" I thought he or she was nuts until I beat the game and saw Barbeau's name in the credits. Hot damn, she really was talking to Catwoman after all!

Special mention goes to Tasia Valenza and Dino Andrade who play Poison Ivy and the Scarecrow. Upon hearing Ivy speak for the first time, I really had to wonder if it was Diane Pershing, her Animated Series counterpart who I love. Valenza did very well in her stead (despite her seeming to...enjoy her big boss fight with the Bat. Have to wonder, hmm...). Likewise Andrade made the Scarecrow levels all the more tense and edge-of-seat with his eerie, obsessive tones. "You failed; now suffer!" I did whenever I got that game over screen; I really did. Creepy!

Joker Gameplay on PS3

As mentioned earlier, yes, I gave into the hype and got a PlayStation 3, therefore enabling me to download the eight Joker challenge maps. (Yes, just challenge maps for Mistah J - little side levels where you have to defeat enemies around the room, earning bonuses if you complete the specific takedown challenges for each one.)

Let me say, if you are up to a challenge, these levels are definitely for you. Batman has it easy! Higher health bars due to his Kevlar suit (even higher with the Armor suit if you complete the game and obtain it). More gadgets to use against the Joker's goons. Sure, anyone can complete these levels with all that!

Joker, you're not so lucky, and like the character himself, you have to rely on skills and fighting no way but dirty! With no protection, your health bar is minimal and runs out very quickly. Gadget wise, you're also limited. The deadly joy buzzer is there, but only comes up rarely if you perform a takedown. The Joker Toxin/Smilex Gas is the equivalent of Batman's "Cape Stun" attack, only stunning enemies momentarily to get them off your back if you're surrounded. X-Ray glasses act as Joker's Detective Mode, but unlike Batman's, you have to hold the button to make it stay on. Once you let go, it disappears whereas Batman's stays on as long as you need it, no hold neccessary. The only weapons at your command are exploding chattering teeth and a gun that has only one bullet. (You read that correctly, just one. You use it once and then the gun is useless for the remainder of the level. Not cool, but fair, I guess.)

All that said, the levels are a lot of fun, but very, very challenging. I recommend practicing with the Batman maps first before tackling those levels as the Clown Prince of Crime. He only lets the best of the best play for his team, and with these, you'll see why.

Overall, my score for the game is a 8 out of 10. If the ending was handled differently and all voiceacting was up to par, it would be pure perfection.

...but wait...didn't I see...a Sequel is in the works?

Really?! Well, how about that?! The ending does make way for a sequel in a few different ways. All of which I can not say much without ruining it for others who haven't been able to play the game yet.

But yes, as announced at last year's Spike Video Game Awards (in a brilliant introduction worthy of the Joker!), Mark Hamill announced in full J-voice that there was a sequel coming and the trailer was revealed. That of which can be enjoyed right here, courtesy of Machinima.com -

So far, we can only wonder if "Arkham Asylum 2" is going to be just as big and beautiful as its predecessor, but I'm quite positive. Rocksteady has proven themselves worthy of handling the Bat, so as a fan, I trust them explicitly with Round 2. Not to mention with the implied return of Joker and Harley; the hinted appearances of Two-Face, Penguin, and Black Mask; and the possibility of Arkham being moved out into Gotham City itself (chance for open-world?)...well, it could be big!

Right now, it is available for pre-order, although the infamous Release Date Jumping Game is back in play. At this moment, it is expected for January 2011, and currently only on Xbox 360 and PS3. Stay tuned to the blog for updates, 'cause you know I'm ready to give them! In the meantime, go enjoy the trailer one more time at their website, ArkhamHasMoved.com. It's bare bones right now, but no harm in having a bookmark handy!

Faith out C:

AL's Arkham Asylum Countdown - Midnight Release

2009-08-24T08:50:00.002-07:00

Today's Quote: "Welcome to the madhouse, Batman! I set a trap, and you sprang it gloriously!" -- Good ol' Mistah J. =)

Well folks, it's the day before the official release of B:AA, and the more I realize that, the more excited I am. Ever since GameInformer debuted a massive article about it last September, this game has been at the top of everyone's list as all fans went through the up's and down's of gradual released media and multiple release date delays. But after seeing the actual boxes the other day (God bless working at a local GameStop!), it's all very surreal today. Tomorrow is actually happening!

However, for those who have very low patience levels after waiting this long year, check your local GameStops and other stores that carry video games. Tonight at midnight, most will be having a midnight release for the game where you can hold it in your hands nice and early before the public descends on it tomorrow. Best to do so soon, even put a pre-order on it while you still can. This game is highly anticipated, and there's no knowing what will be the case tomorrow! If you can't wait, now's the time to act and guarantee yourself a copy!

If you need help passing the time until midnight however, Arizona Livin' recommends the following:

Enjoy checking out IGN's Arkham Asylum Reader Guide. It gives a complete rundown on the characters appearing in the game, as well as a little history about each. Not to mention, for the readers out there, it offers the best stories to find each character in. Let me tell you, many of them come highly recommended!
Check out the previously released first ten interactive minutes of the game, where you lead Joker down to the Intensive Treatment area. Part 1 and Part 2!
Rent any and every Bat DVD you can find. My personal recommendation: anything with the Animated Series. With Paul Dini's writing, and the talent of Conroy, Hamill, and Sorkin, it's the perfect thing to lead up to playing the game!
As previously suggested by the Reader's Guide, check out some graphic novels at the library, or your local Barnes & Noble maybe! Arkham Asylum: A Serious House on a Serious Earth is a classic I've been told, or for the more lighthearted, Batman: Mad Love has my personal smile guarantee!

Until tomorrow, have a Bat-filled day, and stay tuned for AL's review of the game itself, coming soon! (Read that as when my copy arrives, LOL.) Faith out!

AL's Arkham Asylum Countdown - 3 Days Left

2009-08-22T12:40:00.005-07:00

Today's Quote: "Die, ya big ugly bat!" -- the scary, yet adorable childishness of Harley Quinn.

One of the things that make the Bat tick best is his diverse Rogues Gallery. For me personally, there hasn't been more colorful, menacing, and recognizable villains in an ongoing storyline than here. Even those who aren't fans know Batman and the Joker, and could identify them in a heartbeat. As my brother - a young man who couldn't despise ol' Mistah J any less - has wisely said, "They're like Peanut Butter and Jelly!"

But throughout the years, so many more have come along: Poison Ivy (1966), a plant-obsessed eco-terrorist; Killer Croc (1983), a man turning crocodile due to a medical condition; Bane (1993), the only one to have broken Batman...literally; and Harley Quinn (TV: 1992 and Comics: 1999), the Joker's twisted mole who was his shrink at the asylum. These select few, and other surprise guests, under the Joker's command in B:AA will all be giving Batsy the most horrible night of his life.

Get a glimpse of their new Arkham looks right here in the "Villains Trailer," and be sure to check out the game's official website, http://www.batmanarkhamasylum.com/

'til tomorrow, Faith out!

AL's Arkham Asylum Countdown - 4 Days Left

2009-08-21T09:15:00.002-07:00

Cover art © WB/DC/Eidos/Rocksteady

Batman hasn't had the best history when it comes to games. Sure, there are notable exceptions, but overall, games and the Bat just never mixed. This Tuesday* that all changes as the highly anticipated Batman: Arkham Asylum hits the shelves!

The creatives over at Eidos and newcomer Rocksteady have put all their blood, sweat and tears into making this game what every Batfan and gamer alike have been waiting for. The storyline is written by the respected veteran writer Paul Dini, whose work includes Batman: The Animated Series and many different Batman comic book incarnations. Dini is also responsible for bringing the loveable yet very insane Bat-villainess Harley Quinn into the big picture, something that this writer thanks him for very much. =)

Also very worth a mention is the wonderfully chosen voice cast. Three voice legends and fan favorites from B:TAS were cast for the game. Kevin Conroy is once again Batman (and will also be appearing in DC/WB's DTV movie Superman/Batman: Public Enemies next month). Mark Hamill brings his amazing, very recognized voice back one final time as the Joker. Arleen Sorkin returns as Harley Quinn, and wonderfully adapting her to the game's dark, gritty tone.

Overall, this is really looking to be Batsy's redemption in the video game industry. So far, the game has managed to receive incredible scores from various critics, and is definitely a possible contender for Game of the Year, as far as I'm concerned. So follow along the next few days, and if you haven't already placed a pre-order, go do it! The game will be available on Xbox 360, PS3, and PC. If you really can't wait, check your local GameStop and other stores to see if they are participating in the Midnight Launches for the game.

Today's Quote: "I am vengeance. I am the night. I am Batman!" Hear Conroy's awesome voice say it here:

* - Tuesday August 25th is the release date for the US only. Releases Friday August 28th for the UK and elsewhere.

That Time of Year...

2009-07-25T11:26:00.002-07:00

And I don't mean Christmas.

It's monsoon season, been such for a while. Rain's been pretty nasty when it decides to show up (although so far, nothing beats last year's rain, -shudder!-). This is what I had outside my window though, not pretty. That bobble-head tree scared the beejeebus out of me when I first saw it.

Voice Acting #1 - Friendly Neighborhood Spider-man & Old Bats

2009-07-10T18:09:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, many months ago - not really, but I digress - I had a dream to be a part of fan films. Being the Batman fan that I am, when the opportunity arose, I seized it. Since then, my new favorite hobby has been doing voice acting. So far, I have two final credits to my name (three if you count having been two different girls =)).

Batman: The Dark Knight Returns
My big debut as the female news anchor. Based on the famous graphic novel by Frank Miller, this incredible fan trailer was animated by Jared Kowis (Kowis Animation), who I still must owe some percentages to for being my best 'agent,' LOL. He really did a wonderful job that still leaves me in awe and I'm very honored to have been a part of it.

Amazing Fantasy #15: The Origin of Spider-Man
Part I and Part II
My newest performance, this time on the Marvel side of the Fan Film tracks. An amazing fan animated motion comic about the first appearance of Spider-Man, presented by JWB Studios. In this recently debuted project, I play two girls who go to school with Peter Parker, both turning him down and teasing his geeky appearance. Having been the teased kid at school, I think I've officially come full circle, LOL. This project is awesome to watch, and both parts come highly recommended.

Hopefully there is more on the horizon, and you know that Arizona Livin' will be the first to get anymore news if they do. Til then, enjoy. Faith out. =)

Caption Game - My Desktop Wallpaper.

2009-07-10T16:51:00.002-07:00

(Click thumbnail for bigger version.)

Of all the new screenshots for Batman: Arkham Asylum released today, this is my fave. The question is, who can do the best caption? This just begs to have some dialogue, just for some laughs. Ready set go!

If you're looking forward to this game as much as I am, be sure to check out the newest trailer, also newly released today!

Happy 4th from Arizona Livin'!

2009-07-04T11:40:00.002-07:00

Holidays lately seem like any other normal day, and maybe for some people they are. I understand that not everyone celebrates Christmas or Easter, and that's fine. That's why we live in this country.

Speaking of which, there is no reason for anyone not recognizing a day like today, Independence Day. This, my fellow Americans, is a federal holiday, a national holiday. You live here, you celebrate it. Because of this day back in 1776, you are able to live here and make decisions about how you want to live or what you want to believe in. Coming here from another country doesn't make a difference. Unless you are Native American, all of our ancestors did so at one time. You live here now, and that's what matters. There are no excuses.

On a lighter note, while driving home with my aunt earlier today, I saw the only people who could be working today doing so on a corner in our community. Nothing screams good ol' Americana like a lemonade stand. For the first time in my life - that's 25 years worth - I saw a real tried and true stand on the corner. It was without a doubt the most awesome sight I have seen in a while. Of course, these kids modernized it into a Lemonade Walmart, LOL. Not only could you get lemonade - original and pink! - but they were also selling brownies, donuts, and those little magnets made out of beads. It was priceless. Really should've asked for a picture, but the internet's a crazy place. =) It just made me smile to see that not everything nice and priceless has become extinct these days, especially on a great day like this. Not to mention, it proved that here in Arizona, you really can buy just about anything on the roadside, LOL!

As for me, I plan on watching my favorite American icons (Justice League, yay!), seeing if the movie version of 1776 is on as usual, and hopefully finding a fireworks display tonight. Heard about a few, so here's hoping!

Happy 4th everybody! Faith out. =)

Note: Flags at the top of this post are courtesy of 3DFlags.com, for all your animated flag needs. =)

Meet the AZ Famille - Jace the Cat

2009-06-25T14:02:00.003-07:00

This here is Cammie's adorable cat, Jace. Who apparently has a big common interest as his Jersey cousin, my cat Stitches. I walked into my room today to find Jace turning a box into a playset, and it just reminded me of my baby back east.

Notice his laid back appearance on camera? That's because he's already a talented young actor. He was also the co-star of the short film: "Joey's New Playmate."

WARNING: Video contains adult language. Just a disclaimer for the kiddies.

Afterwards, be sure to check out the outtake reel! Definitely fun!

Entertainment #2

2009-06-23T15:18:00.004-07:00

Instant Moral of the Story - "Inaccurate teasers, trailers, and advertising can make you miss out on a good film."

I've probably not seen many movies that I would otherwise enjoy because of what the marketing team decided to show the masses. I'm very glad that Gran Torino crawled across enemy lines, and convinced my mind to say "yes" for a viewing. I probably would've snubbed what I thought was an "all-action, no plot" film.

But like it's main character, Gran Torino is a beautiful story of family and sacrifice beneath a tough, gruff exterior.

Walt Kowalski (Clint Eastwood) is a Korean veteran in the midst of dealing with the loss of his wife, his estranged relationship with materialistic family members, and a Korean family for neighbors. He tries to distance himself from the world, going about his life with just himself and his loyal dog. He's your perfect image of a mean old man on the porch with a shotgun. But in a moment of what I blame to be deep set morals, he helps the neighbor's daughter and changes both his and their lives for the better.

What I was most impressed with overall was the plot. Again, marketing did nothing to help. In times such as these, the country really needs to see a good, solid story of human emotion overcoming the worst. All key characters in this film are having troubles in some form, and the way they ultimately come together despite prejudices and conflict is inspiring.

Everyone knows how I feel about realism, but it helped the story instead of hurting it this time around. Nothing about this story felt remotely like fiction, which made the senses of hope and overcoming obstacles all the more believable. Letting things stand in your way is easy - the death of a loved one, trying to fit in, finding who you are and peer pressure. The difficult part is beating the odds stacked against you. While some of the solutions portrayed in the film come across as harsh at times, it still shows that nothing is impossible, and things always happen for a reason.

Characterization is a strong point in this film, particularly for Eastwood's character. Walt reminds me of a crude, asshole version of my grandfather (who was the most kind, genuine person I knew). He has his way of thinking and views of a world against him. Yet, he manages to touch the lives of people willing to get passed the harsh facade. He doesn't take shit from anyone, will tell you like it is, and still manages to point you in the right direction.

Which leads me to Thao, the neighbor's son. After Walt catches the boy trying to steal his most prized possession - a 1972 Gran Torino - for a gang initiation, Thao's family makes him work for Walt, as is a traditional Hmong penance. Walt works Thao like a dog, and in the end, shows him how to grow up and become a good man. I won't give away the ending, but putting it vaguely, Thao truly earns Walt's respect and becomes a man he never thought he could be.

There's only so much that I can put into words, as each moment of the film culminates into quite an impressive finale. But if you were like me, put off by the gritty action, I recommend that you put that aside and check out Gran Torino. You will not be disappointed.

The Hero of Time by BMB Finishes

2009-06-19T13:09:00.002-07:00

I'm going on a job interview today. I need happy, pretty vibes that hid during that previous post below. Funny thing is, the interview's at GameStop and this slightly ties in!

This is a film based on my favorite game series, "The Legend of Zelda," by the independant company BMB Finishes. Been following this gem since I first happened upon the trailer on the almighty YouTube. Been dying to see it, but there's currently only one way possible to do so: convincing them to do a showing in your town. The film already premiered in Atlanta two weeks ago, and before they release it online or DVD, they want to show it off in a few more cities.

Come on, Arizona! Get them to premiere it in Phoenix or somewhere inbetween where we can all be happy. There's got to be Zelda fans out there in this vast open desert mountain land! =) It's as simple as signing up here on their HoT SPOTS page. This is a way for them to see where the most demand is. Fight for us, get Hero of Time here! Look at that trailer again to convince yourselves! Yay Zelda!

Faith out =)

Never Talk Politics and Religion...

2009-06-19T10:35:00.002-07:00

...I guess it had to happen sooner or later.

I'm not a fan of politics, people. I never have been, and never will be. I registered to vote simply to have valid reason to be pissed off in the people's eyes. Think the only thing stopping me from being any kind of radical is the fact that I have parents who raised me with a good heart, a sound mind, morals and yet still allowed me to have a big mouth. =)

I was also told never to lie, and have learned why the hard way. So I just don't see the point in trying to figure out "Who's going to lie to me less?" It's not a stereotype; it's fact. People were very happy to see the first African American president in their lifetime. I'd be more proud to see the first politician of any race and creed who tells the whole truth before I die.

The good ship Obama's been hitting one too many bumps for me to stay on the boat. I sat and watched his inauguration speech just like the rest of America did, hoping against hope that he would mean every word. So far, he's let me down at least three times, and he's only been in office for 6 months. F***.

1) Childishly getting pissed off with a news channel. Christ, really? Just about every politician before him has had problems with the media. Did they get whiny about it? That's a risk of living in a country that has freedoms of speech and press. We're allowed to give our opinions, right wrong or indifferent! This is the very definition of nonsense, sorry. You're in the spotlight, expect people to have opinions about you and don't hate on the negative.

2) Defending the Defense of Marriage Act. This was brought to attention by a dear friend. Yeah, I'm straight, but I do have gay friends and family. I was raised in a country that, above all, was taught to believe in equality. I believe in a loving, caring God who has a very bad press rep from bible pushers who toss the word of MAN around like it's going out of style. Laws like DOMA that allow states to not recognize a marriage of love simply because they are the same gender is wrong. President Obama is proud to call himself a black man; his race was treated horribly for years. Who the hell is he to sit there and defend something like DOMA when it encourages the very same prejudices and hate that his race endured? He had gay and lesbian support from day one; he promised to help them get what they deserve! This is bull shit, plain and simple. The man is being a hypocrite, and it's not fair.

3) Yeah, so how about those ice storms in Kentucky a few months back? ...what? You never heard of them? Well, hot damn, they were pretty damn destructive, like Katrina was. My family there was without power for quite a long time. ...what? Obama wasn't there? He was having a Superbowl party?? Oh how silly of me, didn't mean to interrupt that. I thought it was only in high school that jocks get all the love over arts and education! Forgive me, I didn't mean to be so stupid...

...and yet...George Bush was ridiculed for not getting down to New Orleans quickly enough. Hmm, that's strange. At least he had the dignity to show his face, therefore making the media more aware of the situation. President Obama didn't even show up, and the media barely - if any - talked about Kentucky. Does that really seem fair to you?

-sigh; checks the calendar- Well, we have 3 1/2 more years of this. There's always room for improvement, and God, I hope he takes advantage of it. I've finally got the hell out of Jersey; don't want to see it all be for nothing if the country goes to shit. I want to see the change that he promised, but I'm not known for being patient. Still, I got my comfy chair and popcorn right here. Anybody want some? -waits for it, munching away-

Entertainment #1

2009-06-18T17:47:00.003-07:00

Funny thing happened on the way to Arizona...well, not that funny, as it's part of my every day routine. Barnes & Noble is like a second home, something that hasn't changed in the coastal transfer. The only difference is that I haven't actually bought anything from our local B&N just yet. Anyway, I'm off track now.

I like to have a few books on me to make time pass on various trips, and this one was no exception. One of my last "final splurges" was the newest novel about my favorite DC Comics' boys, Batman and Superman. We're talking actual novel, not the graphic kind that is more common to Bats and the Big Blue Boy Scout.

Ever since reading the novelization of Batman's No Man's Land series - written by Greg Rucka - I really enjoyed having a book about these characters without images right in front of me. While I love the graphic novels, having a novel is a whole different day at the ballpark. With one of these in hand, you're forced to come up with your own imagery in your mind, which is always a lot more exciting. Enemies & Allies was no exception.

As both a reader and a blossoming Batman fan returning to her fandom roots, this book impressed me. In terms of writing, Kevin J. Anderson did a remarkable job in blending both history and the fiction. Reading his author blurb on the back cover, he doesn't say whether or not he's actually written any comics pertaining to the characters. But if he hasn't, he certainly fooled me. DC's characters have so far been the most complex bunch I've seen. They've been around for years, with so many different writers taking a shot at them, and therefore, there are tons of different versions and origins that have been explored. It can be quite intimidating, but Mr. Anderson handled them like a pro.

What really impressed me was the setting, and how it was used with the characters. This particular story has been set during the 1950s, around the time of the Cold War. In the 50s and the 60s, the media was handled much differently than it is now, especially when it came to comic book heroes and other children oriented entertainment. Everything on television that wasn't a news broadcast was happy-go-lucky and "Everything is wonderful! Let's sing a song!" Batman, Superman, et all were the Superfriends instead of the more serious Justice League of today. I'm still surprised to this day that Adam West, our 1960s Batman, was even aware of his dark and gritty backstory. The gray plot of upholding justice as a vigilante following the death of his parents doesn't necessarily fit in with the solid black & white, good vs evil view from the era. The average reader would almost expect a similar interpretation to be done here in order to fit the time frame.

All I can say is, this isn't your Adam West and George Reeves interpretation, kiddos, not at all. Mr. Anderson nicely brings the modern day views beautifully into a 50s setting. Bruce Wayne isn't sitting there with Clark Kent going "What do we do now, Superman?!"

The pair's first meeting is outside the Luthor Mansion just after Batman escapes with important information. Superman intervenes, and sees Batman as a thief. Batman wonders if Superman in actuality works for Lex Luthor. There is uncertainty, debate over whether or not one can trust the other. Not until later chapters do the heroes meet again and make their reluctant decisions to trust each one another. There is the familiar hesitant friendship that we see today, due to their contradicting views on justice and the law. But at the same time a mutual respect for the other's beliefs briefly causes them both to think twice. All this set in a believable 50s era, it's wonderfully well done.

My other favorite part about this novel is the portrayal of Superman. In this day and age when realism and believability is at the forefront, I have seen Clark get put on the back burner, deemed "too perfect." Here's a man who has god-like powers due to his Kryptonian heritage. His only weaknesses are coming in contact a mineral from his home planet and magic. On top of that, he's perceived as such a goody-two-shoes that he annoys some of the modern-day fans who prefer dark, gritty, gray heroes like Batman. With my frustrations about placing realism on comic book characters and the like, obviously I think it's very unfair.

But in response to that, I suggest heavily paying attention towards the end of the book, specifically Chapter 63. Kal-El [Superman] decides to push his limits. He soars towards the very edges of space to see exactly how human-like he is. He's perfectly fine, the dangerous atmosphere that can kill a human being not bothering him whatsoever. In fact, he's using the sun's rays to recharge himself considering the excitement of the story's battle finale. Then, Mr. Anderson wrote these words:

"He was an alien, after all. No one had been here to teach him. He had no comrade to give him advice, no other Kryptonian to tell him about his heritage, his strengths and weaknesses [...] Kal-El might have been different from them...but all people were different from one another. Yet even with those differences, they all shared a common bond. And Kal-El--Superman--would always stay there to protect them."

How many people have found themselves in the same situation? The kid in school who was teased because he didn't fit in with the crowd. The new neighbor from out-of-town who is still learning about their new surroundings. The adopted or foster children who aren't sure if they should try to fit in to their new families. Hell, I fit into the first two categories. That's as real as it's going to get, and I thank Mr. Anderson for bringing that aspect of Superman's character into the light. Beneath the seemingly perfect exterior, he has hard times just like the rest of us. The difference is, he is the man that many people should aspire to be: good, honest, and brave.

Enemies & Allies comes completely recommended, even for non-comic book fans. If you have any chance to pick it up, do so.

Faith out. =)

Things I've Learned #1

2009-06-18T12:57:00.002-07:00

While I may be very opinionated, you'll hear me rave and rant a lot, this little place on the Web is about adjusting life and learning things that are now different from before. Maybe some minor, maybe some major. Either way, if I notice anything different, or I'm taught anything different, I'm going to make a note. It'll help me remember, and with any luck, it'll be interesting to hear. So let's get started. =)

Things I've Learned - Episode 1
(Star Wars references, easiest to use...)

"What's this 'cold cuts' you speak of?" - One of the more humorous things I think I learned on Day 1. We had gone into Wal-mart to pick up essentials that I needed, but didn't want to try and sneak passed airport security with all the new rules. In Jersey, meats and cheeses you get from the deli are called cold cuts. Here in Arizona, it's...well, deli meat. Real original, right? In this case, I think Jersey wins. Cold cuts just seems more creative.

"Stay away from the intersection!" - Ladies and gentlemen, I learned to drive in Jersey. -bows and relishes the applause!- If you learn to drive there, you can drive anywhere. But of course, the minute I learn to drive, I have to give it up. However, that doesn't stop my learning. In Jersey though, to make a left-hand turn, they encourage you to pull into the intersection and then make your turn. In Arizona, you so can not do that. Left-hand turns are celebrities here. They have their own personal lane, and in the majority of instances, it's own personal arrow light. You wait for that light, or the safest opportunity if there is no arrow, and then you make your turn.

"Red means stop! Limit means limit!" - You'd think that's universal everywhere, but only in the ideal world. However, Arizona cracks down heavy on their red lights and speed limits. There is no "I just made it!" at lights and no "Well, I'll go a tiny bit over, just a little!" with the limits. The cameras and places that officers hide will catch you, and you will go down. I've even heard stories about people from across the country getting tracked down for a speeding ticket, simply because the camera caught them. It's very simple: you 'brake' it, or you pay it.

"The wide open spaces..." - This is one change that I actually like. Jersey is very "tightly packed together," and can feel a little crowded. It's not a bad thing, hell, New York is even more congested, and I love it there. But I'm really liking the spacious feel of Arizona too. You have your little residential communities to give you the suburban feel. Outside of that, after a slight drive, you have the businesses and malls, which are huge and have just about anything you could possibly think of. Some indoor (Superstition Springs and Chandler Fashion District), some outdoor (San Tan Village). Everywhere inbetween and for miles around, you have a beautiful backdrop of mountains and desert (lots of cactus, lots and lots of cactus). Heck, it feels like we practically have mountains in the backyard. Behind my aunt's house is the San Tan mountains, gorgeous view from the 2nd floor. Maybe that's the real reason I want an "upstairs" in the new house, to have a pretty view!

There's your lesson for the day! Quiz next week; Faith out.

Very Opinionated #1

2009-06-18T11:00:00.002-07:00

My blog is hardly a day old before I feel the need to rant about something I found on the internet. That certainly didn't take long. I guess aside from sarcasm, I also won't be losing my adamant, passionate nature out here in the West.

It all pertains to this, and barely has anything to do with the article itself. (Although a) Moxie Crimefighter just screams what Mistah J and Harley would name their kid to spite Batsy and the entire GCPD, and b) I have friends who make a living at Disney. I assure you, this Cinderella imposter is asking for her ass to get handed to her by the Mouse Powers that Be.)

What's bothering me is some of the comments. How parents are suddenly up-in-arms regarding little girls wanting to look up to the princesses, especially considering that many parents today grew up with the likes of the new age, "girl power" princesses like Belle, Jasmine, and...well "princess-at-heart", Mulan.

I'll admit, some of it's bothers me too. I'm a huge, huge fan of Disney's Beauty and the Beast. I was 7 years old when the film first came out. It's the only movie to date that I saw 3 times in movie theaters alone, and I think there's only one Japanese tourist who has beaten my 76-time record in seeing the musical before it closed.

Yes, it's depressing that the only merchandise you can get for the movie solely involves Belle. (The movie is called Beauty AND the Beast, after all.) But what's worse is that they've turned her into something that she isn't. Belle was the first Disney girl to break the mold of "I'm waiting for my prince! -sigh!-" and just wanting more out of life. Not to mention she was a bookworm, which parents should be thrilled about. Now, she's just being portrayed as one of the girls, primping and prettying herself, and wearing that ballgown 24/7/365. Fans have even found her gardening in it lately. Really, Disney, honestly? This woman could've been the poster child for feminism in the early 90s, and you just threw that out the window to compete with the Bratz dolls? Even Barbie had more integrity.

I guess what it all boils down to is how you view the different sides. On one hand, I understand that Disney is a business and has to go where the market is, even if I disagree. (Believe you me, I can write a novel about the things that irk me about them, despite still loving the company.)

But on the other hand - and coming in for the landing - why can't parents tone down the reality a little bit? I said it the other day on my facebook: reality is overrated. Even some reality TV is scripted and complete bull sometimes. Why has the need for realism affected the current mentality of people so much that if something isn't realistic, it must be the enemy? And why would we let it affect our future generation?

Kids don't think of fairy tales and fiction in terms of historical accuracy, the price that comes with being royalty in real life, or whether things could really exist. All they see is something special and maybe a little magical. Something that puts a smile on their face. In my opinion, that's all they should be seeing. Taking away something as beautiful and precious as a child's imagination and creativity - even if it's dressing up to be as pretty as their favorite princess - is just plain cruel. "Thou shalt not steal," remember? It's a mortal sin!

It's a tough lesson that I've learned, that we've all learned. One day, they'll grow up, and they'll see what reality is. They won't ask you to read them that story because they'll have too much homework. They won't go on magical adventures in the backyard because they'll have bills and expenses to pay. If they retain an ounce of that imagination and inner child, they'll be one of the lucky few.

Parents, businesses, let children be children. It doesn't last very long. You blink once, and suddenly it's all gone. It's not fair to shove realism down their throats and rush them into the world when they aren't prepared to do so.

Faith out.

Saguaro Lake Video

2009-06-17T20:37:00.000-07:00

The blog cam visits Saguaro Lake, May 2009.

Hello & Welcome! - Blog Day 1

2009-06-17T17:51:00.000-07:00

As if the title doesn't say it perfectly...yeah, that Jersey sarcasm will probably never go away.

Hello, and welcome to my new blog! Name's Faith and I'll be your host for your following visits! Many of you are family and friends stopping by - hopefully - to follow day-to-day life. But for anyone that isn't (thank you, internet!), I'll let you know a little about me and what to expect.

Yes, I'm originally a Jersey girl. Yes, I moved to Arizona very recently. No, I don't have an accent, and I will make you pay me $20 bucks before I say certain words. (What can I say? 25 years of Jersey life will teach you easy ways to make some cash, LOL.)

But in all seriousness, with a new life comes a way to remember how it all started and how it goes on from here. I came out here a couple of weeks ago, and my family back east is sure to follow. It's a time to start anew.

You'll get to see a lot of my experiences here, as Arizona is quite a state to explore. Who knows? Maybe you'll be inspired to visit some of the places I hope to include here. I already have a video in the making about one of my first exploration spots: Saguaro Lake. So stay tuned for that!

Not to mention, I'm a writer by nature, and anything and everything that I like to talk...er, write about, I will. My interests include a great many things. They're like the music on my iPod - the most eclectic group of favorites ever, ranging from musical theater to comic books. Watching them adapt to west coast living should be interesting.

That's pretty much it for a welcome. Until next time, I leave you with my most well-known words of farewell: Faith out.