Sunday, March 21, 2010

Mellow Musings

I'm feeling mellow tonight. I've got the I wish I was more artistic itch. I'm thinking being European would be fabulous. I'm kind of disjointed right now. I feel like I'm in limbo or that I have one foot here in Funcie at school and one foot is hovering on the next phase of my life. I'm more than ready to start that next phase. I'm just not sure what that next phase is. I'm wishing I was Penny Nickols from the "Rather" series by C.A. Belmond. She has fabulous adventures, is wealthy, and is fairly normal. I think it would be lovely to go on little European adventures solving mysteries, doing research, and eating fabulous food. But that reality is not quickly approaching, maybe someday.

I think my buddy Linz said something recently about college being an in between period and we're not very well prepared for that next step. I feel like the next month (yikes month!) is going to be pointless, essential, and extremely stressful all at the same time. I'm ready for the adventure that is the next phase of my life. The songs that are speaking to me in this mood is Many the Miles by Sara Bareilles and The Call by Regina Spektor.

Okay, I'll try to be more positive next time.

Peace!

Monday, March 15, 2010

Thoughts on Robin Hood

I have a Robin Hood obsession.

I LOVE the story of Robin Hood, and Maid Marian. One of my earliest memories is watching Robin Hood Prince of Thieves with my parents. (Even though Uncle Johnny can't stand the movie or Kevin Costner, and teases me every time it comes up I love that movie and Kevin Costner in it!) I know I didn't see all of the movie, a little much for a four year old, but I saw enough to love it and fall in love with Robin Hood. One of my earliest childhood games was playing Maid Marian.

Which leads me to my topic of today. I just finished Lady of the Forest by Jennifer Roberson, an excellent book, which has started my on a Robin Hood spiral. Even as I write this blog I am watching Robin Hood Prince of Thieves. So, I've been thinking why do I, and surely there are others out there like me, love the story of Robin Hood and Maid Marian.

Well obviously part of the appeal of Robin Hood is his care for others. His desire to share wealth with those less fortunate. Robin Hood is also usually depicted as attractive, tough, talented, and charming. He's also usually a little arrogant, but come on who doesn't like a little (emphasis a little) cockiness in their men? And in addition his ability to defend you/what is his.

Onto Marian, is a popular heroine because of her beauty, independence, fiestiness, and intelligence. She is someone many women aspire to be like, myself included. I think part of my affinity for Lady Marian is due to her being depicted as a brunette, commonly with curly hair, like myself. I also like that she is depicted as aiding Robin Hood, and being independent while remaining a lady.

The love story between Robin Hood and Maid Marian is so appealing because of the intensity of their love. In most Robin Hood stories Robin and Marian are willing to sacrifice all for the other and their country. It is depicted as primarily a selfless love. From a female perspective who doesn't want a Robin Hood who will save here from the Sheriff (or Sir Guy of Gisbourne depending on the story). Not to mention they usually have playful banter, a history, and excellent sexual tension.

I think at its core the story of Robin Hood, Maid Marian, and his Merry Men is so successful and long reaching because of its simplicity. It plays to themes prevelant in all people. Love, love of woman(or man), love of country, love of fellow human beings. I think all people can relate to oppression in some way. Maybe the Sheriff isn't taxing you but maybe you're being bullied at school or something of the like. I think the legend continues because of the ability to put new twists on the classic story and are able to develop new themes and meanings. (I think that if I ever become a professor I would teach a class on Robin Hood. I would enjoy that.)

My new favorite version of Robin Hood is the BBC Robin Hood series starring Jonas Armstrong. (A very attractive Robin Hood if I may say so. :) ) I'm also a fan of Robin Hood Men in Tights, Robin Hood with Errol Flynn, and the Disney Robin Hood.

One last thing, I am apprehensive about the new Robin Hood movie starring Russel Crowe coming out this year. However, I know I will go see it! :)

"We are Robin Hood!" - Peace!

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

I have a problem: Angus, Thongs, and Perfect Snogging

Having a hard time focusing on the midterm I'm supposed to be studying for so...that means it's time to blog!


I am currently obsessed with the movie (and soundtrack) Angus, Thongs, and Perfect Snogging. It's awful! Not really. The movie is lovely. It's very Bridget Jones' Diary meets Just My Luck. The movie is directed by Gurinder Chadha (Bend It Like Bechham, Bride and Prejudice) who I think is my new favorite director. Anyway, it's a cute story about teenagers, young love, growing up, and high school age drama. But it's so adorable.

Anyway, I recently bought the movie previously viewed at Blockbuster. (Because that's right, part of the reason I love it so much is because the movie is British!) I haven't watched my new movie because I'm waiting to watch it with my BFFs on Spring Break. I'm also trying to prove to myself that I do have willpower. (I'm REALLY struggling.) [Clarification, I rented the movie previously so I HAVE seen it, in case you were confused.]

So my obsession with this story has increased with the arrival of the soundtrack. I am just dying to watch the band performance scenes. The hero is so cute. He has the cutest little 'I'm pretending to be a hardcore rock'n'roller in a rock band' face. And no worries about lusting after an underage boy, he's legal, I checked. :) Yup, I'm obsessed hardcore. The good news is that I haven't ordered the books yet! Although, I am wondering if there is a possibility for a movie sequal. I at least want to see the hero, Robbie in more movies.

Alright, I think I have satisfactorily procrastinated and feel better about my burning desire (no I'm not dramatic) to watch Angus, Thongs, and Perfect Snogging again without annoying my friends.

Peace!

Monday, March 1, 2010

Interesting Video Game

This is how I meant to publish the last blog.

I think this is a super cool video game. I think it's one I could get into. It would be really cool as a class activity. It reminds me a little bit of the Hunger Games.

Interesting Video Game

This is a super cool video game, if you ask me. Definitely something I could get behind. Reminds me of the Hunger Games a little bit.