What-nots and Etceteras,

My Reviews...

lilbreck@gmail.com — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 11:46:06 GMT

For those who have missed them so far, I will give you links to my reviews. I'll be nice, and put it all behind a cut tag.

TV Shows: 5.01: Harbingers in the Fountain; 1.01: Ghost
1.02: The Target
1.03: Stage Fright
1.04: Gray Hour
1.05: True Believer
1.06: The Man on the Street
1.07: Echoes
1.08: Needs
1.09: Spy in the House of Love
1.10: Haunted
1.11: Briar Rose
1.12: Omega
1.13: Epitaph One; 1.01: Pilot
1.02: The Night of the Comet; Entire Anime Series

Dresden, now there's a wizard!

lilbreck@gmail.com — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:00:43 GMT

Jim Butcher has the cover for his 12th Dresden Files book, Changes, up, check it out.

That sure as shit doesn't look like Chicago on the cover. I'm getting all kinds of excited. Will Thomas be in it? What role will he be playing now that things have changed with him? Oh, how much will we see of Murphy. Will anybody from the Nevernever be making an appearance? I'm all giddy.

A Nice Bit of Distraction

lilbreck@gmail.com — Tue, 19 May 2009 19:41:03 GMT

Well, if you love Stephen King and will watch just about any movie with Christian Slater in it. Yes, I watched and even enjoyed Kuffs, what of it?

Dolans Cadillac trailer
by blankytwo

It made me squeal like a teen in the 90's at a NKotB concert!

Possible New Account Type

lilbreck@gmail.com — Thu, 14 May 2009 21:21:02 GMT

For a limited time, to raise money for a move that would benifit us all, squeaky is talking about offering up Hopital Benifactor [name may be changed] accounts. Please, vote in the poll in the announcements asylum and let him know our thoughts.

It's Time to Write!

lilbreck@gmail.com — Wed, 13 May 2009 19:12:33 GMT

I'm feeling a bit nostalgic, so I decided we needed a ficathon/graphics call/vid-athon. The only stipulation is you have to write within AtS, BtVS, Roswell, Charmed, Supernatural and/or Smallville in the given season. From today, March 13th until Jun 11th, we'll be writing in Season 1. I'll be cross-posting this to LiveJournal, InsaneJournal, and DreamWidth.

You can write as many fanfics, essays, poems, or make as many icons, desktops, headers, banners, or layouts as you want.
You can stay within one of the fandoms for each thing you produce, or you can crossover between the fandoms, just as long as you stay within the first season of the dominate fandom.
- For example, you can write a S1 AtS fic with visits from S4 BtVS, as long as AtS remains the dominate fandom.
- A story taking place in Si of Smallville would be in S6 of Buffy
- Timeline graphic will be coming shortly.
There is no limit for word count, and no theme you have to stick to. Though, we'd prefer happier for certain fandoms, probably, it's completely up to you.
There is no specific characters or ships you have to stick to. Slash, femmeslash, het, gen, whatever you feel like working with.
You can post your fics/graphics/vids whenever and wherever you want. Please comment to this post with your link so we can get a masterlist together at the end.
Anyone is welcome to participate, you don't have to know me, or ship what I ship.

Feel free to pimp this where you want, just remember to link back to this post. Feel free to copy/paste the code below your image of choice.
If you want different sizes, I'll work on them for you.

<a href="http://lilbreck.insanejournal.com/38482.html"><img src="http://lilbreck.across-a-pond.com/images/others/ficathon%20images/ats-s1.jpg" width="500" border="0" height="350" title="Eclecticathon Season 1"  alt="Eclecticathon Season 1" /></a>

<a href="http://lilbreck.insanejournal.com/38482.html"><img src="http://lilbreck.across-a-pond.com/images/others/ficathon%20images/btvs-s1.jpg" width="500" border="0" height="350" title="Eclecticathon Season 1"  alt="Eclecticathon Season 1" /></a>

<a href="http://lilbreck.insanejournal.com/38482.html"><img src="http://lilbreck.across-a-pond.com/images/others/ficathon%20images/ch-s1.jpg" width="500" border="0" height="350" title="Eclecticathon Season 1"  alt="Eclecticathon Season 1" /></a>

<a href="http://lilbreck.insanejournal.com/38482.html"><img src="http://lilbreck.across-a-pond.com/images/others/ficathon%20images/rw-s1.jpg" width="500" border="0" height="350" title="Eclecticathon Season 1"  alt="Eclecticathon Season 1" /></a>

<a href="http://lilbreck.insanejournal.com/38482.html"><img src="http://lilbreck.across-a-pond.com/images/others/ficathon%20images/sv-s1.jpg" width="500" border="0" height="350" title="Eclecticathon Season 1"  alt="Eclecticathon Season 1" /></a>

<a href="http://lilbreck.insanejournal.com/38482.html"><img src="http://lilbreck.across-a-pond.com/images/others/ficathon%20images/spn-s1.jpg" width="500" border="0" height="350" title="Eclecticathon Season 1"  alt="Eclecticathon Season 1" /></a>

I'll be making another post with more banners for differnent fandoms and in different sizes.

[Review] Dollhouse 1.09 Spy in the House of Love

lilbreck@gmail.com — Mon, 11 May 2009 18:09:24 GMT

Writer:	Andrew Chambliss
Director:	David Solomon
Actors:	Eliza Dushku, Tahmoh Penikett, Olivia Williams, Fran Kranz, Harry J. Lennix, Enver Gjokaj, Dichen Lachman, Reed Diamond, Miracle Laurie, Amy Acker
Guest:	Valerie Cruz, Liza Lapira, Tim Chiou

When a traitor is discovered inside the Dollhouse Echo and Sierra are programmed as Spy hunters to uncover the culprit. Meanwhile, Ballard receives surprising news from Mellie, and Adelle harbors a secret.

My Thoughts:

Two thoughts that have nothing to do with the content of the actual episode spring to mind first; LT. Murphy! I expected her to start bitching out Dresden at any moment, followed up my some banter filled with heavy UST. However, Dresden wasn't in site, there was no magic to be found in this episode, and she's working for a shady-at-best organization. This isn't my ~~Karrin~~ Connie Murphy. *sniff*

Second thought; House of Love? Really now. W&H is the House of Pain/Death, and Dollhouse gets House of Love? Please, the only difference between Dollhouse and W&H, IMO, is a regrettable lack of demons and W&H is more honest about how not-white hat they are. eta: I guess we could give them House of Love because of the Paul/Mellie scene. Shall we move on to the actual episode now?

The use of different points of view, and therefor jumping around in time usually annoys the hell out of me because it's usually fucked up. This time, while it wasn't smooth and perfect, it wasn't totally fucked up. If I paid attention, I could tell what happened when.

Now, I have a question about the 'wipe' scene at the beginning. Is this supposed to be a different kind of wipe than we saw Sierra going through? Because, if not, then why all the darkness in the room? Oh, maybe it's because the equipment is not up to par since Caroline shot it. Maybe we aren't supposed to question it. Another question about the wipe scene; am I to assume that Sierra is having some sort of bleed through or something? because no other dolls noticed what was going on in the room above them, but she did and asked Echo about it. It's either that, or they just really needed someone for Echo to answer with an try and throw us off the trail with the use of 'she'.

While the dominatrix look was unnecessary, it did lead to a good and interesting exchange between Boyd and Echo. I like how they bring up the trust between these two. Echo saying that Boyd can trust her and again saying [if not directly] that she trusts him. It's the one non-squicky relationship we've got going on in this show. It's got a nice father and daughter vibe to it, and Boyd is my favorite character. I did a little sniffle when they broke up Echo and Boyd. That's just not right. However, give that DeWitt could see Echo looking at Boyd [I'm assuming since she was right there beside him and had given him a look when Echo hesitate saying she trusted her new handler with her life] it would seem that they're still going to be close.

Let me just say how happy I am that we're back to Echo and no more of the Caroline bullshit, at least for now. Caroline is an idiot, Echo is evolving and growing. Plus, in this episode, she proves that she's more aware of what's really going on than she lets on. It might be a hold-over from last episode where Caroline confronted Topher about how he makes people different. Still, I like that Echo took charge, told Topher to make her into someone that could help, and then actually saved the day. This is a woman I could get behind. Still squicked about the idea of the Dollhouse, but in a story of nothing but shades of morally grey, I'll take what I can get. I also enjoy that when Topher imprinted her, he seemed to have imprinted her with the full knowledge that she's a doll. Makes you wonder why he'd do that. However, it did give us that nice moment where Echo confronts Dominic and tells him that she's not broken.

Speaking of women I like to see in this show, we have DeWitt. I know I said last review that I wanted to smack the smug look off her face, but today she's all snarky and funny. The fact that she's hiring Victor makes her a bit pathetic, but I choose to see that as depth to her character. She's not a card-board cut out of the evil woman in charge trying to play off like she's doing good with her little human trafficking/whore house scheme. She's a pathetic and lonely woman, hiding behind a mostly emotionless wall who is trying to play off like she's doing good with her little human trafficking/whore house scheme. It's a subtle difference that is appreciated by me. I also like that she tells Roger/Victor that the Dollhouse clients, and thereby she as well, are pathetic. I like that she's that self aware.

I'm going to assume that when Dominic shot her, it just kinda grazed her and didn't actually go through her. Otherwise, I'd be calling bullshit on that.

Claire, my morally grey girl! She does the same thing DeWitt does with the whole pretending they're doing something good, but I like the way she does it better. I could just be biased because it's Amy Acker. Yeah, I'll admit to that one. However, at least Claire admits there are flaws in the system, I'd just really like to know what she thinks those flaws are, since she says basically, she sees a different flaw than Boyd. I also love the subtle looks and such that Echo gives her. Great work on Eliza's part, IMO. I only really like Eliza on this show anymore when she's playing Echo for some reason.

About the interaction between Claire and Echo, that interrogation scene either is saying to me that Claire is a doll, or the mole. Or both. For me, it's the look on Claire's face when Echo asks if she has any friends outside of work. Though, that confusion really wouldn't work if she's a non-doll type mole. Unless I'm mis-interpreting it and it's not a look of confusion.

Okay, Topher seems determined that I start to like him. ["Or an assassin that does cheers."] I loved his coming up to warn Boyd that he was about to call DeWitt about the chip in the chair. I think he has a bit of a man crush on Boyd. It's understandable. [You think I'm the spy." "Not in a bad way."] I love the way Boyd took charge in the scene. It had the same tone of voice/inflection telling Topher that he should call DeWitt as he did when he told Echo that she should go to art class. It's a very benign authority figure voice that you want to listen to. Have I mentioned I love Boyd? Back to Topher. ["Did I just lose an argument to a doll?"] You have to wonder if, when Echo talked about how he made people different, if he was having a minor flashback to what happened last episode. The look on his face could be interpreted as such.

Now, when we see November/Mellie looking at Echo and asking where she knows her from, I get a bit confused. Are we supposed to assume that either she can't see Echo clearly, or that they have some sort of block set up in the Mellie imprint so that she doesn't recognize anyone in the dollhouse since they know she'll probably see images of other dolls, and they probably know she saw Victor at Ballard's door? Is this one of those things I'm supposed to hand wave? I'm assuming not since they went the trouble of writing and shooting a scene where Echo waves to her and she sees her and either vaguely recognizes her or thinks some weird stranger is waving at her.

Mellie... I knew Ballard would have to find out she was a doll at some point, I just didn't see it happening like that. Wow, that had to have been like a sucker-punch to the gut. Of course, he should have twigged onto the fact that something was up with her when she didn't run for safety at the sight of him drawing a weapon on her or his Wall of Crazy. And then to have to go on and pretend he's not sleeping with a doll, he isn't doing basically the same thing that he detests the Dollhouse clients for? That boy ain't ever going to get out of Crazytown! Now, I have yet another question. I know she said that the Dollhouse was likely to discover they've been altering the imprints, but does she say 'Our person inside has been captured' or 'If our person inside has been captured'? Because, if it's the first, then they're either lying, or they assumed the person would be captured by the time that Mellie/November delivered the message. More on the mole talking to Ballard later.

Now let's talk about the utter ridiculousness that was Sierra's assignment. I can only assume that the flaws in the logic of it all were there to clue us into the fact that it was a set up and they knew she was coming. Otherwise, I call bullshit on her being able to impersonate that employee and fool anybody. And why the fuck didn't she ditch those heals when she tried to run? What good did taking off the wig do? And why didn't she wait until she got back to the Dollhouse to try and read the file? Unless the Dollhouse doesn't have the tech to read it. But, wait, they did. This mission gets a big ol' fail from me.

Some people believe that Dominic was the only mole, let me tell you why i don't believe that. The mole that is in contact with Ballard is actually trying to get him to investigate and expose/bring down the dollhouse, or at least help them do it. Dominic, on the other hand, was sent by the NSA to protect the Dollhouse from itself so that they could sweep in at a later date and snatch it up for themselves. Therefor, there's another mole, working [possibly] independently and for someone else.

[Review] Dollhouse 1.08 Needs

lilbreck@gmail.com — Sun, 10 May 2009 16:58:44 GMT

Writer:	Tracy Bellomo
Director:	Félix Enríquez Alcalá
Actors:	Eliza Dushku, Tahmoh Penikett, Olivia Williams, Fran Kranz, Harry J. Lennix, Enver Gjokaj, Dichen Lachman, Reed Diamond, Miracle Laurie, Amy Acker
Guest:	Teddy Sears, Emma Bell, Skyler Stone, Angel Desai, Vincent Ventresca, Joe Wandell

When Echo, Sierra, Victor, and November awaken in the Dollhouse with most of their original personalities and memories intact, Echo leads the charge to free the Actives from their apparent captivity and escape the Dollhouse forever. Meanwhile, Ballard discovers the Dollhouse is closer than he thinks.

My Thoughts:

Right off the bat, I really started to dislike Ballard. The sexual tone that has taken over his Caroline obsession [which at this point has over-taken his Dollhouse obsession] squick me to no end. He's slowly but surely becoming no better than the Dollhouse clients he apparently found disgusting before. On the days I'm feeling generous, I can say that it's just the nature of the engagements and how everyone has accused him of having this fantasy revolving around 'rescuing' Caroline that have influenced the dream. And, possibly, Mellie showing up could be a reflection of how his need to protect and take care of her is in conflict with his Dollhouse/Caroline obsession. However, today isn't one of those days. I do enjoy how it's dream!Mellie that causes him to look for bugs in his apartment. But enough about that.

Going in, given where in the season this episode was located, I knew the 'awakening' would be a fake-out of some sort. I even figured that it would be done by Adelle. I, however, was not expecting everyone to be in on it [though I should have], nor that it would be Claire's idea. I did enjoy the way it was revealed, though. I also enjoyed the way they showed the glitches. How adorable and aww worthy was Victor waiting up for Sierra? What I didn't like was how hit over the head I felt by the anvils of what these people were before they came to the Dollhouse. Maybe a phrase or two, but not every other freaking sentence once they woke up. I did love Victor's take-charge attitude and the fact that he had the right idea about blending in. However, none of them did a very good job of blending in, they didn't even seem to be trying. In fact, that's kind of what started to clue me in that everyone was in on it. It was either that or the writing was just that bad. While that has happened on a Joss show far too often for my tastes, I was willing to give the show the benefit of the doubt, and I'm glad I did. Also, I'm glad it was not only a way to give the actives closure, but a way to test the staff. It almost makes me believe that the Dollhouse runners are competent.

On a shallow note, why, out of all the outfits she could have chosen, did November choose that dress? Really. However, I did get slashy ideas from Echo and November hidden in the clothes together. I think it was the fact that Echo was sitting there, holding on to November, eyes all closed. Either that or my mind is just wondering and going off on a tangent. That's always possible. It's how I became convinced that Buffy was hot for Willow on BtVS.

This episode once again showed me that Caroline, with or without her memories, is a complete idiot. What was her plan going back into the Dollhouse? How, exactly, was she planning to make a difference? Caroline has a sever savior complex without the intelligence and instinct to make it a good and endearing characteristic. She's not even smart enough to have it be a tragic flaw. I like her better as a doll, to be honest. Adelle did have it right when she said Caroline never was very realistic. I'd really like to know how long Echo has been there.

Given November's sad look, who did not see it coming that her daughter was dead? That just hurt. Victor and Sierra at the end in the utility closet were just so very bittersweet. And, while the shot of Echo/Caroline leading the other dolls out was beautiful.... she's still an idiot in my book. I just have a question: Did Echo hear that Sierra was brought in by men with guns? I know she was told that a man named Nolan brought Sierra in, but did she know it was against her will? If so, why didn't she throw that one in DeWitt's face? Speaking of DeWitt, while I did enjoy her for the most part in the episode, I wanted to smack the smug, self-important, and superior look of her face. Anyone else, or what it just me?

My favorite part of the show [besides the Victor/Sierra bits] is the ending conversation between Boyd and Claire. I like how Boyd said 'free us all' and not 'free them all'. It shows you how much he's connected with Echo, and possibly hints that he feels trapped in the Dollhouse. That last part is pure conjecture on my part. How else could such an obviously good and moral man end up working for the devil? It looked like Claire was honestly confused, and maybe a bit hurt, over the fact that Boyd didn't seem to agree with her and her method.

All in all, I have to say I enjoyed this episode more than the last one.

Because it would be rude not to say it...

lilbreck@gmail.com — Sun, 10 May 2009 13:27:16 GMT

Happy Mother's Day to all my fellow mothers! I hope you are pampered and appreciated.

[Review] Dollhouse 1.07 Echoes

lilbreck@gmail.com — Sun, 10 May 2009 09:11:19 GMT

Writer:	Elizabeth Craft & Sarah Fain
Director:	James A. Contner
Actors:	Eliza Dushku, Tahmoh Penikett, Olivia Williams, Fran Kranz, Harry J. Lennix, Enver Gjokaj, Dichen Lachman, Reed Diamond, Miracle Laurie
Guest:	Brett Claywell, Philip Casnoff, Mechad Brooks, Octavia Spencer

A deadly virus outbreak on a college campus and sends Echo back to school where pieces of her past come into focus.

My Thoughts:

First off, that opening scene with Owen bashing his brains out on the window? Yeah, I could have lived without that. For some reason, that kind of scene really creeps me out. However, Topher going all fanboi on Clive Ambrose made me almost like him. Almost. And, though I don't like the character, I love a lot of the lines he's given. His whole drug shpiel had me smiling from start to finish. However, I found it a bit beyond belief that Rossom has a team of scientist that can come up with this memory drug, yet they have to come to Topher for an antidote? Unless he's a secret doll, I'm not buying it. The scene would have been better served if Ambrose had said they'd appreciate Topher's input in addition to their teams work.

Seeing Echo's outfit, this is where I'd normally rant on how TV shows never get how a real woman would actually dress. I won't this time, I'll just hand wave that by assuming the client specified the type, if not the exact outfit 'Alice' was to wear. And, in the bedroom scene, before the campus came up on the news, Alice was so very cute. However, I can't really say I liked or even felt for Caroline in the flashbacks. she came off as very self-righteous and a bit on the dumb side. To be honest, once Alice got the to the campus, I can't say I liked her very much. I know Eliza can knock it out of the ballpark, but I haven't really felt it much during most of these episodes. What's up with that?

Did anyone else go all mushy when Paul was making breakfast for Mellie?

"It's kind of late, but since I'm a gentleman of leisure and you've taken up professional sleeping... Didn't know I could cook, did you?"

"Nope."

"Good, you won't be disappointed when you find out I can't."

However shortly after that, it goes downhill. His obsession is starting to wear thin. To maintain that level of focus, he's going to have to go batshit at some point. I just fear what it will mean for my doomed!OTP.

When Mellie/November was in the dollhouse, I loved her interaction with Topher ["Your brain rocks!"], but her breakdown broke my little heart. I just have one question; why didn't November remembering the trigger phrase, you know, trigger her? Unless it was just because that programming had been wiped... but, then, how would she remember the phrase? I've just confused myself.

Now, all the parts at the campus involving the dolls and the handlers was totally made of win. I want lots of NSA/CDC agent fanfic for Victor/Sierra. That would be too cute. And who didn't love when Victor/Tom pulled rank on Dominic? Though, I do have to say I loved Dominic when he was mind-tripping, as was Boyd. The scene with Boyd and the random college girl ["There are mansions in your eyes. You can see the doors."] was a nice give away about the drug being passed by touch before Topher made the full reveal.

Speaking of Topher, I giggled like a loon over his and DeWitt's reactions to the drug. While Topher was just a more exaggerated version of himself [makes sense to me], DeWitt went completely off script. They were just too cute. "Secret Agent Victor is so lofty." *snerk* And the both of them getting all emotional over Boyd's piano play was just too funny.

The scene with DeWitt and Dominic would have made more sense if it was DeWitt and Topher. There was far too much tension between them for two characters that didn't interact while under the influence.

I'd have to say that this episode was mostly 'meh' with some great scenes thrown in. I could have done without most of the Caroline/Alice stuff, to be honest. It pains me to say that since I adore Eliza's acting so much usually.

[Review] Dollhouse 1.06 The Man on the Street

lilbreck@gmail.com — Sun, 10 May 2009 07:41:42 GMT

Writer:	Joss Whedon
Director:	David Solomon
Actors:	Eliza Dushku, Tahmoh Penikett, Olivia Williams, Fran Kranz, Harry J. Lennix, Enver Gjokaj, Dichen Lachman, Reed Diamond, Amy Acker
Guest:	Miracle Laurie, Aisha Hinds, Kevin Kilner, Liza Lapira, Mark A. Sheppard, David Barry Gray, Patrick Stinson, Patton Oswalt

Echo becomes the perfect wife for a lonely internet mogul and Sierra's attacker is revealed. Meanwhile, Mellie's life is in danger and Agent Ballard's investigation takes a surprising turn when he comes face-to-face and goes fist to-fist with Echo for the very first time.

My Thoughts:

This is, of course, the much anticipated 6th episode. The one we were told the show would hit it's stride in. And, it didn't disappoint, IMO. There was so much I loved about this episode, especially going in unspoiled.

First, let's start with what I liked. I really enjoyed the whole documentary being shown inter spliced with the episode's other plots. It did a nice job of showing various people's reactions to the idea of the Dollhouse while not totally making a judgment call on it. I don't like morality shoved down my throat or spoon-fed to me. Also, it was nice that those reactions to it were shown in both Tanaka [I so wanted to slap that douche] and Ballard [when he was interacting with Mynor].

Another thing I liked was the bitter-sweet interactions between Victor, Sierra, and Echo. Speaking of which, is it mean or do they all have that slightly stoned air about them, not just childish innocence? It was really noticeable with Sierra, but I'm seeing it more and more in Victor and Echo. Well, Victor least of all.

My favorite thing of all in the episode? Paul and Mellie. Though, the Paul obsession with Caroline is wearing thin. Still, unexpected!sex scene! That first kiss was off the charts in hotness. However, the scene of them eating take-out together was unexpectedly sweet. He just off the cuff, as if were common knowledge and shouldn't be out of the ordinary to say, simply tells her she's gorgeous. Her little pause made me squee. And, I giggled over "What a Rick!"

When Mellie and Paul did end up sleeping together, and they were all blissful and 'let's be a team' post-coital, I expected her to die or be a doll. I figured more on dying because the actress was originally cast as November so I thought it was too obvious. I'm actually glad I was proved wrong. However, I'm not to happy about that scene. It was creepy and disturbing, as it should have been, but it seemed to go on a little too long. The sleeper/trigger bit was a very nice twist. But now my 'omgcute!ship' has turned into my 'omgdoomed!ship'.

Now for the 'meh'. The whole engagement with Mynor. I could have almost felt where he was coming from if it weren't for the fact that he was going to have sex with her. It made him into just another john paying a pimp for a person who can't give consent in my eyes. However, he did have some good points in regards to Ballard. The only non-meh thing about that encounter was 'Rebecca's' shocked and outraged "Porn!" I liked, Eliza's whole performance as Rebecca was really well done. However, the whole bit where Ballard kicks the asses of Mynor's entire security staff is more than a bit over the top, IMO. However, Tahmoh did look good doing it. Almost as good as he looked during the fight scene with Echo. Tahmoh does fight scenes very well, I'll give him that.

The sub-plot with Sierra seemed a bit convoluted. It probably would have been served better as the main story of an episode, not the b-plot. However, Victor's reactions to Sierra and the whole situation almost elevate this from 'meh' to good. When Victor said "I did something bad." "What did you do?" "Nobody will tell me." it nearly broke my heart. I figured they wouldn't go there, and at worst would have it be an innocent affectionate gesture that triggered some memory. I was skeeved at where they do go, but I figure I was supposed to be, so that's good. Also, I cheered when Boyd decked that nasty handler. There's a reason Boyd is my favorite character.

Now for the mole. We can rule out Topher as being it since it was obvious by the door that was closed when he left and open when he returned that someone did come in while he was talking to Boyd. And, unless it's at least two people working together, that also rules out Boyd. As for who else it could be, well, anybody really.

All in all, an episode that really picked up the pace and shone above the previous episodes. I'm hoping the rest are all as good as this one.

[Review] Dollhouse 1.05: True Believer

lilbreck@gmail.com — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 20:16:49 GMT

Writer:	Tim Minear
Director:	Allan Kroeker
Actors:	Eliza Dushku, Tahmoh Penikett, Olivia Williams, Fran Kranz, Harry J. Lennix, Enver Gjokaj, Dichen Lachman, Reed Diamond, Amy Acker
Guest:	Miracle Laurie, Brian Bloom, Aisha Hinds, Rebecca Field, Angus Sutherland, Mark Totty, Sam Hennings, Brad Hunt, David Alpay

Echo becomes a blind woman so that she can infiltrate a very secretive and well-guarded cult.

I'll start out by telling you that, while this episode wasn't as good as the first four, in my opinion, it was still a decent episode that seems to have hinted at and set up some interesting things for the show's future episodes. The previouslies are still pointless in my opinion, however, it's possible that some people still need them and would like to keep them, so I can ignore them.

The cult people coming in singing were annoying, however, you really can't help but dislike some of the towns people. The anvil/parallel between the cult and the Dollhouse was saved by the fact that the show came out and acknowledged it in a sarcastic manor. However, the speech by DeWitt at the end regarding temptation and Victor was just this side of too much.

I really liked that they showed that the cult, while led by a morally corrupt man, was not evil, and the people weren't wanting to be violent as they apparently been forced to, or came close to being forced to, in the past. I also liked that they showed the ATF people weren't necessarily the 'good guys' in all this. I have a question, though. How much of the ATF guy's suspicions are correct, and how much are Jonas' motives corrupt and how much are they actually him wanting to protect his people? Given that the ATF guy planted 'evidence' or something similar this time around, what's to day he didn't last time around? It's all very 'shades of grey', much like the real world.

I was actually moved by 'Ester's' speech about her vision. I think it was a great touch and a fitting way for her to get in. Also, it makes sense that Jonas was wary of the 'miracle' and I like that he was smart enough to know how to test her. Out of the show, part of me wonders exactly how they get the non-reaction when they're filming. The tech behind her being able to know the faces and such seems a bit beyond possibility, but this is a show where people's personalities get wiped and they get new ones on a routine basis. I can accept it, and like that they bothered to try and explain it in a manner fitting in with the show's canon.

'Ester' saving the people was a great touch, as well. She seems to be pre-deposed to heroics and being a strong woman. I like that, it makes her less of a victim and more of a person overcoming the things that have been done to them. It's actually a very nice message.

Ballard is... just too adorable for words.

“Was that flirting?”
“I think so. It's been a while. Did I mention I was shot?”

The look on his face while he said that kinda made me giggle. I think I might be turning into a fangirl. The whole conversation he had over the phone with Mellie where she's broke into his apartment and brought him his 'drugs' was too funny. And the way the agent looked at him during the conversation and after he explained was perfect, IMO.

Mellie and her 'left overs'! First, I want her recipes, I so want to make manicotti. She's so blatant [she probably started out more subtle] and he is so very oblivious. Part of me really wants them to hook up. Poor Mellie, Ballard is just so very blind. I hope he gets a clue soon, I'd love to see his reaction.

I love that he's getting closer to the Dollhouse and can't wait for him to actually come face to face with Echo.

Agent Dominic is falling further and further into my 'can't stand and want to be offed' category. He wants Echo out one way or another. His comes off as skeevy and evil. I actually like Topher far more than I like him. At least Topher seems to have a touch of humanity in him, Dominic, not so much. The rifle but to the face really doesn't help me like him anymore. DeWitt seems to be losing patience with him as well. I can only hope this means that he is not long for this show. The actor is doing a great job making me hate a character I'm pretty darn sure we're supposed to hate, so, part of me wants him to stay on. I'm conflicted.

As much as I dislike Topher, I love his interactions with Dr. Saunders. Though, every time I see her, I still get a flash that this is a strange, bleak, all hop is lost AU of W&H and poor Fred is the only member of the gang, save a captured Faith, who has survived. It's not a discredit to the actress, she's perfect, it's just a testament to my love of Fred and how much the Dollhouse looks like it would fit in perfectly as a Wolfram and Hart building.

Back to the show, I love that Dr. Saunders is still ethical and caring about her patients. It moves the Dollhouse further out of the black hat and into the grey area. Gotta love that! I also can't help but love that she made Topher uncomfortable and the fact that we're back to the fact that nobody reads her reports. Them having to watch the shower tapes was a nice bit of comedy.

As usual, the interaction between Boyd and Echo is spot on. He's very at ease with her [contrasted with how he was before and during their first mission] and is always looking out for her.

“I admire your courage, hitchhiking across country.”
“Because I'm blind?”
“Nah, cause your a girl.”

They were a bit heavy handed, again, with the bit about forgetting/being a new person. However, they are getting better and better at it.

It seems fitting that Echo tells Boyd she thought he was an angel. Their relationship really seems to be that of a very protective father who is doing his best to guide his daughter as she grows up and learns the world around her. I think this is most reflected in the fact that he hasn't tried to discourage her from remember things she shouldn't, nor has he told the people in charge about it. He's simply appears to accepted the 'glitches/composite events' as natural and welcome.

“I know you. How is that possible?”
“It's not.”

And those glitches have helped her survive the things that Alpha has thrown at her. Though, I don't think he threw the Stage Fright mission or this one at her. It's nice to know that not all the ones where things don't go as planned have to do with Alpha. He's not as omnipresent as he could be, which helps reduce the hype, and gives him a chance to live up to it.

Speaking of things happening that shouldn't be happening.... Man reactions. It really paralleled the fact that the cult was talking about the garden and Adam and Eve. Though, really, they should never have had a co-ed shower area. It's the same problem I have with the tree in the garden. If there's something you REALLY don't want to happen, don't stick it right smack dab in the middle of everything where it might become a temptation. I'm worried about what could happen with this, though. Victor's reaction [confused glance at his 'man reaction'] was funny, but you have to worry about what this is setting up.

Now for the ending 'lets see what Echo remembers' scene. They were much more subtle about it this time. It's obvious that she remembers Dominic hitting her, or at least the fact that he's been aggressively against her. It makes me wonder if he was the same way with Alpha, or if he's that way with Echo because of Alpha. I cant' wait to see where it leads.

Wow, looking back, maybe I did enjoy it more than I previously thought. Maybe it's just better during the second viewing.

[Review] Dollhouse 1.04: Gray Hour

lilbreck@gmail.com — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 16:26:20 GMT

Writer:	Sarah Fain, Elizabeth Craft
Director:	Dod Hardy
Actors:	Eliza Dushku, Tahmoh Penikett, Olivia Williams, Fran Kranz, Harry J. Lennix, Enver Gjokaj, Dichen Lachman, Amy Acker
Guest:	Liza Lapira, Reed Diamond, Anson Mount, Toby Leonard Moore, Kevin Will, Sarah McElligott, Andrew Bowen, Mark Ivanir, Tony Amendola

Echo's stint as a midwife doesn't prove as laborious as when she becomes an expert safe-cracker in order to perform a dangerous art heist. Yet a more than an invaluable piece of art is stolen from her on the engagement, forcing Sierra to take on a familiar persona.

Agent Ballard gives Lubov an ultimatum, and Adelle confides shocking information to Topher.

Can we get rid of the previouslies that involve explaining what the dolls are? Honestly, most of the previouslies are extremely unnecessary and take up far too much time.

I really loved the bit with Echo as a midwife. It showed that not every assignment is about sex and danger. While part of me [the part that will be a mother for the second time very soon] wanted to see that whole scene play out, I realize it wouldn't have made for a good episode since it appears everything went fine with baby and mother. I just wonder if anyone watches the encounters before they are erased?

Okay, the freaking conversation between Echo, Alpha, and Victor was creepy just for their expressions and almost out of place it seemed. Anyway, onto the mission. I actually liked the whole set up of how they got into the vault. Also, I kinda liked the bit about 'Taffy-Standard Time', but that's just me. What I am confused about is her comfortable shoes. Yes, I'd find them comfortable if all I had to do was sit or walk in them [I'm comfortable in high-heels, always have been]. However, if you have to run... I guess it's possible, you see the Italian ladies do it all the time. I guess it's just a matter of what you're used to.

This has a few subtly funny lines, like in reference to the Parthenon; “Inn't that kinda big?” It's the little things that amuse me. Also the bit about Georgia vs Alabama tickled my funny bone. I'm not looking for quirky humor, just realistic humor for the situation, and this show delivers. Also, Ivy so needs to stick around. She manages to reign Topher in and make him slightly more likable.

And it seems more and more people are realizing that Alpha isn't as dead as they had been led to believe. Though, the way everyone reacts to the news... I can't help but think that we'll only be disappointed by him when he does show up. After all, he's supposed to be this super-warrior and super-genius. He might just be a Gary Stu... wait, he's a doll, of course he's a Gary Stu. The only way that the person to bring him down doesn't come across as ridiculous is if it turns out to be a couple of the dolls going through a composite event and maybe a handler or two [one of them needs to be Langton]. Heck, throw in Topher and Ivy. It would make sense if that's how Alpha was brought down.

And, back to the show.

I like the fact that they address the possibility of a remote wipe and don't hand-wave it with 'that could never happen'. I may not like Topher, but I love his reactions to when stuff 'can't happen'. It also makes sense that he would recognize the sound that would accompany a remote wipe. I'm actually impressed they covered the little things.

So, my question is, is it the 'nice guy's' art lesson that helped keep Echo together? Either way, this seems like it was two different episodes mushed together. One is a thrilling race against the clock, the other is a strange indy film full of feelings and such. That's the only real draw back I can see to this episode, but it's a pretty big one.

What I do like is that we have a reversal. Instead of Echo saving Sierra, we have Sierra trying to save Echo. Again, it makes Echo less of a Mary Sue... though that's kinda what she's made to be most of the time. It's through no fault of Sierra's that it failed, which keeps this from turning into a 'see, Echo does it better' scene. However, I like that it gave Echo a chance to choose to not only not shoot at the guards, but not leave 'nice guy' behind. And her and Langton meeting up as he's trying to rescue her, so perfect. Man, I so hope Langton doesn't die in this show.

I don't think that the 'closure' for Ballard went quite how DeWitt was expecting. She seems to be good at underestimating Ballard. That's to be expected. What was also expected was Echo taking a phrase or gesture away from the encounter to mimic while in her blank state. However, I think this one was far more subtle and much better played, IMO. Honestly, I was expecting to hear her say 'blue skies' since they repeated it so much. I was pleasantly surprised, a nd, in case you missed it, the reference was the mirror bit at the very end.

So, this was a good episode. It missed being great because it felt like two episode smushed together, but I was far from disappointed.

[Review] Dollhouse 1.03: Stage Fright

lilbreck@gmail.com — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 06:07:23 GMT

Writer:	Jed Whedon, Maurissa Tancharoen
Director:	David Solomon
Actors:	Eliza Dushku, Tahmoh Penikett, Olivia Williams, Fran Kranz, Harry J. Lennix, Enver Gjokaj, Dichen Lachman, Amy Acker
Guest:	Jonathan Kowalsky, Michael Khmourov, Manny Guevara, Stephon Fuller, Kimberly Cole, John Brantley Cole, Cloie Wyatt Taylor, Sherida Mulrowe, Billy “Sly” Williams, Alex Quijano, Miracle Laurie, Kevin Kilner, Jamie Lee Kirchner, Jim Piddock, Graham Norris, Reed Diamond

Echo becomes a backup singer to watch out for a female singing sensation with a very overzealous fan. Agent Ballard's investigation takes a turn for the worse.

The opening song put me in mind of Britney Spear's song 'Womanizer'. Not that I've listened to the song or watched the video repeatedly. That would just be insane. All in all, Rayna seems like she's supposed to be a Britney type female, with the 'signing for the mouse' and craziness. Could just be me.

I'm loving the interaction between both Echo/Sierra and Langston/Dr. Saunders. The first shows that, even in that blank stage, we still reach out to each other and try to build relationships, while the second comes across as two people who are doing what they can to help the dolls. The call back to the 'friends help each other out' was nice, especially including the stumbling bit.

Dude, Lubov can tell the neighbor lady has the hots for Ballard but he can't? 60 watt bulb, I'm telling ya! And I just looked it up, neighbor lady is named Mellie. I'll try and remember that. Anyway, Mellie is smart enough to realize that Lubov isn't really Ballard's friend [he's a sucky liar]. I really like her. Also, 'Doris Freakin Day'... bwahaha! And the reveal of him being a doll made with no fanfare, I really like that. It kinda says 'it could be anybody'. So now we have Victor to go along with Alpha, Echo, and Sierra. I'm waiting until we have Foxtrot and Golf.

The question becomes, does DeWitt know that they were setting up Ballard, or was it all Laurence doing it and all on his lonesome? I could so see him pulling that on his own. However, it might actually not be the Dollhouse people at all. Ballard is bad-ass when he wants to be.

In other news, Eliza doesn't suck at singing! And they have her character as extremely overzealous in her protection of the singer chick. Rayna has a major death wish, makes you wonder if her manager guy knew that. The speechifying got to be a bit much in the dressing room, on both sides, IMO. I guess I'm just tired of the 'poor me, it sucks to be famous' characters. I liked the 'tough love' bit at the end.

Topher sucks, as per usual, and I'm liking Dr. Saunders and wouldn't mind seeing her and 'Boyd's' scowling babies. And Langton's worry on Echo's singing... he's such a father. He's obviously more attached to his doll than the other guy. I also like Saunder's warning Langton that it's not good for Echo to be special or to think outside the box. And it really shows up in the ending shot of how Echo warns off Sierra from acting like they're close at all. It's all very subtle.

So, the episode was good, IMO, even with the bit of speechifying and 'poor me, I'm famous' involved. The show just keeps getting better and better!

[Review] Dollhouse 1.02: The Target

lilbreck@gmail.com — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 02:28:29 GMT

Writer:	Steven S. DeKnight
Director:	Steven S. DeKnight
Actors:	Eliza Dushku, Tahmoh Penikett, Olivia Williams, Fran Kranz, Harry J. Lennix, Enver Gjokaj, Dichen Lachman, Amy Acker
Guest:	Jennifer Segal, Erin Cummings, Rico E. Anderson, Omar Adam, Tim Conlon, Rich McDonald, Miracle Laurie, Reed Diamond, Matt Keeslar, Alla Greene, Mark A. Sheppard, Kevin Sizemore

Echo becomes the ultimate outdoorswoman when she is is hired by a handsome young client named Richard, but it may turn out that neither of the pair is what they seem to be. Meanwhile, Agent Ballard receives a clue about Echo's past, and we learn about Dr. Saunders' scars and the rogue active "Alpha".

When I watched the first episode, I had hope for this show. The second episode has raised that hope up even higher.

We open up [after the previouslies] on a flashback of an alarm blaring in the Dollhouse and the dolls being ushered to their freaky sunk in beds. No, I still don't like those. Another thing I don't like is Laurence. I'm pretty sure that I'm not supposed to like him and his attitude. His conversation with Echo at the end makes me want him to die in the show. I've decided I dislike him more than Topher.

As the security force led by Laurence moves further in, we find a bunch of dead dolls in the shower room, save a bloody and confused Echo who says "They won't wake up."

Yes, the whole blank slate thing is creepy as hell, and they really don't seem to want us to forget it. I actually like this. You know what else is creepy? DeWitt's little speech to the customer about the dolls. It seems like it should be something that comes straight out of The Clockwork Orange, 1984, or Logan's Run. My references could be off, but you get what I mean. It's all said in a very soothing and pleasant voice that just makes the message all that much more creepy and terrifying. Also creepy is how they're willing to send out the dolls on dangerous assignments, potentially deadly ones, and only ask for more money. I guess this is just to show again that the people who run it aren't really that good of people.

Topher is still creepy, but it's funny at times. 'Deep, deep man love'. I'm not on board with liking him in all his creepy, god-complex glory, but I could eventually be. It still makes me smile that Langton called out the fact that what they do there is creepy. Langton seems to have a thing for forcing people to face the truth. He's a great character that way.

Yes, I'm one of the many people who apparently yelled out 'Wrong Turn!' when Echo was running from the crazy killer. At least this episode was better than that movie. However, if you have to poison a girl to catch her, that's just cheating. The standoff between Echo and the crazy guy was pretty damn good, IMO. I kept expecting Langston to come in at the end and save her, but I like it better that she saved herself. I also love that we find out that 'someone' [probably Alpha] pointed the crazy guy in her direction. In fact, it's more than likely Alpha given the fake sheriff's condition.

Okay, I have a question; why was Dr. Saunders left alive? Was Alpha just interrupted? Or does he have fond memories of her? I can live without those answers, to be honest. And I love that Langton comes right out and asks the important question. Namely, why didn't Alpha kill Echo? So far, I think it has something to do with her being able to retain some of her memories from her life before the Dollhouse and from her assignments. Maybe he thinks she could be just like him. Guess we'll find out.

I love how they have the handlers all ready to go with back-up identities for when they are questioned. But what I love even more is that Langton was able to over-power the guy who was there to try and stop him from interfering with Echo's death.

The relationship between Echo and Langton is very father/daughter and extremely touching. It's like as soon as she looked him in the eye and placed all her trust in him, she became more than just a job to him. That could also explain why he didn't say anything about her apparent retention of the blank slate personality and other imprints. That whole reversal of the call and response dialog was a nice touch. The cuddle at the end as they waited for the rescue guys was also a very nice touch. I really can't wait to see this relationship unfold as the series goes on.

Okay, one last thought. Ballard is very observant when it comes to work, but totally fucking clueless when it comes to a woman coming onto him. Yet again, Tahmoh appears to be playing a 60 watt man in a 100 watt world. His neighbor is so hard core hitting on him and he just totally doesn't see it! Makes you wanna smack him.

I lied, one more thought. The shoulder smack at the end? Might have been a bit much and should have come after different dialog, I think. However, I do get the point. All in all, a pretty damn good episode.

[Review] Dollhouse 1.01: Ghost

lilbreck@gmail.com — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 03:11:33 GMT

Writer:	Joss Whedon
Director:	Joss Whedon
Actors:	Eliza Dushku, Tahmoh Penikett, Olivia Williams, Fran Kranz, Harry J. Lennix, Enver Gjokaj, Dichen Lachman, Amy Acker
Guest:	Reed Diamond, Brett Claywell, Kurt Caceres, Haley Pullos, Oscar Orlando-Torres, David Doty, Vincent Laresca, Tim Kelleher

Echo is hired by a businessman to be the ultimate kidnapping negotiator when his young daughter is abducted. Meanwhile, FBI Agent Paul Ballard risks his career in his search for the elusive Dollhouse.

I'd like to say, first off, this is beautifully shot, IMO. Also, you get a feel that there's actually some depth to this world. A lot of questions were raised in this first episode.

What did Caroline [Echo] do to get to the point where she thinks she doesn't have a choice but to sign up for this project?
Would they actually let her go at the end of the 5 years, and would she actually have her personality after that?
Who exactly started Paul on this case, how did they/he find out about Dollhouse?
Dr. Saunders' scars, where did they come from, and how recent are they.
Agent Ballard; will he be shirtless in all episodes? I'd tune in for that. Also, will he stay a 100 watt lightbulb or become a 60 watt lightbulb like Helo?
What happened to Alpha?

I really am impressed with how well Eliza handled the personality differences. It was noticeable, but not over the top. I also like the choice of having Echo, when she's not out and about, having a child-like way of talking and viewing the world. It makes sense, given that she's been wiped of all personality and past. The scene where she's talking with the programmer about Matt and going back to the party and if it would come off as clingy was really kind of sad.

To be honest, I'm not really liking the programmer [Brink?]. He comes off as skeezy and not really a good person at all. He almost seems to have a bit of a god complex, and his focus on Dr. Saunders comes off as... wrong somehow. Also, he comes off as a bit in love with himself. Just my opinion, of course.

Agent Ballard was put to good use in exposition. Tahmoh did a good job with it. Also, his speech about nobody ever having everything they want struck true.

While the story about the kidnapped child was really solid, the episode itself came off kind of slow. Not terribly so, but the fact that the episode seemed to focus so many people seems to have bogged it down. I really hope that they only focus on one or two characters in future episodes.

Both my husband and I were both wondering, however, what do they 'dolls' think when they're not on assignment. Do they think they're just living in some sort of commune?

Given the nature of the show, I'm glad Joss opted to go with less of the humor that became his trademark. While you do see hints of it [the scene with Matt's friend not really 'getting' the Cinderella reference was a nice touch]. I'm hoping he doesn't fall back on humor, as the subject matter would be better handled without it showing up too much.

That's pretty much all for now.

And I Can Bake!

lilbreck@gmail.com — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 02:09:26 GMT

recipe is posted here

Okay, so I made lemon ricotta cookies this morning. Given that none of my family had ever tried lemon cookies before and this would be my first time making cookies from scratch, I only made half a batch. This ended up being about 17 cookies [it was supposed to be @22, but my cookies are apparently bigger than Giada's].

Given that I played it safe and only baked half a batch, can you guess what happened?

Yeah, they're gone all ready.

I'm thinking of substituing the lemon juice and zest with orange juice and zest next time. We'll see.

Chlark Madness 2009 - Start making your rec's

lilbreck@gmail.com — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 06:02:12 GMT

Chlark Madness is a Chlark video contest that takes your favorite Chlark videos through a sweet sixteen sweeps – similar to March Madness – until there is one left. This should be a fun little contest that will not only create some buzz for Chlark online, but also provide some well deserved feedback for Chlark vidders.

It's a great chance to show everyone what you love about Chlark. That's what I we this to be, an event were we can talk about Chlark as represented in the artwork of Chlark videos.

There are several ways to participate. First, you can recommend videos. (See the video recommendation process in the rules thread for how.) Second, watch and vote for your favorite Chlark video. Third, give feedback on why you're recommending the video.

The Categories:

Season Eight Chlark: Chlark videos that contains video/images from season eight, but not exclusive to season eight.
Past Season Chlark (a), Clark videos that does not contain video/images from season eight.
Theory video—Chlois video would fall into here.
Alternative Universe Video
Past Season Chlark (b)
Past Season Chlark (c)
Show Clips – Chlark (This could be a scene that you watch or something along the lines of the slow motion Abyss clips, but the video is not intercut with other scenes.)
Second Chances—For videos that were eliminated in a playoff.

The Dates:

Sweet Sixteen will be announced on March 2, 2009.
- Wednesday, March 4, 2009: Round One will consist of eight games and end on March 9, 2009.
- Wednesday, March 11, 2009: Round Two will consist of four games and end on March 16, 2009.
- Wednesday, March 18, 2009: Round Three will consist of two games and end on March 23, 2009.
- Wednesday, March 25, 2009: Final Round will consist of one game and end on March 30, 2009.
As needed February 20 to February 28 will be used for play-offs within the categories.

Two of Us Live Chat

lilbreck@gmail.com — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 22:32:32 GMT

Tonight at 9 PM EST/8 PM Central [hour later than usual] we will be having a Chlarker/Chloiser live chat. It's going to be about Season Nine Rumors and any fun suggestions for season nine episodes. I don't think I can top psychotic jeweler, but I'd love to try!

We hope to keep it light and fun. Sure, there's always a panic, but it's also kind of funny if you sit way back to look at it.

Also, we will do symbolism at some point, but probably not until the second hiatus. We're leaving the thread up/primer so people can post to it! :)

To Those That Follow Me Here and Not On LJ

lilbreck@gmail.com — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 23:31:19 GMT

I didn't announce it here, but I'm pregnant. Actually, I'm about 5 or 6 months along.

If you want to keep track of my progress, and just updated on my children in general, check out my blogspot on it. I probably won't post much about it here, though I'll probably post and give a link when I update that blog.

Reason #1432 To Have Children...

lilbreck@gmail.com — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 20:19:21 GMT

[and we haven't even started on the fact that they'll go get a Capri Sun out of the fridge for you]

They are little holiday decoration making machines! While decorating the house last night [we haven't been in the spirit for personal reasons], we've decided we're not actually going to buy any decorations. We stop at the fake tree, ornaments and lights we already got. Next year, I'm teaching my girl how to make snowflakes for the windows. It's fun for the kids, and cheaper than trying to buy decorations. However, you might be more heartbroken if they come up missing when you go to decorate the next year.

BTW, Happy Holidays to all to celebrate any. To those who don't... Happy Hump Day ;)

A New Community

lilbreck@gmail.com — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 21:42:30 GMT

For those of you who love to cook, or who are looking for/to share recipes, I have a new community for you.

simple_cooking

The posting is moderated, so the recipes can be legible. Ooh, and the tagging is going to [hopefully] be thorough! Please, come and share your recipes. I'm always looking for some good ones.

How To: Convert AVI Files to Ipod Format with WinFF

lilbreck@gmail.com — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 04:27:05 GMT

The title pretty much says what this tutorial is all about.

First, you want to download WinFF for yourself. I'd go here and do it.

After you've donwloaded that and installed it, you'll find a button on your desktop, usually, that looks like this:
Click it.

Now, you'll get a the following window up [without anything in the main text area]:

Click on the giant green plus sign that says Add. You'll get a browsing window up where you can look for your avi file and press open. [I can always add this images if you really need it.]

Next, under the main text area, where it says Convert To ... pick Ipod from the drop down menu, then your aspect ratio from the next drop-down menu. I haven't found a way really figure this out my video height and width, so I generally just guess.

For the Output Folder, click on the browse button and look where you want your new Ipod format file to be. Generally, in your Itunes folder is a great place.

After you've picked that all out, hit the blue arrow button labeled Convert and sit back and wait. It may take a while.

Little tip: If you click on the options, you can have it shut down after it's done converting. That way you won't have to randomly check the command screen that pops up to see if it's done.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask them!

How To: Change File Extensions

lilbreck@gmail.com — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 04:25:33 GMT

If, for some reason you find yourself needing to change file extensions [change that mp4 home video to m4v for some reason], then here's the tutorial for you!

First, open the folder containing the files [or just My Computer if you want to effect everything].

Find the Tools button in your nav bar and scroll down to Folder Options, clicking that:

In the window that pops up, click on the View tab and, in the Advanced Settings section, scroll down to where it says 'Hide extensions for known file types. Un check that.

Hit apply. You should now see the file extensions [such as .png, .mp4, ect...].

Now, right click on the file you want to change the extension of, and chose 'rename'. Instead of changing the name itself, just make sure you change the extension!

Feel free to comment if you have any questions.

How To: Use HJ-Split to Join Files

lilbreck@gmail.com — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 04:22:58 GMT

I know some of you like to split large files to share them [have you tried to e-mail a complicated and many layered psd file? It's difficult at best], but not everyone knows how to use programs to rejoin them. So, here's a quick and dirty step-by-step tutorial on how to join files split by HJ-Split.

First, make sure it was HJ-Split the uploader/sender used to split the file.

Make sure you download all the parts, and download them into the same folder.

Third, download the file. You can google it, or just go to that page I just linked.

Now, after you've installed the program, open it. This is what the screen should look like:

Click on Join, and you should get this window popping up:

Now it's a simple matter of clicking on 'Input File' and browsing for the proper name. The window has a handy reminder of what file to look for. If you want the joined file to go to a different folder, then click on the 'Output' and browse for where you want it. Otherwise, just leave it and it will join in the same folder as the split parts.

After you're done joining, you can feel free to delete all the split files as they are now obsolete.

Feel free to comment if you have any questions.

Sex Poll!

lilbreck@gmail.com — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 09:50:49 GMT

Remember, if you comment here, this is a public post. However, I do have anon commenting enabled. It just won't show until I unscreen it.

View Poll: Sex Poll #002 [solo]