Now this is something i will have to explore. And I shall do so by posting this sentence;
Have a break, have a manatee
We shall see what comes of this.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Partial Theories on Lost
Well, here it is: tomorrow. I've been doing a lot of thinking about said finale and the one thing I've decided is this. It is impossible to believe you have it all figured out a day out of this finale. That being said however, I do have a few thoughts, for those of you who care about this sort of thing.
But before we get to all that...favorite line from last night?
Frank: Don't bother me!
Ben:...Sounds like they're making progress.
With that out of the way...theories:
Well, let's start with the obvious, shall we? Those of you who were quick jump on the 'everyone's dead, what a cop out!!' bandwagon, just back it up a second. Christian said, when Jack asked the question, that some people died before him, and some after. Therefore, logic would tell me that one thing is for sure: The Island Timeline is 'real life'. Right, so what the hell is Flash-Sideways about?
The word people seem to think was missing from last night's finale was 'Heaven'. They're all going to Heaven because they're all dead, except for Ben, who is remaining in Purgatory, which, in turn, makes The Island Hell...I don't think so.
Let's examine, for a minute, The Flash-Sideways. In this 'alternate reality', what's wrong with these character's lives? Nothing. The Sideways Time Line is, for the most part, ideal. But to really understand it, lets get a tad more specific, shall we? Let's look at Jacob's Candidates:
Locke- Has Helen. Without a doubt, the biggest difference between the time lines, and really, the only one that matters. That, and how he lost his ability to walk. As it turn's out, ol' pops isn't half bad after all, in this wonderful little world.
Hurley- Seemingly runs the world. Incredibly successful and is the self-proclaimed, 'Luckiest Man In The World'.
Sawyer- Forms an all-star Detective team with Miles. The important change here is that he is on the right side of the law, and has someone else who depends on him
Sayid- Well, he isn't with her...but at least Nadia is still alive, and she still needs him.
Jack- Has a son and is on great terms with his ex-wife, Juliet.
Jin/Sun- Very...very...happily together, though not married.
These are the differences matter. All of the candidates have someone that depends on them. And sure, minus a few aspects here and there, they all have happy existences. What I'm trying to get at is this:
They are all leading lives that have the criteria opposite from what they did before. This is important because their flawed existences where nobody depended upon them is what made them Jacob's Candidates.
The other important aspect of the Flash-sideways is that The Island has sunk. When, nobody can be sure. Therefore, i'd venture to guess that this other reality is more or less...timeless...maybe...
So what's the scene in the Church?
I think it is possible that this other timeline is happening after everyone involved has died. NOT IN THE CRASH. I've heard this sentence all over the place today by people who clearly have not been paying attention AT ALL, and it has been driving me to the point of raging madness.
Christian told Jack some people died before him, some people died after him. So they did not all die at once. Another quote that proves this is: "You were a great Number Two." Hurley and Ben's interaction shows us that Hurley's duration as Protector of the Island has come and gone. Which happened after Jack died.
Now, The Church.
Lost has always shown symbolism from multiple religions, most notably Christianity and Buddhism. Because Damon and Carlton stated they wanted the end to be left open for interpretation, which, by the way, is the only way the show could end while staying true to itself, I think they made the end ambiguous so you didnt' have to conform into believing everyone went to Heaven at the end, which many on the web have been quick to think today. Here's what i think...at least for the moment:
At the end we have two main groups of people. The Redeemed and The Condemned. Those that were in the church at the end of the episode were the people who were 'redeemed', they have made up for their faults and their wrongdoings and therefore, their souls are allowed to 'move on'...whatever you want that to mean.
The Flash-Sideways, therefore, would be this 'Other life' that Desmond has always talked about seeing people in.
The Condemned, as stated by Michael in "Everybody loves Hugo", must roam the island as the whispers. They did not make up for their faults.
Now this is where my idea gets a little tricky: Ben.
Ben was offered the chance to come into the church. Therefore, redeemed. Except one person doesn't think Ben is deserving of redemption: Ben. Ben CHOSE not to enter the church. He came with everyone else, but just remained outside.
However, what did Ben do to get himself redeemed that Michael didn't? Now, yes, i understand that Harold Perrineau's departure from the show and all the drama there is probably the main factor for him, same with Mr. Eko. But Mr. Eko said he was not sorry for what he had done before he died. So...no church for the man with The Jesustick?
But Michael only killed two people, and betrayed the survivors...but he came back, he came back and helped everyone get off the island. Ben killed tens, possibly over a hundred people, and allowed his own daughter to be shot. He also killed Jacob, Protector of The Island. Yes, it was awesome when he saved Hurley...but does this one good deed redeem everything else? I'm not sure. As I said, I'm still trying to work everything out in my head...but slowly. These are just theories I've thought about today, without even a second viewing yet, so don't be too harsh, ok? But aside from overall meanings lets talk about last night some more.
Damon and Carlton did a great job. As with the rest of the series, I thought that writing was 100% on point. As for the performances...the best they have ever been. Charlie seeing Claire on the stage? Incredible. And how about that rock fight, huh? it felt ike the ultimate Hero Vs Villain situation. It felt like the last twenty minutes of a Bond film. What I'm trying to get at is that the whole episode felt like a movie.
If...I were to make one change. I would have switched a few lines around. Remember when Jack pushed MIB off the dock a few episodes ago with the line of "John Locke told me I had to stay." Well how cool would that fight have been if Jack kicked him off the cliff with that line?!
But, that is simply my own little idea. I thought the scene was expertly executed the way it was, that's just another, equally awesome route they could have taken.
The choice to have Vincent stay with Jack at the end, richard' first gray hair...Brilliant. The writing last night was perfect. They were very careful to give Lost an ending that stayed true to the way they wrote the rest of the show, and I think they did that.
I think the show deserves Emmy noms and Emmy wins for Best Drama Series this year. I think Michael Emerson, and Terry O'Quinn deserve best Supporting Actor noms, although they will both be defeated by John Lithgow in Dexter. They were incredible...but they each have one, and Lithgow was just off the charts. However, it really is time Matthew Fox landed in the Best Actor category, yes? I'm not saying he's got it in the bag, but I think he should be nominated. And I'm positive the writing for "The End" will take home some gold.
I'll continue to flush out my ideas some more, but it is very hard. There are plenty of questions and topics I haven't covered...but I'm getting a bit lengthy here. So questions like What is Vincent? What was the Hurley/Ben administration like? How did Jacob get off the island?-These will all just have to wait.
I'll miss it, I really will. True, there are some big questions I still want answers to, but last night was incredibly satisfying to this die-hard fan. I've been obsessed with stories my whole life, and this has been one the best ones ever told...I truly believe that.
But before we get to all that...favorite line from last night?
Frank: Don't bother me!
Ben:...Sounds like they're making progress.
With that out of the way...theories:
Well, let's start with the obvious, shall we? Those of you who were quick jump on the 'everyone's dead, what a cop out!!' bandwagon, just back it up a second. Christian said, when Jack asked the question, that some people died before him, and some after. Therefore, logic would tell me that one thing is for sure: The Island Timeline is 'real life'. Right, so what the hell is Flash-Sideways about?
The word people seem to think was missing from last night's finale was 'Heaven'. They're all going to Heaven because they're all dead, except for Ben, who is remaining in Purgatory, which, in turn, makes The Island Hell...I don't think so.
Let's examine, for a minute, The Flash-Sideways. In this 'alternate reality', what's wrong with these character's lives? Nothing. The Sideways Time Line is, for the most part, ideal. But to really understand it, lets get a tad more specific, shall we? Let's look at Jacob's Candidates:
Locke- Has Helen. Without a doubt, the biggest difference between the time lines, and really, the only one that matters. That, and how he lost his ability to walk. As it turn's out, ol' pops isn't half bad after all, in this wonderful little world.
Hurley- Seemingly runs the world. Incredibly successful and is the self-proclaimed, 'Luckiest Man In The World'.
Sawyer- Forms an all-star Detective team with Miles. The important change here is that he is on the right side of the law, and has someone else who depends on him
Sayid- Well, he isn't with her...but at least Nadia is still alive, and she still needs him.
Jack- Has a son and is on great terms with his ex-wife, Juliet.
Jin/Sun- Very...very...happily together, though not married.
These are the differences matter. All of the candidates have someone that depends on them. And sure, minus a few aspects here and there, they all have happy existences. What I'm trying to get at is this:
They are all leading lives that have the criteria opposite from what they did before. This is important because their flawed existences where nobody depended upon them is what made them Jacob's Candidates.
The other important aspect of the Flash-sideways is that The Island has sunk. When, nobody can be sure. Therefore, i'd venture to guess that this other reality is more or less...timeless...maybe...
So what's the scene in the Church?
I think it is possible that this other timeline is happening after everyone involved has died. NOT IN THE CRASH. I've heard this sentence all over the place today by people who clearly have not been paying attention AT ALL, and it has been driving me to the point of raging madness.
Christian told Jack some people died before him, some people died after him. So they did not all die at once. Another quote that proves this is: "You were a great Number Two." Hurley and Ben's interaction shows us that Hurley's duration as Protector of the Island has come and gone. Which happened after Jack died.
Now, The Church.
Lost has always shown symbolism from multiple religions, most notably Christianity and Buddhism. Because Damon and Carlton stated they wanted the end to be left open for interpretation, which, by the way, is the only way the show could end while staying true to itself, I think they made the end ambiguous so you didnt' have to conform into believing everyone went to Heaven at the end, which many on the web have been quick to think today. Here's what i think...at least for the moment:
At the end we have two main groups of people. The Redeemed and The Condemned. Those that were in the church at the end of the episode were the people who were 'redeemed', they have made up for their faults and their wrongdoings and therefore, their souls are allowed to 'move on'...whatever you want that to mean.
The Flash-Sideways, therefore, would be this 'Other life' that Desmond has always talked about seeing people in.
The Condemned, as stated by Michael in "Everybody loves Hugo", must roam the island as the whispers. They did not make up for their faults.
Now this is where my idea gets a little tricky: Ben.
Ben was offered the chance to come into the church. Therefore, redeemed. Except one person doesn't think Ben is deserving of redemption: Ben. Ben CHOSE not to enter the church. He came with everyone else, but just remained outside.
However, what did Ben do to get himself redeemed that Michael didn't? Now, yes, i understand that Harold Perrineau's departure from the show and all the drama there is probably the main factor for him, same with Mr. Eko. But Mr. Eko said he was not sorry for what he had done before he died. So...no church for the man with The Jesustick?
But Michael only killed two people, and betrayed the survivors...but he came back, he came back and helped everyone get off the island. Ben killed tens, possibly over a hundred people, and allowed his own daughter to be shot. He also killed Jacob, Protector of The Island. Yes, it was awesome when he saved Hurley...but does this one good deed redeem everything else? I'm not sure. As I said, I'm still trying to work everything out in my head...but slowly. These are just theories I've thought about today, without even a second viewing yet, so don't be too harsh, ok? But aside from overall meanings lets talk about last night some more.
Damon and Carlton did a great job. As with the rest of the series, I thought that writing was 100% on point. As for the performances...the best they have ever been. Charlie seeing Claire on the stage? Incredible. And how about that rock fight, huh? it felt ike the ultimate Hero Vs Villain situation. It felt like the last twenty minutes of a Bond film. What I'm trying to get at is that the whole episode felt like a movie.
If...I were to make one change. I would have switched a few lines around. Remember when Jack pushed MIB off the dock a few episodes ago with the line of "John Locke told me I had to stay." Well how cool would that fight have been if Jack kicked him off the cliff with that line?!
But, that is simply my own little idea. I thought the scene was expertly executed the way it was, that's just another, equally awesome route they could have taken.
The choice to have Vincent stay with Jack at the end, richard' first gray hair...Brilliant. The writing last night was perfect. They were very careful to give Lost an ending that stayed true to the way they wrote the rest of the show, and I think they did that.
I think the show deserves Emmy noms and Emmy wins for Best Drama Series this year. I think Michael Emerson, and Terry O'Quinn deserve best Supporting Actor noms, although they will both be defeated by John Lithgow in Dexter. They were incredible...but they each have one, and Lithgow was just off the charts. However, it really is time Matthew Fox landed in the Best Actor category, yes? I'm not saying he's got it in the bag, but I think he should be nominated. And I'm positive the writing for "The End" will take home some gold.
I'll continue to flush out my ideas some more, but it is very hard. There are plenty of questions and topics I haven't covered...but I'm getting a bit lengthy here. So questions like What is Vincent? What was the Hurley/Ben administration like? How did Jacob get off the island?-These will all just have to wait.
I'll miss it, I really will. True, there are some big questions I still want answers to, but last night was incredibly satisfying to this die-hard fan. I've been obsessed with stories my whole life, and this has been one the best ones ever told...I truly believe that.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Initial Reactions to The End
Vincent was everyone's favorite character.
However, one of the happiest moments of the episode, for me, was the appearance of one of my favorite characters, who i feel has been mostly forgotten over the course of the show: Boone.
I will make another post tomorrow describing my theories about The Finale after I've had a good day to think about it. Because that is not what I am relishing in right now. Right now I'm relishing something else: the memories.
I remember, the night we saw Christian Shepard standing across the beach from Jack, I came upstairs and sat at my desk, and I looked out my bedroom door and I thought I saw a man in a suit standing at the other side of the hallway. I remember jumping clear out of my seat, and being scared of the dark for the week that followed.
I remember drawing an equation of the Numbers, figuring out some theory that has long since left my mind, on Mr. DeSantis' blackboard during a study hall.
I remember when i saw the first ad for the show and I said: 'Looks like a great TV Movie, I don't know how they'll make it last.'
I remember the chills I got when I heard the phrase "It's been playing on a loop for sixteen years". And when I heard that "We're the good guys, Michael". I remember when i cried: When charlie died, When Desmond Called Penny, When Alex was shot, and I'm sure a few more.
I remember being blown away by what was in the Hatch...and that there were more. I couldn't even hope to list the other times I was blown away.
I remember when I thought Vincent was Jacob. I remember when I thought Vincent was the Smoke Monster.
Yes, I remember the brief period in which I thought the Monster may be a dinosaur.
I will always remember Lost. It is, without a doubt, the break-through show on Television of the last decade. It re-created ABC's reputation. It turned has-beens into Superstars. It made each episode feel like a movie.
And that is exactly what the finale felt like. The movie that capped it off.
Those of you who loved it, go to sleep. Enjoy it, relish in it. Just stay off your computer, don't let the other side spoil the night. Those of you who hated it. Good for you, enjoy your opinions, don't rain on everyone else's parade.
I just wish I could see how Hurley and Ben ran the Island...but we can talk about all that tomorrow. Get some sleep, dry your tears, and I'll come back tomorrow and try to break this thing down a bit. But for right now, I'm taking my own advice, and enjoying this moment. Goodnight all, see you tomorrow.
"I have seen the Heart of this Island...and it is good."-John Locke
Friday, May 21, 2010
The Top 25 Most Unfrogettable Moments of 'Lost'
Well, I've changed my mind from my original idea. Here's what I will do now.
Here is my list of the Top 25 Most Unforgettable Moments on Lost. Get your tissues now. Unfortunately, I was unable to get moments for every character, most notably Mr. Eko. I know, I know! I tried, believe me I did. But I just couldn't get him on here. If I made a #26, is would be Mr. Eko Meets The Monster...but nobody likes a Top 26 list.I picked the picture as his honorable mention.
Nevertheless, I think most will be happy with my list. Perhaps you'd switch the order around a bit, but I think any Lost fan will enjoy reliving these moments in preparation for Sunday's big night.
I was unable to make a slide show, so for the full dramatic effect, I'd move slowly. But that's just me.
Enjoy yourselves.
25.) Hurley and Libby
Over the years, Lost has showed us some great relationships. But I don't think any are as heartbreaking as Hurley and Libby. Their romance was short-lived...very short-lived. I guess that's what happens when you get yourself kicked off a TV show. This moment on the cliff, right after Dave (one of the best minor characters, in my opinion) jumps over the edge, stands as the definitive moment of their relationship.
24.) Seeing the Statue
There has been some big questions that sneaked themselves in there unexpectedly, and the first appearance of The Statue is perhaps the definitive example of this technique on Lost. Literally coming out of nowhere, this short scene kept us guessing at the answer for literal years.
23.) Ben Moves The Island
A wonderful moment alone with one of the best actors on the show. This scene would leave us very confused over the season break. Still so many questions exist about The Wheel. We know that The Man In Black had the idea, but who finished it? Why is it so cold? What effect does it have on The Heart of The Island? Why is the person who moves it transported to the Tunisian Desert? All these questions spawned from this unforgettable scene.
The clip also has the beginning of the next episode, but it was the only one I could find with an embedding ability.
22.) The Death of Juliet Burke
Perhaps the standout scene from Season Six, not counting The Finale of course. It took me a long time to like Juliet, but I don't think anyone was ready for her to die, especially not Sawyer. A painful goodbye.
21.) The 'Live Together, Die Alone Speech'
The moment that Jack took control of the Losties. Without a doubt one of the most memorable quotes from the series. A small side note, I tried to find a way to get Boone into this list, but he, like Eko, just couldn't make the cut. So his appearance in the clip serves as good shout-out to him.
20.) The Reunion
There has been many 'reunions' on Lost but none compares to when the Talies and The Losties were reunited, specifically Rose and Bernard.
19.) Sawyer Tells Jack About His Father
Sawyer and Jack have not had many bonding moments, and that makes Sawyer's story all the more touching. For a long time the 'Lost Connections' were not known to the castaways, and this was perhaps the first real reveal in the series.
The embedding didn't work so take a quick detour:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xuoSMaQhLV0
18.) Ben Kills Jacob
In one episode we were introduced and then had to say goodbye (sort of) to a character we'd been speculating about for ages. What's most memorable about this to me is not the actual killing so much as Ben's speech to Jacob. The man who is always in control and always has a plan, is left utterly hurt and low. Michael Emerson, this show owes you a lot.
17.) The Death of Alex Linus
No one could believe that it happened. Nobody knew what to say. Audiences everywhere, I imagine, could only sit in disbelief.
Once again, YouTube fails me. Here's the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9pWG2wI4b50
16.) Jacob's Cabin
For a very long time the world was convinced that mysterious figure who, for a moment, appears in that chair was Jacob. Now, with one episode left, we still do not know who this Shadowy Figure is. At the time, popular belief was that it was Alvar Hanso, leading of The Hanso Foundation who sponsored the Dharma Initiative. then again, that was when we thought understanding Dharma was the key to this show. I believe that Locke was a popular candidate for the figure as well Oh how wrong we were... This is one of the chief questions I hope will be answered on Sunday.
15.) Michael Kills Ana Lucia and Libby
If I were to have made a list of the most shocking moments on Lost, this would probably be number one. No one. No one expected this.
14.) Who's In The Coffin
Without a doubt this was the biggest question between the season three finale and this moment. The answer was hard to accept, and we wouldn't really understand the answer until the beginning of season six.
13.) Locke Falls
Ever since we answered the question of Who Was in The Wheelchair, I think the biggest question was...how did he get there. And, in true Lost fashion, we found out with a jolt. the end is slightly cut off, my apologies.
12.) The Man From Tallahassee
Throughout the episode we wondered just who was 'the Man From Tallahassee. the answer sent everyone theorizing for the rest of the week as to how he got there, but raised the bigger question: How did the others become so powerful, and how do they have this power off the island?
11.) "Let's Just See What's Gonna Happen"
You could only say the phrase 'Push the button' so many times before anyone who had seen a small clip of the show would want to know what happens when you don't push it. Eventually we got the answer, but in this moment, the taste Damon and Carlton gave us intrigued us more than anything we could have hoped for.
10.) Henry Gale
For a long time after we found out his real name, everyone still refused to call Ben anything other than Henry Gale. We never got to learn the story of the real Henry Gale, but Sayid's introduction made a lasting impression.
9.) The Light In The Hatch
For me, this is one of the defining moments of John Locke's character, and one of the first things I think about when I hear the word 'Hatch'. Throughout the first season all anyone wanted to know was what was in that hatch. The answer, of course, was even more memorable, but this taste intrigued us and reinvigorated our friend Mr. Locke.
8.) "Got Any Milk?"
Before we found out that our good friend Henry Gale was not named Henry Gale, we more or less found out in this wonderful clip. It is also worth noting that it was this scene that convinced Damon and Carlton that they needed to sign Michael Emerson for a long-term contract, and not any of this three-episode nonsense. True story.
7.) Desmond Calls Penny
The ranking of this could be disputed, I would guess. However this must be one of, if not the most heartwarming moment in the show. i clearly remember crying, and I'm not the least bit ashamed to say it. Pure joy, that's what this clip is. Unfortunately, YouTube is not letting me embed any of the clips. So here's another link, i know you wpn't skip it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgZHyPrTfAk&feature=related
6.) "We're The Good Guys, Michael"
Perhaps the quote is more memorable than the scene, but considering Lost ran a billboard campaign that was all black with just this quote in white lettering...I think it is safe to say it is worth it's rank. I apologize for the alterations made to the scene.
5.) The Death of Charlie Pace
Charlie. A beloved character from the very beginning. Another scene at which I cried and am not the least bit ashamed. There's no real way to enjoy the clip so...just...here.
4.) The Others Take Walt
The first huge bombshell lost threw at us. Everyone was shocked, everyone was talking about it, everyone had theories. I think the theories are what i'll miss most about Lost, all the plotting and planning and speculating. I remember after The Numbers episode drawing a huge diagram with equations involving the numbers on a blackboard during a study hall. Oh, those were the days...but I digress.
3.) Season 2 Intro.
Throughout the scene I speculated that the man we saw was Jack, or perhaps Sawyer. And, if memory serves, i think I tossed the name Boone out there. It was a very happy-go-lucky start to the show's sophomore year...until, of course, everyone was shocked beyond belief. Best season opener...without a doubt. Not to mention Mama Cass' sales shot up immensely following the episode...I certainly contributed. "Make Your Own Kind of Music" remains one of my favorite songs...purely based on the memory of this episode.
2.) Walkabout
In my opinion, 'Walkabout' remains the best episode of Lost, with some close competition of course. The Walkabout scene, however, remains one of the first moments that we knew we would be with this show til the bitter end. No bombshell can compare to the one dropped in this scene... except maybe, the next one.
1.) "We Have to Go Back"
I've seen many parodies and mockeries of this quote and this scene. My typical response is a polite chuckle, concealing my inner laughter at the fool's lack of understanding of the scene (not to mention my rage at their blatant disrespect for great writing and acting). This reveal turned everything we knew about Lost on it's head, and made damn sure that everyone knew 'getting off the island' was not the point of the show. It also, for me, changed how I felt about Jack. Just...go ahead and enjoy the whole thing.
So that's my list folks. Try to keep it together Sunday, alright? I mean, don't call me for comfort...because I guarantee I'm going to be a mess. I have nothing but love for this show, and it'll be very hard to say goodbye.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
I'm back, and I'm calling all Losties.
Hello friends,
So my college life is incredibly hectic, and I'm afraid over the last month and a half, my poor little blog fell by the wayside. But I've been called back to duty because of a major event in the television world this Sunday.
After six years, Lost is coming to an end. TV is losing a legend this weekend, and most of the television audiences realize that.
Lots of other people like to joke about how Lost doesn't make any sense. Now, as someone who watches the show...and someone who enjoys and understands story structure, I'm a bit confused by this belief.
Every season, nay, every episode of Lost managed to do something to it's audience almost no other show in the history of television has: intrigued them. Millions of viewers went week-to-week theorizing and imagining the possibilities for where the story could go. In A Serious Man terms, they 'embraced the mystery.'
So if a captivating, confusing, original story line was too much for you, or perhaps if complex characters and intricately woven storylines were not your cup of tea...that's fine, say you don't like it. I don't understand how that is possible, but you like what you like.
Do not, however, say Lost does not make sense. Do not insult what has been some of the most brilliant television writing of all time because you didn't have the patience to think about it, because you didn't care to take a guess at the show's mysteries.
Now that that little rant is over...
Losties, in preparation for the end of an era, I'm making a tribute. My next post will come very shortly, and I'd like to inform you of what it will be:
The Most Memorable Moments of Lost
I'm going to make a collection of reflections, in two parts, on the most memorable moments from the show...and I'd like your help.
From the first time we heard The Monster, to the first time we met Henry Gale, to when Mr. Friendly drew a line, to when Locke didn't press the button, to when we lost Mr. Eko.... I want you to send one or two of your favorite moments to me.
whatsheasaid@gmail.com will do fine. So will comments.
Expect part one to cover the first three seasons. Part two, probably the next day, will cover 4-6. I'll try to post the first one on Thursday.
Dry your tears my friends, and reflect on, if you're like me, what has been one of the most important aspects of your last decade.
There's no better way to make a comeback I think. I'm looking forward to this immensely.
EDIT:
Actually, should I make a list...or should I make an order? I feel as though order is necessary. Let me know what you think I should do?
EDIT EDIT:
Alright, i've changed my mind again. No two parts. On friday I will post...
The Top 20 Most Unforgettable Lost Moments
Send Ideas. get excited.
So my college life is incredibly hectic, and I'm afraid over the last month and a half, my poor little blog fell by the wayside. But I've been called back to duty because of a major event in the television world this Sunday.
After six years, Lost is coming to an end. TV is losing a legend this weekend, and most of the television audiences realize that.Lots of other people like to joke about how Lost doesn't make any sense. Now, as someone who watches the show...and someone who enjoys and understands story structure, I'm a bit confused by this belief.
Every season, nay, every episode of Lost managed to do something to it's audience almost no other show in the history of television has: intrigued them. Millions of viewers went week-to-week theorizing and imagining the possibilities for where the story could go. In A Serious Man terms, they 'embraced the mystery.'
So if a captivating, confusing, original story line was too much for you, or perhaps if complex characters and intricately woven storylines were not your cup of tea...that's fine, say you don't like it. I don't understand how that is possible, but you like what you like.
Do not, however, say Lost does not make sense. Do not insult what has been some of the most brilliant television writing of all time because you didn't have the patience to think about it, because you didn't care to take a guess at the show's mysteries.
Now that that little rant is over...
Losties, in preparation for the end of an era, I'm making a tribute. My next post will come very shortly, and I'd like to inform you of what it will be:
The Most Memorable Moments of Lost
I'm going to make a collection of reflections, in two parts, on the most memorable moments from the show...and I'd like your help.
From the first time we heard The Monster, to the first time we met Henry Gale, to when Mr. Friendly drew a line, to when Locke didn't press the button, to when we lost Mr. Eko.... I want you to send one or two of your favorite moments to me.
whatsheasaid@gmail.com will do fine. So will comments.
Expect part one to cover the first three seasons. Part two, probably the next day, will cover 4-6. I'll try to post the first one on Thursday.
Dry your tears my friends, and reflect on, if you're like me, what has been one of the most important aspects of your last decade.
There's no better way to make a comeback I think. I'm looking forward to this immensely.
EDIT:
Actually, should I make a list...or should I make an order? I feel as though order is necessary. Let me know what you think I should do?
EDIT EDIT:
Alright, i've changed my mind again. No two parts. On friday I will post...
The Top 20 Most Unforgettable Lost Moments
Send Ideas. get excited.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Matt, Nicholas, and The Great Misunderstanding.
Gather round, children, gather round. I have a little story that just might brighten your day. I call it: Well...you should know what I've called it based on my headline. It's a bit of what some might call, a farce.
This morning, Matt, an apparently overly-sensitive young man, set out to write about The Oscar ceremony that took place the night before. Before he did so, however, he decided to check his blog e-mail to see if anything important had been sent to him. It was at that time that he saw an e-mail containing the following quote:
"If you want to be taken seriously as a person, you should contemplate exhibiting some human characteristics, such as tact, respect, or offering the world something other than your utterly useless criticisms.
Sincerely,
Nicholas"
Matt sat at his desk, utterly dumbfounded.
Flashback:
In early February, a dashing young man named Nicholas decided to check out his good friend Matt's blog. While reading a short, an ultimately, poorly written review of Stephen King's "Under The Dome", he noticed that someone felt the need to leave a comment. That comment said:
"If you want to be taken seriously as a writer, don't make errors such as the one in this phrase: "...a thrill ride from it's start."
Now, Nicholas decided that he didn't like that comment, and that he had to stand up for his friend Matt. So he made, what he felt, was a very good rebuttal. However, he decided that maybe it wasn't the best idea to post that...so he deleted it, with no way of knowing that Blogger sent his friend Matt an e-mail notification, anyway.
So here we are, about a month later, and we see Matt sitting at his desk very confused as to why he received the abuse that he did. He decided: "Maybe I had it coming. But for that? Why, golly gee, I don't think anything in that little post of mine could possibly be offensive!" And so he began to write a very long and drawn-out, almost stream-of-consciousness essay, all the while thinking that maybe he was wrong, perhaps he was just not meant for the blogging universe. But he couldn't go out without first attempting to speak his mind to that dastardly offensive Nicholas. "I mean...inhuman?" Matt thought, "I think that's just a bit too far!" And Matt felt bad, because he was worried that one of his very good friends, Nick, would think that he was talking about him.
Well, as it turns out...Matt was talking about him. Not thirty minutes went by before Matt's good friend Nick saw that Matt had posted a new blog post on his Facebook wall. It even said 'Possibly final post'. This, of course, intrigued young Nicholas, and he immediately started to read his friend's post. However, the innocent young Nick discovered, that somehow a terrible mistake had been made! Matthew was upset by his almost-commented-comment! Nicholas thought he should call his friend right away, and explain himself.
Now, when Mr. Matthew saw Mr. Nicholas' name appear on his phone, he felt bad. Nick had, unfortunately, taken Matt's blog post the wrong way. Matt picked up and immediately said: "Don't worry, my most darling Nick! I couldn't even imagine a world in which you were the one who said such things about me!"
"Oh, but my handsome and charming and intelligent friend," said Nicholas, "I am, in fact, the critic of which you have described! However, i was not criticizing you, but rather that ratcatcher that had the audacity to point out that you used such a silly a-phrase in your post!"
"Well, damn damn damn!" Matt said. "i sure did make this my own little pitty-party, now didn't I?"
"You sure did, you insecure little buffoon!" Nicholas said, "But I will make up for the confusion I caused by posting several ridiculous and overly-complimentary comments on this little dissertation of yours!"
And that, my friends, is how Matt learned that he needed to slow down and analyze certain situations a bit better, and that there is never a need to write a blog denigrating yourself just because some little coward wrote a bad comment about it. And so Mr. Shea would continue to write on, and continue to say things, but maybe...just maybe, he'd let his guns cool a bit before he fired them off online.
Then again, that's what Christian Bale said about confrontation.
The End.
This morning, Matt, an apparently overly-sensitive young man, set out to write about The Oscar ceremony that took place the night before. Before he did so, however, he decided to check his blog e-mail to see if anything important had been sent to him. It was at that time that he saw an e-mail containing the following quote:
"If you want to be taken seriously as a person, you should contemplate exhibiting some human characteristics, such as tact, respect, or offering the world something other than your utterly useless criticisms.
Sincerely,
Nicholas"
Matt sat at his desk, utterly dumbfounded.
Flashback:
In early February, a dashing young man named Nicholas decided to check out his good friend Matt's blog. While reading a short, an ultimately, poorly written review of Stephen King's "Under The Dome", he noticed that someone felt the need to leave a comment. That comment said:
"If you want to be taken seriously as a writer, don't make errors such as the one in this phrase: "...a thrill ride from it's start."
Now, Nicholas decided that he didn't like that comment, and that he had to stand up for his friend Matt. So he made, what he felt, was a very good rebuttal. However, he decided that maybe it wasn't the best idea to post that...so he deleted it, with no way of knowing that Blogger sent his friend Matt an e-mail notification, anyway.
So here we are, about a month later, and we see Matt sitting at his desk very confused as to why he received the abuse that he did. He decided: "Maybe I had it coming. But for that? Why, golly gee, I don't think anything in that little post of mine could possibly be offensive!" And so he began to write a very long and drawn-out, almost stream-of-consciousness essay, all the while thinking that maybe he was wrong, perhaps he was just not meant for the blogging universe. But he couldn't go out without first attempting to speak his mind to that dastardly offensive Nicholas. "I mean...inhuman?" Matt thought, "I think that's just a bit too far!" And Matt felt bad, because he was worried that one of his very good friends, Nick, would think that he was talking about him.
Well, as it turns out...Matt was talking about him. Not thirty minutes went by before Matt's good friend Nick saw that Matt had posted a new blog post on his Facebook wall. It even said 'Possibly final post'. This, of course, intrigued young Nicholas, and he immediately started to read his friend's post. However, the innocent young Nick discovered, that somehow a terrible mistake had been made! Matthew was upset by his almost-commented-comment! Nicholas thought he should call his friend right away, and explain himself.
Now, when Mr. Matthew saw Mr. Nicholas' name appear on his phone, he felt bad. Nick had, unfortunately, taken Matt's blog post the wrong way. Matt picked up and immediately said: "Don't worry, my most darling Nick! I couldn't even imagine a world in which you were the one who said such things about me!"
"Oh, but my handsome and charming and intelligent friend," said Nicholas, "I am, in fact, the critic of which you have described! However, i was not criticizing you, but rather that ratcatcher that had the audacity to point out that you used such a silly a-phrase in your post!"
"Well, damn damn damn!" Matt said. "i sure did make this my own little pitty-party, now didn't I?"
"You sure did, you insecure little buffoon!" Nicholas said, "But I will make up for the confusion I caused by posting several ridiculous and overly-complimentary comments on this little dissertation of yours!"
And that, my friends, is how Matt learned that he needed to slow down and analyze certain situations a bit better, and that there is never a need to write a blog denigrating yourself just because some little coward wrote a bad comment about it. And so Mr. Shea would continue to write on, and continue to say things, but maybe...just maybe, he'd let his guns cool a bit before he fired them off online.
Then again, that's what Christian Bale said about confrontation.
The End.
A Response to Oscars, and to Criticism
Well, I'm surprised, but not entirely unhappy.
As I said, i did not care for 'The Hurt Locker'. I think that it's a very well-made movie, it just is not a good movie. Although I'm very disappointed Quentin was denied yet again, I don't think that Kathryn Bigelow didn't deserve to win, and I'm happy that a woman has taken home a Best Director. I was actually totally unaware that a woman had not won the illustrious prize. I've already said it, I don't think "The Hurt Locker" was a good movie. Do I need to give it a second look? Maybe, but I was paying attention the first time. I think that it is a well written, well acted, well directed, and all around well-made movie...it just wasn't that great. Does that make sense?
Regardless, what really matters is that "Avatar" did not win, and I can go back to my original feelings of the movie: that it was an entertaining movie. A film? I don't think so. I can only hope people will stop pretending that it is a gift from God.
But what's more important to me than "Avatar" not winning, is that James Cameron not only didn't win, but was given some knocks that he deserves. I'm sorry, but when you use an acceptance speech to basically say: "Well, DUH. Why wouldn't I win?" I have to get a chuckle out of almost everyone on stage taking a jab at you.
I'm very pleased that Bridges won, and at the tributes that were given. I think that Alec and Steve did a wonderful job co-hosting, and that Neil Patrick Harris gave them one hell of an introduction.
I intended to talk more about The Oscars...but I have been stopped in my tracks by something that does not usually bother me: a comment made about a blog. And now, something that shouldn't bother me, has made me consider whether or not it is time to say goodbye to 'That's What Shea Said' for good.
I've never taken Blogs all that seriously. I never really thought I'd be a blogger. But I found that I enjoyed writing columns, and since I tossed that option away in December, that this was the next best thing.
A lot of my friends have referred to me as a writer, or even a good writer. I'm not saying this to brag...because I don't think it's true. I write stories. I've written a play, a screenplay, and in middle school I wrote three books, all three are terrible and have some of the worst grammar I have ever seen. I abuse commas, I use too many...ellipses. I don't always proofread my blogs. Why? Because they are blogs, The word itself isn't very serious. (Not too mention that I rarely update this thing.)
I've never written news stories, I've never pretended to be a 'journalist'. I don't like writing that way, I can't write that way. What I can do is write about what I know: my opinions, and I place those opinions where they belong: on things that I have knowledge about: Movies, TV shows, books, video games...that sort of thing. Occasionally when a news story really sparks and emotional reaction from me, I write a little rant about it. If I don't know what I'm talking about, I try not to let myself talk about it. Every now and then, I fail and stick my foot in my mouth, but I usually apologize. For example: last year I wrote a column for The Towerlight in which I referred to Brian Regan as a singing-comedian. He is not! I was thinking about someone else and I didn't check my facts and I made a mistake. I made a comment on my own article stating that I would do my best to not let this happen again.
I'm saying all of this because of an issue that I thought I had dropped for good. Turns out, i've been forced to respond.
I'm an asshole. I know that! Of course I know that! All the best entertainment critics are assholes! My first journalism teacher, really my only journalism teacher, taught me that good columnists know how to piss 3/4 of their audience off. This, obviously, was not always my goal. I just wrote what i felt...and I tried to put some passion behind it. Why? To make it entertaining, or at least interesting to read. To make you want to fight for the movie you loved and I hated, or whatever the situation might have been.
I've almost never responded to a comment I've received on my commentary. But now...I'm making an exception. Two posts ago, i wrote a short review of Stephen King's 'Under the Dome'. I love Stephen King, as I said. Some of his books suck...that one did not. I was actually, quite tame, i think. I also did another fun activity: making a dream cast for a book. I didn't think I'd written anything offensive at all! I did receive a comment on the post, from an anonymous source that said: "If you want to be taken seriously as a writer, don't make errors such as the one in this phrase: "...a thrill ride from it's start."
Well, when you're right you're right. That...is one stupid fucking phrase. And I said it. And guess what, if I really wanted to be taken seriously as a writer...I wouldn't use words like 'fucking', despite how much fun it is. I also said "it's". Once again, big deal...IT'S a blog. What's next, attacking the grammar of a facebook post!
Also in that article, I used 'two' instead of 'too'. I got a chuckle out of that. Could I have a edited these things out? Of course! But I already published it, and I should have proofread. So these mistakes remain, and I understand why someone made that comment. What I don't understand, is why I almost received this comment:
"If you want to be taken seriously as a person, you should contemplate exhibiting some human characteristics, such as tact, respect, or offering the world something other than your utterly useless criticisms.
Sincerely,
Nicholas"
Don't bother checking the comments, it isn't there. Not because I deleted it, but because they did...probably because they thought: 'Maybe that's a bit much', at least, i hope so. But I am not making this up. I promise. Here, i'll prove it:
There. Proven.
Now, here I am. In a pretty decent mood, and I decide to check my blog's e-mail...to find this. Someone calling me, well, basically inhuman, because of a review that...in all honesty, barely reviewed the book, let alone say anything offensive! Do you just hate Stephen King? or do you just hate me, Nicholas?
Now...I know one or two Nicholas-es (and I don't even care how to make that grammatically correct). Most of them...I have no problem with. If this comment came from the one I'm fearing IT'S from, i'm very confused. I never had a problem with you. I still don't! I've even done what you asked of me when you sent me a group Facebook request!! You were always my favorite of the people I knew from that certain organization.
Now...if this is not you, than we still should have no problem...because I have no problem with you whatsoever. I like you, i think you're a good guy, and for what it's worth, a far better writer than myself.
But I can't fathom what other Nick would write this about me. I only know one person who actually goes by Nicholas, and he likes me just fine... I think. I'm really hoping it is someone that I have never met. Because... at the very least...someone is reading my blog, which is quite surprising indeed.
I'm just confused as to why? I mean, can someone can tell me what, in that post, is so horribly offensive, that I deserve to be called inhuman, tactless, and disrespectful. I won't be mad, i really just want to know.
Opinionated is a word I've never liked, because I think it applies to everyone who has conscious thought. But, as far as the popular usage of the word goes...I certainly am opinionated. i've been called it many times. it used to offend me. No more! I accept it. i am opinionated.
Now then, had this been a comment to one of the many times I have said that i hate my own generation, with modern day music being a large factor, then I could understand some harsh criticism.
Me writing my opinions down on the web for no real reason? Well, yeah...I guess that is pretty useless. i guess you've got me there.But I do it because I enjoy it...or at least I used to. But this comment has left me with one thought, that honestly cannot be expressed in better words: "What the fuck?"
So I've written this...obscenely long post...well, i guess I don't really know why I wrote it. Because I'm confused. Perhaps to state that this may be my last one. i mean...I don't need to be called inhuman because I like to review movies, and i like to put some passion behind my opinions. I don't need to be called tactless because I know how to structure a sentence in a way that will piss off who i want it to piss off. I have a enough stress in my life, i don't need to go making more.
So...although it's a long shot, Nicholas...whoever you are, I ask you to identify yourself. Preferably in person. If we have never met...i'd like to know what i said or did that pissed you off so royally, that you needed to take it out on a...pretty innocent post. The article on Leno...yeah, I was pretty harsh on him. And I still will be, but I have re-read the King Post three times and I'm still dumbfounded.
I know nobody gives a shit what Shea Said. it's a funny title, that's all that is supposed to imply. It's a joke. (See That's What She Said) And guess what, i didn't even come up with it...Nathan Biemiller did, he's happy to remind me regularly. I just like to write. And I like movies. Thought this whole...blogging thing would be a good idea. Guess I was wrong.
Thank you, Nicholas, for making me feel...wonderful. Perhaps I had it coming. I know I wont be a professional columnist...that would be why i write a blog, you idiot. There. You want to call me tactless. You got it. But please...say it to my face. Prove how tactful you are.
And in the words of Forrest Gump: "That's all i have to say about that." That should make you happy...Nicholas.
As I said, i did not care for 'The Hurt Locker'. I think that it's a very well-made movie, it just is not a good movie. Although I'm very disappointed Quentin was denied yet again, I don't think that Kathryn Bigelow didn't deserve to win, and I'm happy that a woman has taken home a Best Director. I was actually totally unaware that a woman had not won the illustrious prize. I've already said it, I don't think "The Hurt Locker" was a good movie. Do I need to give it a second look? Maybe, but I was paying attention the first time. I think that it is a well written, well acted, well directed, and all around well-made movie...it just wasn't that great. Does that make sense?Regardless, what really matters is that "Avatar" did not win, and I can go back to my original feelings of the movie: that it was an entertaining movie. A film? I don't think so. I can only hope people will stop pretending that it is a gift from God.
But what's more important to me than "Avatar" not winning, is that James Cameron not only didn't win, but was given some knocks that he deserves. I'm sorry, but when you use an acceptance speech to basically say: "Well, DUH. Why wouldn't I win?" I have to get a chuckle out of almost everyone on stage taking a jab at you.
I'm very pleased that Bridges won, and at the tributes that were given. I think that Alec and Steve did a wonderful job co-hosting, and that Neil Patrick Harris gave them one hell of an introduction.
I intended to talk more about The Oscars...but I have been stopped in my tracks by something that does not usually bother me: a comment made about a blog. And now, something that shouldn't bother me, has made me consider whether or not it is time to say goodbye to 'That's What Shea Said' for good.
I've never taken Blogs all that seriously. I never really thought I'd be a blogger. But I found that I enjoyed writing columns, and since I tossed that option away in December, that this was the next best thing.
A lot of my friends have referred to me as a writer, or even a good writer. I'm not saying this to brag...because I don't think it's true. I write stories. I've written a play, a screenplay, and in middle school I wrote three books, all three are terrible and have some of the worst grammar I have ever seen. I abuse commas, I use too many...ellipses. I don't always proofread my blogs. Why? Because they are blogs, The word itself isn't very serious. (Not too mention that I rarely update this thing.)
I've never written news stories, I've never pretended to be a 'journalist'. I don't like writing that way, I can't write that way. What I can do is write about what I know: my opinions, and I place those opinions where they belong: on things that I have knowledge about: Movies, TV shows, books, video games...that sort of thing. Occasionally when a news story really sparks and emotional reaction from me, I write a little rant about it. If I don't know what I'm talking about, I try not to let myself talk about it. Every now and then, I fail and stick my foot in my mouth, but I usually apologize. For example: last year I wrote a column for The Towerlight in which I referred to Brian Regan as a singing-comedian. He is not! I was thinking about someone else and I didn't check my facts and I made a mistake. I made a comment on my own article stating that I would do my best to not let this happen again.
I'm saying all of this because of an issue that I thought I had dropped for good. Turns out, i've been forced to respond.
I'm an asshole. I know that! Of course I know that! All the best entertainment critics are assholes! My first journalism teacher, really my only journalism teacher, taught me that good columnists know how to piss 3/4 of their audience off. This, obviously, was not always my goal. I just wrote what i felt...and I tried to put some passion behind it. Why? To make it entertaining, or at least interesting to read. To make you want to fight for the movie you loved and I hated, or whatever the situation might have been.
I've almost never responded to a comment I've received on my commentary. But now...I'm making an exception. Two posts ago, i wrote a short review of Stephen King's 'Under the Dome'. I love Stephen King, as I said. Some of his books suck...that one did not. I was actually, quite tame, i think. I also did another fun activity: making a dream cast for a book. I didn't think I'd written anything offensive at all! I did receive a comment on the post, from an anonymous source that said: "If you want to be taken seriously as a writer, don't make errors such as the one in this phrase: "...a thrill ride from it's start."
Well, when you're right you're right. That...is one stupid fucking phrase. And I said it. And guess what, if I really wanted to be taken seriously as a writer...I wouldn't use words like 'fucking', despite how much fun it is. I also said "it's". Once again, big deal...IT'S a blog. What's next, attacking the grammar of a facebook post!
Also in that article, I used 'two' instead of 'too'. I got a chuckle out of that. Could I have a edited these things out? Of course! But I already published it, and I should have proofread. So these mistakes remain, and I understand why someone made that comment. What I don't understand, is why I almost received this comment:
"If you want to be taken seriously as a person, you should contemplate exhibiting some human characteristics, such as tact, respect, or offering the world something other than your utterly useless criticisms.
Sincerely,
Nicholas"
Don't bother checking the comments, it isn't there. Not because I deleted it, but because they did...probably because they thought: 'Maybe that's a bit much', at least, i hope so. But I am not making this up. I promise. Here, i'll prove it:
There. Proven.
Now, here I am. In a pretty decent mood, and I decide to check my blog's e-mail...to find this. Someone calling me, well, basically inhuman, because of a review that...in all honesty, barely reviewed the book, let alone say anything offensive! Do you just hate Stephen King? or do you just hate me, Nicholas?
Now...I know one or two Nicholas-es (and I don't even care how to make that grammatically correct). Most of them...I have no problem with. If this comment came from the one I'm fearing IT'S from, i'm very confused. I never had a problem with you. I still don't! I've even done what you asked of me when you sent me a group Facebook request!! You were always my favorite of the people I knew from that certain organization.
Now...if this is not you, than we still should have no problem...because I have no problem with you whatsoever. I like you, i think you're a good guy, and for what it's worth, a far better writer than myself.
But I can't fathom what other Nick would write this about me. I only know one person who actually goes by Nicholas, and he likes me just fine... I think. I'm really hoping it is someone that I have never met. Because... at the very least...someone is reading my blog, which is quite surprising indeed.
I'm just confused as to why? I mean, can someone can tell me what, in that post, is so horribly offensive, that I deserve to be called inhuman, tactless, and disrespectful. I won't be mad, i really just want to know.
Opinionated is a word I've never liked, because I think it applies to everyone who has conscious thought. But, as far as the popular usage of the word goes...I certainly am opinionated. i've been called it many times. it used to offend me. No more! I accept it. i am opinionated.
Now then, had this been a comment to one of the many times I have said that i hate my own generation, with modern day music being a large factor, then I could understand some harsh criticism.
Me writing my opinions down on the web for no real reason? Well, yeah...I guess that is pretty useless. i guess you've got me there.But I do it because I enjoy it...or at least I used to. But this comment has left me with one thought, that honestly cannot be expressed in better words: "What the fuck?"
So I've written this...obscenely long post...well, i guess I don't really know why I wrote it. Because I'm confused. Perhaps to state that this may be my last one. i mean...I don't need to be called inhuman because I like to review movies, and i like to put some passion behind my opinions. I don't need to be called tactless because I know how to structure a sentence in a way that will piss off who i want it to piss off. I have a enough stress in my life, i don't need to go making more.
So...although it's a long shot, Nicholas...whoever you are, I ask you to identify yourself. Preferably in person. If we have never met...i'd like to know what i said or did that pissed you off so royally, that you needed to take it out on a...pretty innocent post. The article on Leno...yeah, I was pretty harsh on him. And I still will be, but I have re-read the King Post three times and I'm still dumbfounded.
I know nobody gives a shit what Shea Said. it's a funny title, that's all that is supposed to imply. It's a joke. (See That's What She Said) And guess what, i didn't even come up with it...Nathan Biemiller did, he's happy to remind me regularly. I just like to write. And I like movies. Thought this whole...blogging thing would be a good idea. Guess I was wrong.
Thank you, Nicholas, for making me feel...wonderful. Perhaps I had it coming. I know I wont be a professional columnist...that would be why i write a blog, you idiot. There. You want to call me tactless. You got it. But please...say it to my face. Prove how tactful you are.
And in the words of Forrest Gump: "That's all i have to say about that." That should make you happy...Nicholas.
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