Hundred Acre-Holocaust Video

 The Fruits of Bad Diplomacy

Hopefully, Pooh and friends went underground with many honey pots. (Today was also a bad day for the Order of the Templars.) 

John P. McCann Channel

Half Marathon Training Update

 A Runner Forgets

Yesterday I ran 5 miles for the first time in a few months. Since I was at the historic Rose Bowl, I decided on a little video at the end detailing my run. Nothing so chipper happened. The day was a bit hotter than I'd planned and by mile three, my mind was glutted with thoughts of walking, or better yet, quitting entirely. Left to its own devices on a run, that's where my brain defaults.

I ran it in, but was overheated and uninterested in anything other than basking in my car's air conditioning. Clearly, I'd been neglecting my mental training. The mind can only hold one thought at a time. Why not an upbeat, positive thought? That—and water—are what I require most on hot day running a course with very little shade.

As a general note, I am considerably slower than last year. If that's the way it rolls, so be it, but I'd hoped to ace January's Rose Bowl Half Marathon in under 2.5 hours and LA Maraton in March in under 5 hours. But time and serious training will tell.

And a little focus on the metal effort.

Coyotes 1: Cats 0

 

Coyotes roam the streets, seeking tasty pets. The Web is full of woeful tales. Here is one.

John P. McCann Channel

Men, Meme and Rome: I Don't Get It

 

Rome on the Range

A few thoughts on the recent Internet meme stating men think constantly of Rome. After a little research, I determined that the Imperial City and its customs were nothing to pine for. 

John P. McCann Channel

A Walk Among Ghosts: Dublin's Great Famine Memorial

On the banks of the River Liffey in Dublin there's a grim memorial to the victims of the Irish Great Famine. Millions died of hunger or horrid conditions aboard "coffin ships," supposedly taking them away from slow death. The video is from our recent visit to Ireland. 

John P. McCann Channel

Advertising Adores Big Brother

 Can boatloads of government cash sway the media to promote certain agendas? Does it always work? Such questions are explored in this video under ten seconds.

Jest Videos

Top Ten Disney Sassy Animal Companions

 ChatGPT compiled the list and added the voice artists. I'm growing fond of that crazy AI.

1. Mushu - from "Mulan" (voiced by Eddie Murphy)

2. Timon - from "The Lion King" (voiced by Nathan Lane)

3. Puss in Boots - from "Shrek" (voiced by Antonio Banderas)

4. Donkey - from "Shrek" (voiced by Eddie Murphy)

5. Iago - from "Aladdin" (voiced by Gilbert Gottfried)

6. Sebastian - from "The Little Mermaid" (voiced by Samuel E. Wright)

7. Abu - from "Aladdin" (various vocalizations)

8. Heihei - from "Moana" (vocalizations by Alan Tudyk)

9. Pascal - from "Tangled" (vocalizations by Frank Welker)

10. Meeko - from "Pocahontas" (vocalizations by John Kassir)

Al Stewart Catting It Onstage 2023

Joy and I visited the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano for an evening of Al Stewart. If ever a musician aged gracefully, it was Al. He realized long ago that most people would only know him for his biggest hit, "Year of the Cat." But he embraced that reality, continued writing the songs he wanted, and performs onstage dressed as a clerk in a Target store. A very enjoyable evening. 

John P. McCann Channel

A Nostalgic CNN Meme

When I saw this, only one name came to mind. I won't say. . . oh, hell, Jeffrey Toobin. And the beat goes on.

How Far Would You Go to Be Diverse?

 More HR mirth from comic Ryan Long.

Ryan Long

20,000 Leagues Under the Sea with All-Transgendered Cast

 Once again, I asked ChatGPT to write me a YouTube script. This time the subject was a Disney + remake of the above-mentioned Jules Verne classic. And once again, AI did not disappoint. It even invented a fake review channel.

Title: "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea: A Transcendent Adventure | Disney+ Remake"

[Introduction]

Host (H): Welcome back, movie enthusiasts, to another exciting episode of "CineMagic," your source for all things film and entertainment! Today, we have something truly groundbreaking to discuss. Disney+ is taking us on an underwater journey like never before with their remake of the 1954 classic, "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea." What sets this adaptation apart? Well, the entire cast features transgender actors, making it a significant milestone in Hollywood's pursuit of inclusivity and representation. Let's dive right in!

[Scene-by-Scene Analysis]

[Scene 1: The Nautilus]

H: Our story begins aboard the remarkable submarine, the Nautilus, commanded by the enigmatic Captain Nemo, played by the talented transgender actress, Alexis Williams. Williams brings depth and complexity to the character, making Nemo's inner turmoil and quest for justice even more compelling.

[Scene 2: Professor Aronnax]

H: Joining Nemo on his voyage is Professor Pierre Aronnax, portrayed by the charismatic transgender actor, Jordan Rodriguez. Rodriguez's portrayal adds a unique perspective to Aronnax's scientific curiosity and moral dilemmas as they explore the mysteries of the deep.

[Scene 3: Ned Land]

H: We can't forget the fearless Ned Land, portrayed by transgender actor Sam Patel. Patel's Ned Land is not only a master harpooner but also a symbol of resilience, highlighting the diversity within the transgender community.

[Scene 4: The Underwater World]

H: The breathtaking underwater scenes, brought to life through cutting-edge CGI, immerse viewers in a visually stunning and immersive world. The representation of aquatic life and coral reefs is not only visually impressive but also ecologically relevant, emphasizing Disney's commitment to environmental awareness.

[Scene 5: Exploration and Ethics]

H: As our heroes explore the depths of the ocean, the film delves into profound ethical questions surrounding humanity's impact on the environment and the consequences of unchecked technology. The transgender cast brings a unique perspective to these discussions, making them even more thought-provoking.

[Scene 6: Inclusivity and Representation]

H: "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea" is not just a remake; it's a celebration of diversity and representation in film. Disney+ has taken a bold step towards inclusivity, not only in front of the camera but also behind it, with transgender individuals involved in various aspects of production.

[Scene 7: A Modern Classic]

H: This remake pays homage to the 1954 classic while reimagining it for a new generation. The powerful performances of the transgender cast breathe new life into this timeless story of adventure, morality, and the mysteries of the deep.

[Conclusion]

H: "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea: A Transcendent Adventure" on Disney+ promises to be a groundbreaking cinematic experience that combines classic storytelling with contemporary inclusivity. By featuring an all-transgender cast, Disney+ is taking a significant step towards a more diverse and representative future for the film industry. We can't wait to see how this underwater adventure unfolds. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share to stay updated on all things CineMagic! Thanks for watching, and remember, magic happens when we all come together!

Disney + equals Disney films plus trans/gay stuff plus Disney films containing trans/gay stuff.

Even AI knows this.

Vox

Machete Film Review from Back-in-the-Day

 A Reprint From a More Innocent Time

A 13-year-old post from the days when I reviewed films I'd never seen.

 

A breathtaking film, Machete is director Robert Rodriguez homage to beloved children’s tale Charlotte’s Web. Set in the southwest, the film employs the subtle storytelling and layered characterizations that have built Rodriguez’s reputation as the David Lean of Texas. Teen heartthrob Danny Trejo portrays Machete, a blade-packing, Wilbur-like character. Forced to move about like a runt pig in order to remain alive, Machete lives on the allegorical chopping block. In a deft choice, Rodriguez crafts a web of racism and corruption that only Machete can slice. Rotten Senator McLaughlin (Robert DeNiro) is the anti-Charlotte. He is assisted by Michael Booth (Jeff Fahey), a hate-filled businessman who kills illegal immigrants and grinds their bones into bone powder. But Machete has his own Templeton the Rat—Shé (Rebecca Rodriguez). Shé is a taco-truck driving revolutionary who hopes to reclaim Texas for Mexico. Once back in the right hands, Texas will be transformed into a paradise, modeled after the Swiss-like order and civic honesty of Tijuana. Rich with themes of loyalty and undying friendship, Machete, not surprisingly, includes a scene at the Texas State Fair. There, Machete wins a blue ribbon for throwing knives at a spinning target on which is tied a pretty girl in tights (Lindsay Lohan). I believe E.B. White would heartily approve.

Reposted: Sept. 09, 2010

Animaniacs Celebrates 30th Anniversary

 Yes, I recall it well. The 10th or 13th of September, 1993. A big party on the Warner Bros. lot. Free food.

In honor of the event, here's a festive tune from the olden days.

rainbowzzzzzzzz

Hallow Mass Update

COMING THIS SPRING!

Igy Hotarubi Pinterest

Following an inquiry or two, I've committed to writing and publishing Volume II of my Lovecraftian horror trilogy: "The War on Death" Hallow Mass by spring 2024. 😬🙏 As illustrated by handy emojiis, fear and hope collide in my aging head. What if I botch the attempt? One promising backstop is to insert a financial penalty for NOT finishing, such as taking out advertising in advance of publication. Yeah. I like it. Now to work.

I'm also writing a horror/suspense novella which should publish in ebook form by Christmas. On top of that, I'm collating my notes from Ireland and hope to put out a short non-fiction book on my pilgrimage by next March. 

So many projects. I'm bound to complete one.

Available in durable ebook and softcover

AI Celebrates Based Book Sale

AI weighs in with a song of praise for Hans G. Schanz Based Book Sale. All kinds of libertarian and conservative fiction and a bit of non-fiction await you in ebook form. All .99 or free! Sale ends Tuesday.

beatbot.fm

 

9/11 Recalled: 2023

K called from Florida, "Planes crashed into the World Trade Center and one of the towers just fell." Unemployed in Los Angeles and half asleep at 7:30 AM, I shuffled downstairs to the TV, past Joy as she prepared for work. At first, all I saw was a dirty cloud obscuring southern Manhattan. Then a stunned announcer said the second tower had just collapsed. Joy joined me, work forgotten as we learned of the attack.

Other friends phoned throughout the day. Paul Rugg speculated about the pilots of the doomed aircraft, certain they weren't Americans forced to crash. TJ, a Vietnam vet, was incensed at the footage of jubilant Palestinians with their candy and AK-47s. He wished he could gift them with a nice buttering of napalm. In a grim mood, I agreed.

Watching TV and power-chewing Nicorette, I mostly felt numb — except when the subject was jumpers. Then I felt horror. Go to work, sip coffee, joke with your pals, then decide whether you'll suffocate, burn alive, or leap a quarter mile to certain death. Questions of etiquette arise: jump solo or hold hands with a co-worker? Perhaps several of you link arms and form a chain, finding courage in numbers. Or do you clutch a table cloth and step into the air, desperately hoping it slows your fall?



The journey takes ten seconds.


Air velocity rips away your shoes.


You explode on impact.


I will always be haunted by the jumpers of 9/11.


Oceans of paper were blasted from the towers, filling the New York sky like the Devil's ticker tape. Invoices and wedding invitations floated down to gray sidewalks.

My friend Cathy, who worked in D.C., reported chaos as the government sent everyone home at once following the Pentagon attack. One jammed intersection turned scary as a man leaped out of an SUV brandishing a pistol and attempting to direct traffic.

Being murdered is not a heroic act, though it can be. Flight 93 passengers fought back and died, saving many more in their sacrifice. North Tower Port Authority employees rescued over 70 people before perishing.


There were many heroes that day.

My sister Mary Pat and I had dinner at a coffee shop. She was passing through town, leaving a job in Mountain View, CA to return to Phoenix. Depressed by the day's events, our meal was not jolly.

Later, Joy tried to give blood, but the hospital was overwhelmed with donations and refused.

Vulnerability, grief, dismay, anger.

Such a beautiful morning with a sky so blue.

(Photos from: Little Green Footballs.)

Repost: Sept. 11, 2008

Update: Strange to reread this. TJ died in 2009 and K passed away just over a year ago. My wife, Joy, and I are doing well, as is Paul Rugg who now rides the train. 

Repost: Sept. 11, 2013

Update: I had cancer surgery last year, but recovered. My wife is doing well and my sister battles her own health woes. I have not heard from my friend Cathy in a few years.  Paul Rugg continues riding the train in addition to being a voice over machine.

Repost: Sept. 11, 2015

Update: Paul Rugg's daughter was not quite two years old on 9/11/01. Now she is a freshmen in college. I have retired from TV animation writing, though, as stated elsewhere, I find retirement to be indistinguishable from unemployment. (Save for a small annuity.) And very soon, I shall ride the train to see my sister. (Explanatory post t/k.)

Repost: Sept. 11, 2017

Update: Ten years have passed since I composed this post, 17 years since the incident. Alas, the greatest hit to our nation continues to be a colossal security apparatus that can't seem to function without monitoring everyone's communications, then lying about it. I'd rather not comment on airport theater. Still, my wife remains gainfully employed and I'm racing to complete a dystopian thriller by Christmas. Amidst the great events, the little things carry us forward.

Repost: Sept. 11, 2018

Update: About to publish a softcover version of my prostate book. Meanwhile the Afghanistan Forever War continues. I refuse to believe that for almost 20 years, there's been no better way of fighting the Taliban than sending billions to Pakistan to provide hiding places for them while they infiltrate Afghan government forces and assassinate our advisors. The Byzantine Empire lasted over a thousand years battling multiple enemies on different fronts, employing a combination of diplomacy military prowess, and strategic alliances. With the entrenched, consequence-proof dimwits we have infesting Washington D.C., we'll probably end up surrendering to the Taliban.

Repost: Sept. 11, 2019

Update: How odd to stand on the threshold of twenty years. Given the riots and chaos of the pandemic, the blithering repose of local government re. small-business-killing lockdowns, the event is passing with barely a mention. If I hadn't spotted a NatGeo special on the Twin Towers, I might've forgotten myself. Interesting health issue, with cataract surgery, an upcoming new crown—for a tooth—and the results of a biopsy for skin cancer. Paul Rugg works on a Henson TV show, and his daughter nears the end of her undergrad studies. My sister continues on with NPR in the unburned portion of the Pacific Northwest. I will publish a book of my short stories by Christmas. Joy's work will soon restore her full pay, slashed during the lockdowns. Since South Dakota never locked down at all, shouldn't their population be deader than the Sioux at Wounded Knee? Not all experts are experts.  

Repost: Sept. 11, 2020

Update: 

What I wrote sarcastically in 2019 came true. A devastating mortifying defeat. 

Repost: Sept. 11, 2021

Update: Paul Rugg's daughter was recently married. Paul and his wife are moving to Virginia to be somewhat near her. I've just finished a book on my thirteen-year journey to run a marathon and am preparing for a trip to Tennessee. Perhaps I'll also depart from the once Golden State, a large garbage can with palm trees.

Repost: Sept. 11, 2022

Update: When I hear politicians say we'll stay in Ukraine "as long as it takes," I wonder if it'll be 20 years and end in a disorganized rout that makes the withdrawal from Vietnam seem dignified. Paul lives in Virginia when he's not traveling to various comic-cons and hobnobbing with fans from his distinguished animation career. Joy and I just returned from Ireland with fond memories and COVID. I'm working on a book about our pilgrimage.  

Repost: Sept. 11, 2023

 

Big Based Book Sale

 

Click Aether Czar for books!

Heed Aether Czar:

Bypass the cultural gatekeeping, support non-woke authors, and get yourself some great books from both established and emerging talent for only $0.99 – many titles free!

The sale starts Thursday, September 7, 2023, 12:00 AM PDT and runs through Tuesday, September 12 to celebrate BasedCon a gathering for authors and fans of science fiction and fantasy who are tired of woke propaganda.

UPDATE: BasedCon sale working just fine. My $.99 ebook Jury Doody sits at #2 on Amazon.

Yes, I'm Stll Running v.2

 Not lately, however. Between illness and vacation, I've fallen out of my exercise routine. But nothing fires up the running engines than a goal. And so I signed up for the Rose Bowl Half-Marathon in January and am considering the LA Marathon in March. 

But first, I need to blow off the dust and cover a few miles. 

RunningGearLab

Neo-Paganism in The Black Demon

Cinematic Spoilers Ahead!

 Wow, it's been awhile. I've been vacationing in Ireland and laid up with COVID for two weeks. But here I return with my dear friend, Chat GPT v.3.5 I've asked Chat to examine the giant shark film The Black Demon and  "Expand on neo-pagan undertones, particularly the protagonist's family gathering in a circle to pray to the Azetec weather god.

Chat felt that:

Certainly, the inclusion of a family gathering to pray to the Aztec weather god in "The Black Demon" adds a significant layer of neo-pagan undertones to the film's narrative. This scene not only serves as a symbolic moment within the story but also highlights the connection between characters, their ancestral beliefs, and the primal forces of nature. Here's an expanded exploration of this aspect: 

 **Cultural and Ancestral Connection:** The family's gathering to pray to the Aztec weather god reflects a connection to ancient cultural and ancestral beliefs. By incorporating neo-pagan elements, the film emphasizes the characters' ties to their heritage and the importance of preserving and honoring these traditions. 

 **Reverence for Nature:** Neo-pagan beliefs often center around a deep reverence for nature and its elements. The act of praying to a weather god underscores the characters' acknowledgment of nature's power and their desire to seek its favor. This not only adds depth to their spiritual practices but also highlights the primal relationship humans have with the natural world. 

 **Harmony and Balance:** Neo-paganism often emphasizes the idea of balance and harmony between humans and nature. The act of gathering as a family to collectively offer prayers aligns with this concept, illustrating a desire for a harmonious coexistence with the natural world and its forces. 

 **Connection to Inner Selves: ** Neo-pagan beliefs frequently encourage individuals to connect with their inner selves and embrace their true natures. The family's prayer ritual could be interpreted as a moment of introspection, where characters align themselves with the rhythms of nature and confront their inner desires, fears, and hopes. 

**Transcendence of Time:** Neo-paganism often challenges linear perceptions of time and instead views existence as cyclical. The use of ancient rituals and gods in the film can symbolize the cyclical nature of human experience, suggesting that the struggles and beliefs of the past continue to shape the present. 

 **Conflict with Modernity:** The inclusion of neo-pagan undertones can also serve as a commentary on the clash between modernity and traditional belief systems. In a world dominated by technology and secularism, the family's practice of ancient rituals highlights the tension between preserving cultural heritage and adapting to contemporary norms. 

 Incorporating the family's prayer to the Aztec weather god not only deepens the film's exploration of neo-pagan undertones but also enriches its themes of connection, spirituality, and humanity's relationship with the natural world. This scene becomes a focal point where the characters' actions reflect a broader exploration of ancient belief systems, primal instincts, and the enduring significance of tradition in a rapidly changing world.

A sequel is rumored in the works. This time, when the Aztec weather god sends another big shark, the family fights back by cutting out the hearts of their neighbors on an obsidian altar in order to appease the surly deity.

Gays, Nazis and Chat GPT

 What a heady combination. I simply had to experiment. Here's what Chat GPT did with my request for an inspirational YouTube script about gay Nazi Ernest Rohem.

John P. McCann Channel

Dystopian Capitol of the Pacific Northwest

It's a toss-up, but Portland brings home the win with Seattle a close-second.  

John P. McCann Channel