Thorin Action Figure:Fan's In-Depth Study + New Movie:ATLAS SHRUGGED(see vid) + Halloween Happenings + Richard Armitage is Thorin in Upcoming Movie THE HOBBIT:An Unexpected Journey
29 comments:
Sue
said...
RiCrAr,
Don't know whether you're aware of this but here goes. Just heard over here in blighty that a screenwriter has been chose to write the script for the film "Fifty Shades of Grey" (remember that very erotic book - not that I know anything about its content of course!)
There is now speculation as to who will play Christian Grey. Now who can we think of to play the role? It would obviously have to be someone used to flashing his bum to camera of course (and the rest!)
Don't know whether you're aware of this but here goes. Just heard over here in blighty that a screenwriter has been chose to write the script for the film "Fifty Shades of Grey" (remember that very erotic book - not that I know anything about its content of course!)
There is now speculation as to who will play Christian Grey. Now who can we think of to play the role? It would obviously have to be someone used to flashing his bum to camera of course (and the rest!)
Sue, I've heard Henry Cavill is the actor strongest in the running for the role of creepy Christian Grey:) Don't know if Henry is even interested in it - he might be the fans first choice so far.
Would you want Richard to play someone who uses females in a selfish way rather than for mutual pleasure? I've read a sample of the 50 sheds:D book and had lengthy discussion w/friends about it. Most agree the quality of the writing is pitiful, but a screenwriter could kick that up a few notches.
Hollywood probably wanted to buy the famous title and principal characters identities more so than the original text.
RA certainly fits Grey's physical description as a very tall, dark, handsome man. And I understand as the series of books progressed he was given redemptive values, so that would fulfill Richard's priority of a complex character with both dark and light "Shades" - will be interesting to see who is finally cast as Anastasia's obsession with an emotionally fragile, dominant male.
I get my thrills with a much more emotionally healthy male - he, like the majority of men in that category (as you no doubt know) does enjoy taking turns at dominance with the females in their lives. *turning 50 shades of blushing pink*
Almost certain you'd agree with me that "variety is indeed the spice of life." *where are my velvet covered handcuffs & leather whip* teehee;^D
Now I must find that "50 Shades of Guy of Gisborne" graphic from a few months back and repost;D
Love the new video. Great song. Started thinking about my Rami and Katia story as a sort of version of Casino Royale with a twist.... :) :) (Coffee, cream no sugar, instead of shaken, not stirred. We'll see how it goes.) :) :)
My Heavens, what a conversation you guys are having! Down here where I'm from, we leave those discussions to the bedroom (and perhaps the board room).
bedroom and boardroom, the mind boggles. I'm afraid the boardroom table is out for me - not with my back!!!
RiCrAr,
I must admit I think Richard learned his lesson in not reading the script properly - didn't take note of the director's scene notes - in BTS. I think he had his fingers burned (or maybe another extremity perhaps?) by not paying attention fully. To be honest I think Fifty Shades of Grey will be basically a porno movie, and not much else.(Only so much huffing and puffing a gal can take!) I think I'll stick with my mantra that Richard will make a wonderful James Bond.
Well, I hadn't quite thought of it in that context. I was thinking more of dominance and submission as it applies to the workplace -- who would like to take the role of submissive today?
But the boardroom table. Hum. There's an idea. I suppose it requires the right partner. Of course, I play the role of nun these days, but my back is fine.
LOL..There you go Sue, if your back isn't up to the boardroom table, Cleo sounds as though she's willing to substitute. As for me, there was a time, as newlyweds, when a tile bathroom floor even looked inviting. *Can't believe I just typed that;*D
Have you read 50 Shades of Grey, Cleo? I suspect not-so-innocent Sue has at least taken a peek - of course, only to see what the fuss is all about:)
The novel still seems to be a fav topic of discussion for many American/Brit women. In fact, last night we were invited to attend a local appearance by Scottish comedian(now American)Craig Ferguson. His warm-up comedian did a skit on 50 Shades - the female half of the audience howled with delight. Majority of men looked puzzled, as though they were missing the joke - and they probably were.
RA's fans on twitter continue to speculate whether the Richard III rumors are credible. Consensus seems to be that this is the right time for the actor to take advantage of his professional momentum going into The Hobbit movie premiere.
RA's career decisions have always been exactly on target - each one kept him moving professionally forward - therefore, would not be surprised if he is capitalizing on the current Thorin buzz.
Very nice, Ricrar! :) Was the tile bathroom floor particularly grimy? That would make it even a better story. I hope that all newly weds are that lucky!
As for 50 Shades of Grey -- no, I have not seen it. But I will take a look on your advice. I hope it is particularly hot and sweaty, because I don't get to read much outside of my field. Been reading about gender politics in Hizbullah in Lebanon, and social structure in Yemen of late... Something hot and sweaty would be a welcomed intervention.....
No, cleo, it was freshly scrubbed. haha Kinkiness doesn't need to carry germs;D
As a matter of fact, I do not recommend 50 Shades of Grey. It's really poorly written - an insult to your brain:D It seems downright pitiful that millions of women don't have vivid enough imaginations to enjoy the sizzling possibilities for an equal partnership between a woman and man. The latter, done correctly, is spectacularly more delish than the tired old whips and bondage fan-fiction phenomenon.
If you really want one of your screenplays, etc to rocket to the top of females "must read" list, I'd recommend you go back and insert some well-written erotic sex scenes. Feed their hunger and they will come! That always seemed to be Richard's modus operandi when it came to furthering his professional prospects, and it resulted in a starring role in what could be 2012 film with the largest profit margin. That's what happened with Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings series of films.
As for gender politics in the MidEast - my initial reaction is to feel great sympathy for the women in that region of the world. The feeling occurs as a result of knowing they must endure intimacy with what look to me to be the most unattractive males walking the earth. Not a politically correct statement, but a truthful one.
It's an outrage that women throughout the world have not risen up in one voice to condemn the mistreatment of their sisters in the Muslim world. Hopefully any courageous men in that area will find some way soon to protect those with the least power in that particular culture. How could an area on the globe, in the 21st century, be so dismal and brutally medieval?
Is a tile bathroom floor kinky? I'm not so sure. Now, a pool table, that would be kinky!! (And it would most likely also involve germs.)
As to erotic scenes, I have thus far avoided writing them except for some very introductory scenes, with the rest "omitted," for one short story. Even the Cleopatra screen play has no reference to sex, except in the description of cultural context, character development, and the like, in which it is purely an academic discussion. I can't really post erotic scenes on my writing site, as students (or their parents!) might find their way there. But I am certainly able to write such scenes. (hee hee)
I keep avoid your women and politics in the Middle East comments. Sorry, Ricrar! It's such a tricky question. There are a lot of parts of the Middle East, and a lot of families in the Middle East, where women have significant power. It is usually located within the family, where they can be very powerful, indeed. I think it is safe to say, we almost never hear about that in the West. And we, as women, no longer have much power within the family, where our society is much more male-centric than the Middle East, believe it or not. The woman is a very important center of power in the family there. As a single mom in the U.S. I can tell you, even holding a professor job, it's a shitty place to be a single mom. You're much better off, most of the time, as a single mom within your community in the Middle East. They have their terrible misogynists. However, I believe they are few in number. They just skew public behavior for everyone else (like all tyrants). But there's a great feature film about women in Beruit, directed by a Lebanese woman, that does a great job of showing how women really live in some parts of the Middle East -- affairs out of wedlock, and the works. (The idea that people don't have sex in the Middle East is just wrong -- they just keep it very private.) So some of it is, we get bad information. And some of it is real. The film is CARAMEL. It's great. I also recommend Lara Deeb's book, THE ENCHANTED MODERN. Very interesting take on women's roles within transforming the religion itself (a powerful role, indeed) in Shi'a Lebanon. Fun read, too. My students are loving it!
I'm sorry to hear it, Cleo, if you feel you've lack of power. I thought academia set a priority on empowering women. Was it all words backed up with little action? Honestly, my observation is that liberal men are definitely more misogynist than they pretend to be.
Just look at the way Hillary Clinton was treated when she dared to expect to be repaid for her loyalty to the Dem Party. She endured excruciating humiliation by staying with her husband after the Monica affair, and I'm sure she did it for the good of their political party. Yet, when it came time for her to receive her reward, she was shunned, mistreated and rejected in order to run a minority male. That to me sent the message "liberal men talk the talk when it comes to womens equal rights, but they don't walk the walk when given the chance."
Actually, it appers Hillary has finally lost patience with what's expected of her as a handmaiden for the Dem Prez. The State Department today distanced itself from the White House by saying they never blamed the film for the attack that killed ambassador Stevens in Libya. Will be interesting to see how it plays out in future days.
I've always felt life in general provided me with a great deal of personal power. From teen years I've always been a strong advocate for womens rights and raised a daughter who has taken great pride in being independent for many years. Within past couple years, someone came into her life who seems to be her soulmate. They're very happy together. No doubt you'll experience the same happenstance someday, if that's what you want in life. In the meantime, it sounds as though you're a wonderful, loving mother who is also raising a strong daughter. Keep up the great work:)
As for MidEastern families - to my mind it isn't enough for females to have power behind closed doors. Those women deserve recognition and equal rights just as much as those of us in the West. Here's to the day when they can finally throw away the ugly burqas and confidently walk with their heads held high - in equal partnerships with their husbands.
I AM a wonderful mother raising a very strong daughter :). Thank so much you for saying it, Ricrar! You are very kind! :)
I am very powerful, but it is internal. There is more resistance than one might expect in the 21st century. I have found that academic men are like Israeli men or Muslim-Arab men; they're some of the most truly illuminated, enlightened men I know. (And some of the least.)
You have to remember, too, that I am living at the southern edge of the Bible belt. That is to say: we still have Klan here. I protested against them face to face as an undergraduate student in the 1980s. Now I live in rural Florida (with my horses), so, there you go. They don't like single women, or anyone who tans well (I fit into both categories). They will vandalize your private property, mess with your animals, and do so over a long periods of time to intimidate. Fortunately, I'm too much of a pain in the patootie to intimdate easily. I guess I am just saying that I am coming from a context that reminds me every day that it is not only in the Middle East that some people have problems with women's autonomy.
As for Hillary -- I am one of these rare ultra-leftie feminists who has "likes" on both Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin. As my daughter says, "Rockin' my girl power!" And I value Hillary's decision not to break up her family and marriage over a trifle. Just watched Dave Chapelle last night ( on -- wah-hoo! cable!!!). He was AWESOME on the Lewinsky affair. So funny. Something like, you know you're famous when you can make someone else famous just through an act like that :) :)
As for finding that ideal, magic soulmate and equal partnership that you keep mentioning -- I won't be looking for it amongst the Klan. I've been waiting for my husband for twenty years! You just let him know I'm here :) :) :)
I think Richard is pretty shrewd when deciding what acting roles to accept, although I think having a good agent to guide him has been the main force behind his success. Of course he now has a wider choice of acting work, at the beginning I suspect he may well have taken anything that was offered, whether that meant revealing those peaches or not (within reason).
I don't think he is getting involved with the Richard III dig or consulting anyone about his script. In fact I doubt his dream will ever come to fruition, but then you never know.
I'm with you RiCrAr, Uhtred from Lords of the North would be my choice of character for Richard. It would be an ideal role for him. In the book there was so much tongue in cheek humour, that I think it would suit Richard down to the ground. That character would certainly have a twinkle in his eye.
Cleo, are you sure you're looking in the right places for an interesting date? There isn't anywhere in the USA where you cannot find at least a few good men.*might make a good movie title:*)
I truly don't understand why any female is an ultra leftie. Liberal men, who obviously are in control of the Dem Party, simply use women as their handmaidens to do all the political grunt work for them, then when it's time for them to award her the grand prize she deserves, they are so totally misogynist that they cannot grant it to her.
Here again - the following statement is the truth but for those who follow the fervent politically correct liberal religion, they will be aghast it's being said:
Gays comprise a huge part of the Democrat Party base. Many are successful and make huge donations to the liberal cause. BUT, evidently the majority of them find it distasteful to actually make a woman their standard bearer. They've become ever more politically aggressive, and with their downright abusive treatment of Hillary Clinton, it's more than obvious their agenda has pushed the Left more radically Left than it has ever been before.
Few more weeks to go and we'll see if they manage to push their struggling candidate over the finish line this time. I doubt that will happen.
They should be outraged at the way Obama and Hillary refused extra security for Libyan ambassador Stevens. His trust in them was definitely misplaced. When his life was on the line, they literally hung him out to die rather than take a chance on offending the delicate feelings of the Libyans they *thought* they had befriended. Liberals are always dangerously naive in matters of national(in Steven case personal) security. 4 more years of Obama will make our children far less secure.
Sue, it sounds as though you don't believe any of the Richard III rumors currently swirling around RA world.
Why might Richard have taken the Black Sky role? Strictly financial perhaps? Maybe he used it as a way of fulfilling dreams of owning his own NZ grape vineyard, or that private hideaway ski chateau in France - he mentioned the latter a few yrs back.
I don't look for dates anymore, Ricrar. Alas, I have found that it is not worth it. I have four beautiful horses and a beautiful daughter. I have taken to Rumi's solution, which is to write love poetry to God. I figure, if he can do it, I can :) :) (Hence the name of my writing blog: "Ruminations.") You see, I mean it, I really am a nun these days. Just without the vows, or the habit....or the convent....
I agree with you on most leftist men. Not true of all of them. But a lot would fall into the category of "New England Liberals," as you describe: everyone should have their freedom, but not in my backyard. I'm further left of them, in the sense that real freedom for everyone matters. And I'm further right of some of the right wing -- in a libertarian sort of way. I don't fit on the American spectrum very well. The American political spectrum is extraordinarily narrow. Just look at Europe to know that.
I do find that love stories and fairy tales and spys killing the bad guys is a wonderful alternative to all of the above :)
Problem is that most European countries are falling off financial cliffs, Cleo. Their politicians promised them more than their economies can deliver. IMO, when given too many political choices countries end up in deadlock. Never fully appreciated why a two party system is more efficient, but somehow it is:) It comes down to one basic decision in our presidential elections. Do we want an every growing government that stifles private sector jobs, or do we want an ever growing economy that thereby creates more jobs and prosperity for everyone?
Did you watch tonight's VP debate? If so, who in your opinion won it?
What are the names of your 4 horses? I'm amazed that you have so many. Richard's horse for Robin Hood was named Richie.
Morning, Ricrar. My horses are Star ("Starlight Omara," a large appaloosa roan pony); Baby Doll (a blanket appaloosa pony); Tara ("Taracea," who my daughter sometimes calls "Cupcake" and I sometimes call "Kapadokya" -- she's a half-Andalusian horse); and our newest addition, Ginger (a part-Arabian horse). I have pictures of them up on my facebook site (it's public -- you can find it through: pjwoods2@facebook.com).
I'm all for a strong economy. Single moms, or any family living on a single income, will be very concerned with a strong economy. The whole world is in a depression (in my opinion, "recession" is a nicety). But countries like Germany and Israel do fine with some socialist support nets for their citizens, combined with a regular, capitalist economy. Of course, they're efficient with their taxes. I would never trust American politicians to manage more tax money than they already get.
My issue with the way American politicians talk about the economy is that, on both sides of the aisle, they don't know what they're talking about. We have not had a free market since somewhere around the Silk Route. There has been no western economy since the establishment of the late-modern state (that is, the last two hundred years or so) that has not been significantly tied to the state. Western capitalism rose to what it is with (some say in cahoots with) the new form of state that is the nation-state. It's just an historical fact. So, I am all for a free market, but these politicians don't even know what a free market is.
There has only been one administration in forty years that has balanced the budget in the U.S. That is the Clinton administration. All other spin around that is just that. Spin. I couldn't stand Clinton. But he knew the economy, as did Greenspan.
We have had three market crashes in just over twenty years in this country (1987, 2000, and 2008). Two (1987 and 2008) came at the tail end or in the middle of a Republican administration. One (2000) came at the tail end of a Democratic administration, as it looked like Bush would win. I think the problem is that our politicians are so ensconced in arguing that they do not bother to learn. As an academic who did my Ph.D. with two comparative political-economists (scholars who study the link between politics and economics around the world), it is very frustrating to me. There is also the problem that many economists get too caught up in politics to give accurate evaluations themselves. Economists tend not to pay attention to history -- the empirical, structural history of the economy and the state -- so everyone attaches themselves to their favorite economist, who is probably wrong also. (There is a whole academic literature on the political history of these debates between economists -- they are very politicized, not neutral, mathematical arbiters.)
I am all for a free market. But I am not sure how many politicians are willing to go back to travel with camels and tents. In the late-modern era, there is no capitalism without ties to the state (as an historical, empirical reality). I think the U.S., actually, usually does a pretty good job of it. Our problem, in my view, is to start enforcing the laws that exist and putting white collar criminals in jail rather than patting them on the heads and asking them to please stop stealing people’s 401K funds.
Ryan: Too much reasoning by intensity. I never trust that.
With all of that in mind, that may be why I so appreciate the images of true love and justice that RA does such a nice job of offering as an alternative -- at least for a few hours of film.
I think Richard accepted the role of Black Sky because it would raise his profile in America (I believe he means to conquer the US, or die trying, as most actors do). I don't believe it will have been a terribly strong script, disaster movies never are. Although I'm sure Richard will have done the best he could with it.
I think as filming was fairly short it may have also fitted in nicely with his other acting commitments. He seems to like keeping busy, busy, busy.
He may well have his eye on a ski lodge in France and so any work he can fit in will obviously add to the coffers. They are expensive too, but you can't beat investing in property at the moment and will probably get a good deal with the current economic climate. He needs a bolt hole so that he can escape and recharge his batteries when the need arises, blow the cobwebs away.
Cleo, first of all - Pres Clinton managed to balance the budget by cooperating with the Republican congress, which was in control of both houses. Clinton moved further to the right than any Democrat president in history in order to drastically reduce corrupt welfare programs and lower tax rates. That triggered a growing economy because it created the correct business climate necessary for the job creators in the US, which are small businesses, to expand their workforce. That led to properity for everyone. That has always been the Republican economic philosophy. So, even though Democrat Clinton rarely admits it, he is marinating in the glory of financial accomplishments he should honestly share with the Republican congress. Our future Pres Romney said he intends to work with Democrats in order to solve major US problems - that's exactly what he did as Governor of Massachusetts.
As for capitalism and the free market, the Industrial Revolution lifted multi-millions out of poverty. Capitalism is the economic system that produces positive results for everyone. Socialism/Communism have failed wherever they have been tried. They simply lead to more poverty.
Very nice response, Ricrar. Very finessed :). You should consider running for office! Maybe you could talk some sense into these folks, get them working together instead of battling over who done who wrong.
As for industrialization, I am not against industrialization (well, maybe I am against industrialization :) ), but I am certainly not in favor of full-fledge socialism or communism. Those come all too often with an authoritarian state, which is the bane of my existence and my personal whipping boy, intellectually. I'm just saying -- we've never had a truly free market in the late-modern, western state. The politicians are arguing about points on a spectrum of state involvement in the economy. They all want state involvement, just in different directions. The "free market" language annoys me, because I would be perfectly happy to go back to the Silk Route :), but none of them admits that's where you have to go for a truly free market :).
Thanks for your response, by the way. I'm always nervous sharing my personal political opinions (we try to avoid that like the plague in my part of poli sci). Like the new pix, as always :)
I know Cleo, it's considered gauche to discuss religion and politics - most people say they avoid both subjects like the plague:) BUT, as far as I'm concerned they're two of the most meaningful topics humans can talk about and in my case, very difficult to avoid.(*learned politics on my daddy's knee, married a man who's just as keenly interested - then started a political forum that is currently buzzing like a bee hive:*) The next 4 wks are our high season;D
Agreed with your remark earlier that Richard's dramas have a calming effect and provide a great escape from the daily grind.
Have you watched any of his lesser roles so far? I'd recommend The Impressionists first, then Sparkhouse.
Yes, Sue, in fact Richard is probably currently blowing away those cobwebs in some peaceful corner of the world, if not right here in one of our busiest cities.
He's still the phantom celebrity - manages to travel without being recognized, but I don't expect he'll enjoy that luxury after the first Hobbit movie premieres. After that he'd best be prepared to be recognized once it's necessary for him to order dinner or check into a hotel, walk through an airport - someone will no doubt ask "Didn't you play Thorin in The Hobbit?"
He'll dislike the thought of losing privacy, but when it comes to fame they quickly learn to accept the personal disadvantages with the huge professional advantages.
Considering Black Sky was filmed so quickly, hopefully that means we won't need to wait too long after "An Unexpect Journey" to see him as a soaked, wind blown school teacher. Honestly, I'm looking forward to the disaster film more than The Hobbit - fantasy is my least fav genre for books,movies.
Hi, Ricrar. You are very kind :). I don't usually allow myself to delve into American politics. (I have a regional specialty: Middle East and Israel. I try my best to stick to that -- like Eliza and Henry Higgins sticking to the weather!)
I have seen The Impressionists. Wonderful. It just shows his range. There is something heart-wrenching about it for me. The others I can watch over and over. Not sure why. I have not seen Sparkhouse. How is it available?
I watched "The Rise of the Planet of the Apes" with my daughter recently (I think I mentioned, she's 8.5). Out of all of the areas that might suggest suspension of disbelief, what does she comment on? The human protagonist steals a police car, and she asks, "Wait, in real life, are humans supposed to drive cop cars??" Perhaps RA might consider the 8-9 year old set in determining some of his acting choices. (She, for example, loved North and South -- except for the kissing. I sold it to her as a lesson on industrialization. Speak of the devil!)
P.S. Thanks for the very gracious opportunity to vent on one of my areas of existential frustration: capitalism and the late-modern state :) :)
I think the fact that TH is basically a film for kids (in theory at least) then maybe he won't be recognised too often when travelling around. Although I'm guessing the mums will enjoy watching Thorin as much as the kids (if not more!)
I'm not really into the TH kind of films, but it will be interesting to see what kind of a fist he makes of the film Black Sky (lots of wet t-shirt scenes, hopefully).
Who knows maybe Richard is planning on staying in the US and has purchased or rented an apartment somewhere. He may well be coming to a Starbucks near you!!!!
I miss seeing Richard on the box, hopefully his next roll will be a TV one.
Wet t-shirt scenes - Looked more like wet suit scenes to me - am counting on the twister ripping teacher Gary's shirt off, at least one time;) We don't really ask for much as RA fans, do we:) Simple things such as one shirtless scene satisfies us for quite awhile. Been on a starvation diet forever in that category.
Most we can hope for in The Hobbit is for Thorin to remove his heavy blue coat..perhaps the giant spiders will do that before they roll him into their webs. Ooooh, Sue, can almost hear your imagination entertaining the thought of "rolling Richard into your web";D
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29 comments:
RiCrAr,
Don't know whether you're aware of this but here goes. Just heard over here in blighty that a screenwriter has been chose to write the script for the film "Fifty Shades of Grey" (remember that very erotic book - not that I know anything about its content of course!)
There is now speculation as to who will play Christian Grey. Now who can we think of to play the role? It would obviously have to be someone used to flashing his bum to camera of course (and the rest!)
Here's the link:
http://www.unitedutilities.com/default.aspx
Oops wrong link!!!!
RiCrAr,
Don't know whether you're aware of this but here goes. Just heard over here in blighty that a screenwriter has been chose to write the script for the film "Fifty Shades of Grey" (remember that very erotic book - not that I know anything about its content of course!)
There is now speculation as to who will play Christian Grey. Now who can we think of to play the role? It would obviously have to be someone used to flashing his bum to camera of course (and the rest!)
Here's the link:
http://entertainment.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474981686269
Sue, I've heard Henry Cavill is the actor strongest in the running for the role of creepy Christian Grey:) Don't know if Henry is even interested in it - he might be the fans first choice so far.
Would you want Richard to play someone who uses females in a selfish way rather than for mutual pleasure? I've read a sample of the 50 sheds:D book and had lengthy discussion w/friends about it. Most agree the quality of the writing is pitiful, but a screenwriter could kick that up a few notches.
Hollywood probably wanted to buy the famous title and principal characters identities more so than the original text.
RA certainly fits Grey's physical description as a very tall, dark, handsome man. And I understand as the series of books progressed he was given redemptive values, so that would fulfill Richard's priority of a complex character with both dark and light "Shades" - will be interesting to see who is finally cast as Anastasia's obsession with an emotionally fragile, dominant male.
I get my thrills with a much more emotionally healthy male - he, like the majority of men in that category (as you no doubt know) does enjoy taking turns at dominance with the females in their lives. *turning 50 shades of blushing pink*
Almost certain you'd agree with me that "variety is indeed the spice of life." *where are my velvet covered handcuffs & leather whip* teehee;^D
Now I must find that "50 Shades of Guy of Gisborne" graphic from a few months back and repost;D
Love the new video. Great song. Started thinking about my Rami and Katia story as a sort of version of Casino Royale with a twist.... :) :) (Coffee, cream no sugar, instead of shaken, not stirred. We'll see how it goes.) :) :)
My Heavens, what a conversation you guys are having! Down here where I'm from, we leave those discussions to the bedroom (and perhaps the board room).
cleo,
bedroom and boardroom, the mind boggles. I'm afraid the boardroom table is out for me - not with my back!!!
RiCrAr,
I must admit I think Richard learned his lesson in not reading the script properly - didn't take note of the director's scene notes - in BTS. I think he had his fingers burned (or maybe another extremity perhaps?) by not paying attention fully. To be honest I think Fifty Shades of Grey will be basically a porno movie, and not much else.(Only so much huffing and puffing a gal can take!) I think I'll stick with my mantra that Richard will make a wonderful James Bond.
Sue,
Well, I hadn't quite thought of it in that context. I was thinking more of dominance and submission as it applies to the workplace -- who would like to take the role of submissive today?
But the boardroom table. Hum. There's an idea. I suppose it requires the right partner. Of course, I play the role of nun these days, but my back is fine.
LOL..There you go Sue, if your back isn't up to the boardroom table, Cleo sounds as though she's willing to substitute. As for me, there was a time, as newlyweds, when a tile bathroom floor even looked inviting. *Can't believe I just typed that;*D
Have you read 50 Shades of Grey, Cleo? I suspect not-so-innocent Sue has at least taken a peek - of course, only to see what the fuss is all about:)
The novel still seems to be a fav topic of discussion for many American/Brit women. In fact, last night we were invited to attend a local appearance by Scottish comedian(now American)Craig Ferguson. His warm-up comedian did a skit on 50 Shades - the female half of the audience howled with delight. Majority of men looked puzzled, as though they were missing the joke - and they probably were.
RA's fans on twitter continue to speculate whether the Richard III rumors are credible. Consensus seems to be that this is the right time for the actor to take advantage of his professional momentum going into The Hobbit movie premiere.
RA's career decisions have always been exactly on target - each one kept him moving professionally forward - therefore, would not be surprised if he is capitalizing on the current Thorin buzz.
Very nice, Ricrar! :) Was the tile bathroom floor particularly grimy? That would make it even a better story. I hope that all newly weds are that lucky!
As for 50 Shades of Grey -- no, I have not seen it. But I will take a look on your advice. I hope it is particularly hot and sweaty, because I don't get to read much outside of my field. Been reading about gender politics in Hizbullah in Lebanon, and social structure in Yemen of late... Something hot and sweaty would be a welcomed intervention.....
:) :)
No, cleo, it was freshly scrubbed. haha Kinkiness doesn't need to carry germs;D
As a matter of fact, I do not recommend 50 Shades of Grey. It's really poorly written - an insult to your brain:D It seems downright pitiful that millions of women don't have vivid enough imaginations to enjoy the sizzling possibilities for an equal partnership between a woman and man. The latter, done correctly, is spectacularly more delish than the tired old whips and bondage fan-fiction phenomenon.
If you really want one of your screenplays, etc to rocket to the top of females "must read" list, I'd recommend you go back and insert some well-written erotic sex scenes. Feed their hunger and they will come! That always seemed to be Richard's modus operandi when it came to furthering his professional prospects, and it resulted in a starring role in what could be 2012 film with the largest profit margin. That's what happened with Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings series of films.
As for gender politics in the MidEast - my initial reaction is to feel great sympathy for the women in that region of the world. The feeling occurs as a result of knowing they must endure intimacy with what look to me to be the most unattractive males walking the earth. Not a politically correct statement, but a truthful one.
It's an outrage that women throughout the world have not risen up in one voice to condemn the mistreatment of their sisters in the Muslim world. Hopefully any courageous men in that area will find some way soon to protect those with the least power in that particular culture. How could an area on the globe, in the 21st century, be so dismal and brutally medieval?
Is a tile bathroom floor kinky? I'm not so sure. Now, a pool table, that would be kinky!! (And it would most likely also involve germs.)
As to erotic scenes, I have thus far avoided writing them except for some very introductory scenes, with the rest "omitted," for one short story. Even the Cleopatra screen play has no reference to sex, except in the description of cultural context, character development, and the like, in which it is purely an academic discussion. I can't really post erotic scenes on my writing site, as students (or their parents!) might find their way there. But I am certainly able to write such scenes. (hee hee)
:) :)
I keep avoid your women and politics in the Middle East comments. Sorry, Ricrar! It's such a tricky question. There are a lot of parts of the Middle East, and a lot of families in the Middle East, where women have significant power. It is usually located within the family, where they can be very powerful, indeed. I think it is safe to say, we almost never hear about that in the West. And we, as women, no longer have much power within the family, where our society is much more male-centric than the Middle East, believe it or not. The woman is a very important center of power in the family there. As a single mom in the U.S. I can tell you, even holding a professor job, it's a shitty place to be a single mom. You're much better off, most of the time, as a single mom within your community in the Middle East. They have their terrible misogynists. However, I believe they are few in number. They just skew public behavior for everyone else (like all tyrants). But there's a great feature film about women in Beruit, directed by a Lebanese woman, that does a great job of showing how women really live in some parts of the Middle East -- affairs out of wedlock, and the works. (The idea that people don't have sex in the Middle East is just wrong -- they just keep it very private.) So some of it is, we get bad information. And some of it is real. The film is CARAMEL. It's great. I also recommend Lara Deeb's book, THE ENCHANTED MODERN. Very interesting take on women's roles within transforming the religion itself (a powerful role, indeed) in Shi'a Lebanon. Fun read, too. My students are loving it!
I'm sorry to hear it, Cleo, if you feel you've lack of power. I thought academia set a priority on empowering women. Was it all words backed up with little action? Honestly, my observation is that liberal men are definitely more misogynist than they pretend to be.
Just look at the way Hillary Clinton was treated when she dared to expect to be repaid for her loyalty to the Dem Party. She endured excruciating humiliation by staying with her husband after the Monica affair, and I'm sure she did it for the good of their political party. Yet, when it came time for her to receive her reward, she was shunned, mistreated and rejected in order to run a minority male. That to me sent the message "liberal men talk the talk when it comes to womens equal rights, but they don't walk the walk when given the chance."
Actually, it appers Hillary has finally lost patience with what's expected of her as a handmaiden for the Dem Prez. The State Department today distanced itself from the White House by saying they never blamed the film for the attack that killed ambassador Stevens in Libya. Will be interesting to see how it plays out in future days.
I've always felt life in general provided me with a great deal of personal power. From teen years I've always been a strong advocate for womens rights and raised a daughter who has taken great pride in being independent for many years. Within past couple years, someone came into her life who seems to be her soulmate. They're very happy together. No doubt you'll experience the same happenstance someday, if that's what you want in life. In the meantime, it sounds as though you're a wonderful, loving mother who is also raising a strong daughter. Keep up the great work:)
As for MidEastern families - to my mind it isn't enough for females to have power behind closed doors. Those women deserve recognition and equal rights just as much as those of us in the West. Here's to the day when they can finally throw away the ugly burqas and confidently walk with their heads held high - in equal partnerships with their husbands.
I AM a wonderful mother raising a very strong daughter :). Thank so much you for saying it, Ricrar! You are very kind! :)
I am very powerful, but it is internal. There is more resistance than one might expect in the 21st century. I have found that academic men are like Israeli men or Muslim-Arab men; they're some of the most truly illuminated, enlightened men I know. (And some of the least.)
You have to remember, too, that I am living at the southern edge of the Bible belt. That is to say: we still have Klan here. I protested against them face to face as an undergraduate student in the 1980s. Now I live in rural Florida (with my horses), so, there you go. They don't like single women, or anyone who tans well (I fit into both categories). They will vandalize your private property, mess with your animals, and do so over a long periods of time to intimidate. Fortunately, I'm too much of a pain in the patootie to intimdate easily. I guess I am just saying that I am coming from a context that reminds me every day that it is not only in the Middle East that some people have problems with women's autonomy.
As for Hillary -- I am one of these rare ultra-leftie feminists who has "likes" on both Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin. As my daughter says, "Rockin' my girl power!" And I value Hillary's decision not to break up her family and marriage over a trifle. Just watched Dave Chapelle last night ( on -- wah-hoo! cable!!!). He was AWESOME on the Lewinsky affair. So funny. Something like, you know you're famous when you can make someone else famous just through an act like that :) :)
As for finding that ideal, magic soulmate and equal partnership that you keep mentioning -- I won't be looking for it amongst the Klan. I've been waiting for my husband for twenty years! You just let him know I'm here :) :) :)
RiCrAr,
I think Richard is pretty shrewd when deciding what acting roles to accept, although I think having a good agent to guide him has been the main force behind his success. Of course he now has a wider choice of acting work, at the beginning I suspect he may well have taken anything that was offered, whether that meant revealing those peaches or not (within reason).
I don't think he is getting involved with the Richard III dig or consulting anyone about his script. In fact I doubt his dream will ever come to fruition, but then you never know.
I'm with you RiCrAr, Uhtred from Lords of the North would be my choice of character for Richard. It would be an ideal role for him. In the book there was so much tongue in cheek humour, that I think it would suit Richard down to the ground. That character would certainly have a twinkle in his eye.
Cleo, are you sure you're looking in the right places for an interesting date? There isn't anywhere in the USA where you cannot find at least a few good men.*might make a good movie title:*)
I truly don't understand why any female is an ultra leftie. Liberal men, who obviously are in control of the Dem Party, simply use women as their handmaidens to do all the political grunt work for them, then when it's time for them to award her the grand prize she deserves, they are so totally misogynist that they cannot grant it to her.
Here again - the following statement is the truth but for those who follow the fervent politically correct liberal religion, they will be aghast it's being said:
Gays comprise a huge part of the Democrat Party base. Many are successful and make huge donations to the liberal cause. BUT, evidently the majority of them find it distasteful to actually make a woman their standard bearer. They've become ever more politically aggressive, and with their downright abusive treatment of Hillary Clinton, it's more than obvious their agenda has pushed the Left more radically Left than it has ever been before.
Few more weeks to go and we'll see if they manage to push their struggling candidate over the finish line this time. I doubt that will happen.
They should be outraged at the way Obama and Hillary refused extra security for Libyan ambassador Stevens. His trust in them was definitely misplaced. When his life was on the line, they literally hung him out to die rather than take a chance on offending the delicate feelings of the Libyans they *thought* they had befriended. Liberals are always dangerously naive in matters of national(in Steven case personal) security. 4 more years of Obama will make our children far less secure.
Sue, it sounds as though you don't believe any of the Richard III rumors currently swirling around RA world.
Why might Richard have taken the Black Sky role? Strictly financial perhaps? Maybe he used it as a way of fulfilling dreams of owning his own NZ grape vineyard, or that private hideaway ski chateau in France - he mentioned the latter a few yrs back.
I don't look for dates anymore, Ricrar. Alas, I have found that it is not worth it. I have four beautiful horses and a beautiful daughter. I have taken to Rumi's solution, which is to write love poetry to God. I figure, if he can do it, I can :) :) (Hence the name of my writing blog: "Ruminations.") You see, I mean it, I really am a nun these days. Just without the vows, or the habit....or the convent....
I agree with you on most leftist men. Not true of all of them. But a lot would fall into the category of "New England Liberals," as you describe: everyone should have their freedom, but not in my backyard. I'm further left of them, in the sense that real freedom for everyone matters. And I'm further right of some of the right wing -- in a libertarian sort of way. I don't fit on the American spectrum very well. The American political spectrum is extraordinarily narrow. Just look at Europe to know that.
I do find that love stories and fairy tales and spys killing the bad guys is a wonderful alternative to all of the above :)
Problem is that most European countries are falling off financial cliffs, Cleo. Their politicians promised them more than their economies can deliver. IMO, when given too many political choices countries end up in deadlock. Never fully appreciated why a two party system is more efficient, but somehow it is:) It comes down to one basic decision in our presidential elections. Do we want an every growing government that stifles private sector jobs, or do we want an ever growing economy that thereby creates more jobs and prosperity for everyone?
Did you watch tonight's VP debate? If so, who in your opinion won it?
What are the names of your 4 horses? I'm amazed that you have so many. Richard's horse for Robin Hood was named Richie.
Morning, Ricrar. My horses are Star ("Starlight Omara," a large appaloosa roan pony); Baby Doll (a blanket appaloosa pony); Tara ("Taracea," who my daughter sometimes calls "Cupcake" and I sometimes call "Kapadokya" -- she's a half-Andalusian horse); and our newest addition, Ginger (a part-Arabian horse). I have pictures of them up on my facebook site (it's public -- you can find it through: pjwoods2@facebook.com).
I'm all for a strong economy. Single moms, or any family living on a single income, will be very concerned with a strong economy. The whole world is in a depression (in my opinion, "recession" is a nicety). But countries like Germany and Israel do fine with some socialist support nets for their citizens, combined with a regular, capitalist economy. Of course, they're efficient with their taxes. I would never trust American politicians to manage more tax money than they already get.
My issue with the way American politicians talk about the economy is that, on both sides of the aisle, they don't know what they're talking about. We have not had a free market since somewhere around the Silk Route. There has been no western economy since the establishment of the late-modern state (that is, the last two hundred years or so) that has not been significantly tied to the state. Western capitalism rose to what it is with (some say in cahoots with) the new form of state that is the nation-state. It's just an historical fact. So, I am all for a free market, but these politicians don't even know what a free market is.
There has only been one administration in forty years that has balanced the budget in the U.S. That is the Clinton administration. All other spin around that is just that. Spin. I couldn't stand Clinton. But he knew the economy, as did Greenspan.
We have had three market crashes in just over twenty years in this country (1987, 2000, and 2008). Two (1987 and 2008) came at the tail end or in the middle of a Republican administration. One (2000) came at the tail end of a Democratic administration, as it looked like Bush would win. I think the problem is that our politicians are so ensconced in arguing that they do not bother to learn. As an academic who did my Ph.D. with two comparative political-economists (scholars who study the link between politics and economics around the world), it is very frustrating to me. There is also the problem that many economists get too caught up in politics to give accurate evaluations themselves. Economists tend not to pay attention to history -- the empirical, structural history of the economy and the state -- so everyone attaches themselves to their favorite economist, who is probably wrong also. (There is a whole academic literature on the political history of these debates between economists -- they are very politicized, not neutral, mathematical arbiters.)
I am all for a free market. But I am not sure how many politicians are willing to go back to travel with camels and tents. In the late-modern era, there is no capitalism without ties to the state (as an historical, empirical reality). I think the U.S., actually, usually does a pretty good job of it. Our problem, in my view, is to start enforcing the laws that exist and putting white collar criminals in jail rather than patting them on the heads and asking them to please stop stealing people’s 401K funds.
Ryan: Too much reasoning by intensity. I never trust that.
With all of that in mind, that may be why I so appreciate the images of true love and justice that RA does such a nice job of offering as an alternative -- at least for a few hours of film.
RiCrAr,
I think Richard accepted the role of Black Sky because it would raise his profile in America (I believe he means to conquer the US, or die trying, as most actors do). I don't believe it will have been a terribly strong script, disaster movies never are. Although I'm sure Richard will have done the best he could with it.
I think as filming was fairly short it may have also fitted in nicely with his other acting commitments. He seems to like keeping busy, busy, busy.
He may well have his eye on a ski lodge in France and so any work he can fit in will obviously add to the coffers. They are expensive too, but you can't beat investing in property at the moment and will probably get a good deal with the current economic climate. He needs a bolt hole so that he can escape and recharge his batteries when the need arises, blow the cobwebs away.
Cleo, first of all - Pres Clinton managed to balance the budget by cooperating with the Republican congress, which was in control of both houses. Clinton moved further to the right than any Democrat president in history in order to drastically reduce corrupt welfare programs and lower tax rates. That triggered a growing economy because it created the correct business climate necessary for the job creators in the US, which are small businesses, to expand their workforce. That led to properity for everyone. That has always been the Republican economic philosophy. So, even though Democrat Clinton rarely admits it, he is marinating in the glory of financial accomplishments he should honestly share with the Republican congress. Our future Pres Romney said he intends to work with Democrats in order to solve major US problems - that's exactly what he did as Governor of Massachusetts.
As for capitalism and the free market, the Industrial Revolution lifted multi-millions out of poverty. Capitalism is the economic system that produces positive results for everyone. Socialism/Communism have failed wherever they have been tried. They simply lead to more poverty.
Very nice response, Ricrar. Very finessed :). You should consider running for office! Maybe you could talk some sense into these folks, get them working together instead of battling over who done who wrong.
As for industrialization, I am not against industrialization (well, maybe I am against industrialization :) ), but I am certainly not in favor of full-fledge socialism or communism. Those come all too often with an authoritarian state, which is the bane of my existence and my personal whipping boy, intellectually. I'm just saying -- we've never had a truly free market in the late-modern, western state. The politicians are arguing about points on a spectrum of state involvement in the economy. They all want state involvement, just in different directions. The "free market" language annoys me, because I would be perfectly happy to go back to the Silk Route :), but none of them admits that's where you have to go for a truly free market :).
Thanks for your response, by the way. I'm always nervous sharing my personal political opinions (we try to avoid that like the plague in my part of poli sci). Like the new pix, as always :)
I know Cleo, it's considered gauche to discuss religion and politics - most people say they avoid both subjects like the plague:) BUT, as far as I'm concerned they're two of the most meaningful topics humans can talk about and in my case, very difficult to avoid.(*learned politics on my daddy's knee, married a man who's just as keenly interested - then started a political forum that is currently buzzing like a bee hive:*) The next 4 wks are our high season;D
Agreed with your remark earlier that Richard's dramas have a calming effect and provide a great escape from the daily grind.
Have you watched any of his lesser roles so far? I'd recommend The Impressionists first, then Sparkhouse.
Yes, Sue, in fact Richard is probably currently blowing away those cobwebs in some peaceful corner of the world, if not right here in one of our busiest cities.
He's still the phantom celebrity - manages to travel without being recognized, but I don't expect he'll enjoy that luxury after the first Hobbit movie premieres. After that he'd best be prepared to be recognized once it's necessary for him to order dinner or check into a hotel, walk through an airport - someone will no doubt ask "Didn't you play Thorin in The Hobbit?"
He'll dislike the thought of losing privacy, but when it comes to fame they quickly learn to accept the personal disadvantages with the huge professional advantages.
Considering Black Sky was filmed so quickly, hopefully that means we won't need to wait too long after "An Unexpect Journey" to see him as a soaked, wind blown school teacher. Honestly, I'm looking forward to the disaster film more than The Hobbit - fantasy is my least fav genre for books,movies.
Hi, Ricrar. You are very kind :). I don't usually allow myself to delve into American politics. (I have a regional specialty: Middle East and Israel. I try my best to stick to that -- like Eliza and Henry Higgins sticking to the weather!)
I have seen The Impressionists. Wonderful. It just shows his range. There is something heart-wrenching about it for me. The others I can watch over and over. Not sure why. I have not seen Sparkhouse. How is it available?
I watched "The Rise of the Planet of the Apes" with my daughter recently (I think I mentioned, she's 8.5). Out of all of the areas that might suggest suspension of disbelief, what does she comment on? The human protagonist steals a police car, and she asks, "Wait, in real life, are humans supposed to drive cop cars??" Perhaps RA might consider the 8-9 year old set in determining some of his acting choices. (She, for example, loved North and South -- except for the kissing. I sold it to her as a lesson on industrialization. Speak of the devil!)
P.S. Thanks for the very gracious opportunity to vent on one of my areas of existential frustration: capitalism and the late-modern state :) :)
RiCrAr,
I think the fact that TH is basically a film for kids (in theory at least) then maybe he won't be recognised too often when travelling around. Although I'm guessing the mums will enjoy watching Thorin as much as the kids (if not more!)
I'm not really into the TH kind of films, but it will be interesting to see what kind of a fist he makes of the film Black Sky (lots of wet t-shirt scenes, hopefully).
Who knows maybe Richard is planning on staying in the US and has purchased or rented an apartment somewhere. He may well be coming to a Starbucks near you!!!!
I miss seeing Richard on the box, hopefully his next roll will be a TV one.
Wet t-shirt scenes - Looked more like wet suit scenes to me - am counting on the twister ripping teacher Gary's shirt off, at least one time;) We don't really ask for much as RA fans, do we:) Simple things such as one shirtless scene satisfies us for quite awhile. Been on a starvation diet forever in that category.
Most we can hope for in The Hobbit is for Thorin to remove his heavy blue coat..perhaps the giant spiders will do that before they roll him into their webs. Ooooh, Sue, can almost hear your imagination entertaining the thought of "rolling Richard into your web";D
RiCrAr,
You're right the image of Richard being caught up in my web sends a tingle down my spine.
"Come into my parlour said the spider to the fly"
The phrase "A lamb to the slaughter", also springs to mind. Poor Richard he wouldn't know what hit him!
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