I've stood by for several weeks observing the political plays that have been occurring in DC. I've been idle for the most part. Accepting that Republicans and especially the Tea Party are willing to risk anything and everything, to not let legislature pass that may in the slightest of ways give President Obama and more importantly, this country, the slightest of victory. In their opinion, if this country fails, then Obama fails. This is an acceptable risk. Most Americans have come to this realizations and as a result the predominately Republican House of Congress has the lowest approval rating in history, 10%. I've been mostly silent during the debates on how to decrease the deficit and how to create jobs. Republicans are stuck believing that America is on the right track. The president did some math and finally said what everyone has been thinking for the past two years; we need to end these tax breaks and increase the taxes rates on the wealthy. At the very least they need to meet or match the other tax brackets. There are far too many loopholes that can be exploited by the wealthy, and they often are.
Where am I going with this? A few days ago Republicans and Fox News started accusing President Obama of trying to wage class warfare with his million dollar tax plans. People like Paul Ryan are saying it is bad for the economy to raise the taxes on those making over a million dollars a year. "Why burden the job creators?" They ask. There is a reason Obama is calling this the "Buffett Tax Rule". Jimmy Buffett has openly admitted that his secretary pays more in taxes than he does. And he knows that isn't fair or right. It's been reported that over 7,000 millionaires did not pay any taxes last year. Obviously there is something wrong here! Recent polls suggest 63% of Americans believe taxes need to be raised on corporations and the rich. So the rich are worried about having to pay their share of taxes and claim this is class warfare. Poor choice of words. This rubs me the wrong way.
Class warfare is what we have been watching for decades. The lower and middle classes in this country have been under attack for a very long time. No one likes to point it out though. This country is constantly run by people who care about keeping the wealthiest people rich and the poorest people poor. And when it comes right down to it, this country has focused on keeping minorities poor. I feel like every time anything passes in Washington it has the richest peoples interest at heart. As a country we don't have a problem sweeping the poor under our rugs, but not before taking every cent of theirs we can.
Minorities in this country are less likely to get a decent education, job, housing, or even a fair trial. As a child I thought things like "No Child Left Behind" was a great idea. "Hey we all get the same tests and if we do good our school get's more new computers next year". At least that's how we explained it to kids. But does that really make sense? How in the world did anyone spin the argument that we should give more funding to schools that have better test scores. Because that will hold teachers accountable. Really? I know far too many teachers to know that no matter how or what they teach there are far too many variables to hold teachers accountable for these test scores. By granting more funding to schools with better grades we are simply increasing the gap between the poor schools in rough neighborhoods and the wealthy schools in great neighborhoods. That's like saying, "Hey, you are a cop in Cary NC. There is hardly any crime in Cary! Congrats. That must mean you are doing a great job. Here's your raise this year! Well hey there cop in Durham. Looks like there's still lots of crime in Durham, so ... expect to make less money next year. Sorry. But we need to pour more money into this other department that has a pretty cake job!" If something is struggling you don't pull the resources from it, you have to actually give it more resources. What's the outcome of this? Something similar to the 178 teachers in 44 Atlanta schools that felt so threatened by their principals with pressure to produce scores for funding that they cheated on tests and changed answers for students.
I know this is just one small example, but there are just so many out there. Class warfare. How about that the country has privatized prison systems. That's right. There are prisons that are basically corporations that get funding per person being locked up. So now what happens? We go around locking up more and more people for lesser and lesser crimes so the prisons can meet their quotas. Do I think the prison system needs to drain tax money, of course not. But a prison should not be focused on being a "for profit business". I'm almost certain they should be used to rehabilitate criminals and deter the masses from wanting to be locked up. Fromer Chairman of the Tennessee Republican Party and CCA founder Thomas Beasley compared locking up human beings to selling cars, real estate, or hamburgers. Even if you are erroneously locked up and freed these corporations still earn money for your arrest and detention. This increases false imprisonments for profit. This is a 5 Billion Dollars a year business and states that have privatized prisons have a much higher arrest rate for petty crimes, especially amongst minorities, most of which have been proven to be false.
So the president wants the rich to pay their fair share in taxes... that's class warfare. You accuse the president of appealing to Americans fear, envy, and anxiety. The words fear, envy, and anxiety mean different things to these "high class" politicians and the middle and lower class American Citizens. All those words translate to "money" for politicians. For the poor in this country they are every day emotions they face when they wake up and are bussed to schools that are under funded, locked up for crimes that are insignificant, just to be profited from, they are discriminated against in the media and in every branch of our government. For decades this country has passed legislation with one simple goal. To keep the rich comfortable and to keep the poor struggling. The trickle down effect if you will. We can make all the money we want and the change will find its way down to the common folk. Class warfare is nothing new in this nation. But before you accuse the president take a look at history.
Corporate-ocrasy, what a hypocrisy!
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
B.E.S.T. Man Competition
A week ago a few friends and I were doing some late night hanging out. As usual this consisted mostly of a couple of drinks, some NHL action on the XBOX, lots of talking, and even more laughter. Then things took a turn for the interesting.
I believe it started when I complained of being ridiculously sore from the previews night's lifting at the gym and then things escalated rather quickly. Before you know it the four of us are talking about what we need to work on most at the gym and what we excel at. We quickly realized that two of us, myself and Buddy, lift a lot but really need to improve on the cardio. The other two, Stew and Elijah, are ridiculous at cardio and wish they could lift more. Naturally, being the competition obsessed idiots we are, words like, "competition" and "contest" made their way into the conversation rather quickly. We decided that we needed some kind of competition.
We would team up, 2 on 2, and after a month of training we would compete to see which team would win some kind of competition. But before we could come up with what exactly the competition is comprised of, we had the more important task of naming said event. Didn't take long at all. We were after all in a competition to see who was BEST and we are all men... ohh... and our names are Buddy, Elijah, Stew, and Thor. B.E.S.T. See what we did there. And that's how the B.E.S.T. Man Competition started. After much discussion on what would take place during this competition we decided on a couple of things. The contest would be split between lifting and cardio. Individual scores will be added to the team, for a team winner. There are 2 cardio contests. The quarter mile sprint and the 3 mile race around Lake Johnson. Not really looking forward to that. We take the race times for a time score. The quarter mile sprint counts double. So, for example. Let's say the quarter mile sprint takes you 1:30 seconds. You have a score of 3:00. Then you add that to your lake race... let's say that's 30 minutes. Now your personal score is 33:00. Add that to your team mates score. Now we factor in the lifting. Bench Press, Leg Press, and Lat Pull. You put on as much weight as you want (minimum half your weight) and do as many reps as you can in one minute. So, for example, on the weight bench you put up 100lbs 30 times in one minute, you moved 3000 pounds. Same goes for all the other weight exercises. Now, for every 1,000 pounds you "move" during the weight exercises you subtract 1 minute off your "time score" from the cardio events. So the idea is to have the lowest team time score. Easy enough.
This friendly competition is serving as some great inspiration. Regardless what the outcome may be we are all focusing on more rounded trips to the gym, and that's the real goal. My times are showing some decent improvement just in the last week. I probably won't post about the winners or specifics of the outcome but I'm sure it'll be "fun". Anyways, the events take place on or around October 1st. There will be trophies.
I believe it started when I complained of being ridiculously sore from the previews night's lifting at the gym and then things escalated rather quickly. Before you know it the four of us are talking about what we need to work on most at the gym and what we excel at. We quickly realized that two of us, myself and Buddy, lift a lot but really need to improve on the cardio. The other two, Stew and Elijah, are ridiculous at cardio and wish they could lift more. Naturally, being the competition obsessed idiots we are, words like, "competition" and "contest" made their way into the conversation rather quickly. We decided that we needed some kind of competition.
We would team up, 2 on 2, and after a month of training we would compete to see which team would win some kind of competition. But before we could come up with what exactly the competition is comprised of, we had the more important task of naming said event. Didn't take long at all. We were after all in a competition to see who was BEST and we are all men... ohh... and our names are Buddy, Elijah, Stew, and Thor. B.E.S.T. See what we did there. And that's how the B.E.S.T. Man Competition started. After much discussion on what would take place during this competition we decided on a couple of things. The contest would be split between lifting and cardio. Individual scores will be added to the team, for a team winner. There are 2 cardio contests. The quarter mile sprint and the 3 mile race around Lake Johnson. Not really looking forward to that. We take the race times for a time score. The quarter mile sprint counts double. So, for example. Let's say the quarter mile sprint takes you 1:30 seconds. You have a score of 3:00. Then you add that to your lake race... let's say that's 30 minutes. Now your personal score is 33:00. Add that to your team mates score. Now we factor in the lifting. Bench Press, Leg Press, and Lat Pull. You put on as much weight as you want (minimum half your weight) and do as many reps as you can in one minute. So, for example, on the weight bench you put up 100lbs 30 times in one minute, you moved 3000 pounds. Same goes for all the other weight exercises. Now, for every 1,000 pounds you "move" during the weight exercises you subtract 1 minute off your "time score" from the cardio events. So the idea is to have the lowest team time score. Easy enough.
This friendly competition is serving as some great inspiration. Regardless what the outcome may be we are all focusing on more rounded trips to the gym, and that's the real goal. My times are showing some decent improvement just in the last week. I probably won't post about the winners or specifics of the outcome but I'm sure it'll be "fun". Anyways, the events take place on or around October 1st. There will be trophies.
Friday, August 19, 2011
I've Lost 50 Pounds! So... There's that!
As many of you have noticed, I've shed a bit of weight over the last several months. I've actually lost 50 pounds. Yes. 50. I am pretty happy about that. It certainly hasn't been easy.
I am doing it the hard way. And by that, I mean the right way. I am eating much healthier and exercising a bunch. Water is my most consumed beverage and I find myself inside a gym about 8-10 times a week. I hardly ever find myself at fast food establishments. I have goals and I am determined to reach them.
My brother Thomas asked me tonight, "why now?". Several months ago someone looked me in the eyes and told me how she was worried about my health. I looked her back in her eyes as she tried holding back her tears. It was incredibly tough for both of us. There was a lot of emotions going through me at that time. I was embarrassed and felt uneasy but mostly I felt loved. In all my life I don't think I have ever had someone actually care for me that way. I can't thank her enough for that. What she did was incredibly tough. After that conversation I became very serious about my health goals. Unfortunately things didn't work out for us. The gym ended up being a great distraction for my heartache, and sadly, it still is.
There are a few more people that deserve many thanks. A lot of my friends have noticed and cheer me on, none more than my roommates. Both of them are "gym rats" and I am glad to now consider myself one. Elijah is insane. He will go to the gym with me any hour of the day which makes it that much easier. He thinks I'm crazy too for going to the gym literally every day. If I don't make it before work, I go after work, even if it is at 3am. And sometimes I'll go before and after work. He is always willing to join me. Sometimes it is fun. But, obviously this is very tiring.
It's also annoying that clothes I've recently bought are too big now and I don't want to purchase new clothing because I don't plan on fitting in them very long. I'm pretty sure I'm ok with this! I've got a bit to go but it feels good knowing I am heading the right direction. I currently weigh less than I did in High School. Hell, I weigh less than I have in over a decade!
So there you have it. My first health post. I'd write a bit more... but there's a gym calling out to me!
I am doing it the hard way. And by that, I mean the right way. I am eating much healthier and exercising a bunch. Water is my most consumed beverage and I find myself inside a gym about 8-10 times a week. I hardly ever find myself at fast food establishments. I have goals and I am determined to reach them.
My brother Thomas asked me tonight, "why now?". Several months ago someone looked me in the eyes and told me how she was worried about my health. I looked her back in her eyes as she tried holding back her tears. It was incredibly tough for both of us. There was a lot of emotions going through me at that time. I was embarrassed and felt uneasy but mostly I felt loved. In all my life I don't think I have ever had someone actually care for me that way. I can't thank her enough for that. What she did was incredibly tough. After that conversation I became very serious about my health goals. Unfortunately things didn't work out for us. The gym ended up being a great distraction for my heartache, and sadly, it still is.
There are a few more people that deserve many thanks. A lot of my friends have noticed and cheer me on, none more than my roommates. Both of them are "gym rats" and I am glad to now consider myself one. Elijah is insane. He will go to the gym with me any hour of the day which makes it that much easier. He thinks I'm crazy too for going to the gym literally every day. If I don't make it before work, I go after work, even if it is at 3am. And sometimes I'll go before and after work. He is always willing to join me. Sometimes it is fun. But, obviously this is very tiring.
It's also annoying that clothes I've recently bought are too big now and I don't want to purchase new clothing because I don't plan on fitting in them very long. I'm pretty sure I'm ok with this! I've got a bit to go but it feels good knowing I am heading the right direction. I currently weigh less than I did in High School. Hell, I weigh less than I have in over a decade!
So there you have it. My first health post. I'd write a bit more... but there's a gym calling out to me!
Friday, August 12, 2011
Government/Politics Part 1.
Disclaimer:
I should state a few facts before I get into some opinions. Some of these facts include that I am not American. That is pretty well known. I can't vote, therefore I don't. Having said that, I do consider myself closest to a Democrat. I contribute financially and volunteer my time for the party.
For the last three years I've watched this country change. I remember when people would disagree with policies, politics, ideas and not just a person. When you stood for an idea and you stood by it. It didn't matter who agreed with you or who came up with the idea if someone said something and you liked it you let it be known. Now it seems that people don't disagree with ideas, they disagree with people. Ironically enough "change" was the platform that my "hopeful" president ran under. I don't, however, feel this is the change he had in mind. I think he had a vision and a goal to make this country great again. To change the politics game and to make Americans proud to call themselves Americans when traveling abroad. But mostly I think he wanted to make sure everyone was happy, healthy, and safe.
The biggest example I could use is health care. Most of America agreed with presidential candidate Obama's ideas and platform. He excited a country with his speeches that sparked the idea of brotherhood, hard work, determination, and general kindness in people. The American people were excited. He had a charisma that had others' looking inside themselves and asking, "can I be a better person and make this a better country?" and the people responded, "yes we can". When Obama won the 2008 Presidential Election he didn't just make history, he inspired generations and he will continue to inspire for generations after his term has ended. Shortly after being elected Obama passed his health care reform. I thought it was fantastic. It meant more health insurance and medicine for more people. I thought to myself, how could I, or anyone, be against this. Laws were passed to protect Americans from getting dropped when they needed insurance the most and to make it easier for the poor to afford insurance. And yet, this "Christian Nation" decided to fight tooth and nail against one of their basic principles. To look out for their neighbors. Instead everyone decided they would rather look out for their wallets and bank accounts.
Folks, I'm a 28 year old male who gets by just fine in my life. I'm not rich and far from wealthy but I make enough to pay my bills and have some fun on my days off. But I've come from humble beginnings and had, at times, a rough childhood. I was raised by a single mother (for the most part) who didn't even have a U.S. High School diploma and had to work multiple jobs to make ends meet. I was thankful for any assistance the government provided. I've come to a point in my life where now I can give to those that need more than I do. And frankly I am embarrassed that so many people are against the idea of "communist medicine". I have health insurance and I hardly ever used it. Honestly, in my 10+ years of my "adult health insurance having life" I've used it twice. But I'm happy it is there. I would gladly pay a little more out of my pocket in taxes to know that some poor family who can't afford medicine can get the treatment they need. I don't think health care should be a luxury of the rich but a right to every person living. That's just my opinion.
Where is all this going? Back to opposing people, not ideas. When I listen to people spew hatred for Obama it saddens me. Sure, I disagreed with the policies of the Bush administration on several occasions but it was the ideas I didn't like, not the person. I can say that knowing it is the truth. When I witness with my own eyes blatantly obvious thinly veiled racism in the media, government, and even amongst friends and people I know it makes me sad. This is not the change I was hoping for. If you didn't have any problem raising the debt ceiling a dozen times why all the sudden is it the worst possible thing to do for this country?
The worst thing for me is hearing people cry about how Obama is caving in to Republicans and leaning more and more to the right. You mean he is trying to make everyone happy? Isn't that the point? The Republicans, in my opinion, have made it very clear that their number one goal is making Obama a one term president, no matter what the cost. It is so clear that Republicans can't even pick a good candidate to run against Obama, but all they do is try to discredit him. Is that good for the American people? Why don't we make your number one goal to work together and fix the problems this nation is facing?
The tea party. The saddest and funniest thing I've seen in a while. "We don't want change! We like the country the way it is! ... Our president hasn't done SHIT! He hasn't done anything for anyone! sooooo.... We're good then right? You guys should be happy? One second you cry about how this country has fallen to pieces and the second someone agrees with you you cry, "this is the greatest country ever don't you ever say anything unkind about ahmurka!
You have given birth to "birthers" and countless other ideas to try and discredit the president. It is quite sad.
To end this, and believe me, I really could go on for days and welcome any discussion to follow, I will state that I have high hopes for this country. Though I do believe that Obama has brought out the worst in a lot of people I also believe he is bringing out the good in a lot of people. I commend the president for his efforts and will continue to support him.
I should state a few facts before I get into some opinions. Some of these facts include that I am not American. That is pretty well known. I can't vote, therefore I don't. Having said that, I do consider myself closest to a Democrat. I contribute financially and volunteer my time for the party.
For the last three years I've watched this country change. I remember when people would disagree with policies, politics, ideas and not just a person. When you stood for an idea and you stood by it. It didn't matter who agreed with you or who came up with the idea if someone said something and you liked it you let it be known. Now it seems that people don't disagree with ideas, they disagree with people. Ironically enough "change" was the platform that my "hopeful" president ran under. I don't, however, feel this is the change he had in mind. I think he had a vision and a goal to make this country great again. To change the politics game and to make Americans proud to call themselves Americans when traveling abroad. But mostly I think he wanted to make sure everyone was happy, healthy, and safe.
The biggest example I could use is health care. Most of America agreed with presidential candidate Obama's ideas and platform. He excited a country with his speeches that sparked the idea of brotherhood, hard work, determination, and general kindness in people. The American people were excited. He had a charisma that had others' looking inside themselves and asking, "can I be a better person and make this a better country?" and the people responded, "yes we can". When Obama won the 2008 Presidential Election he didn't just make history, he inspired generations and he will continue to inspire for generations after his term has ended. Shortly after being elected Obama passed his health care reform. I thought it was fantastic. It meant more health insurance and medicine for more people. I thought to myself, how could I, or anyone, be against this. Laws were passed to protect Americans from getting dropped when they needed insurance the most and to make it easier for the poor to afford insurance. And yet, this "Christian Nation" decided to fight tooth and nail against one of their basic principles. To look out for their neighbors. Instead everyone decided they would rather look out for their wallets and bank accounts.
Folks, I'm a 28 year old male who gets by just fine in my life. I'm not rich and far from wealthy but I make enough to pay my bills and have some fun on my days off. But I've come from humble beginnings and had, at times, a rough childhood. I was raised by a single mother (for the most part) who didn't even have a U.S. High School diploma and had to work multiple jobs to make ends meet. I was thankful for any assistance the government provided. I've come to a point in my life where now I can give to those that need more than I do. And frankly I am embarrassed that so many people are against the idea of "communist medicine". I have health insurance and I hardly ever used it. Honestly, in my 10+ years of my "adult health insurance having life" I've used it twice. But I'm happy it is there. I would gladly pay a little more out of my pocket in taxes to know that some poor family who can't afford medicine can get the treatment they need. I don't think health care should be a luxury of the rich but a right to every person living. That's just my opinion.
Where is all this going? Back to opposing people, not ideas. When I listen to people spew hatred for Obama it saddens me. Sure, I disagreed with the policies of the Bush administration on several occasions but it was the ideas I didn't like, not the person. I can say that knowing it is the truth. When I witness with my own eyes blatantly obvious thinly veiled racism in the media, government, and even amongst friends and people I know it makes me sad. This is not the change I was hoping for. If you didn't have any problem raising the debt ceiling a dozen times why all the sudden is it the worst possible thing to do for this country?
The worst thing for me is hearing people cry about how Obama is caving in to Republicans and leaning more and more to the right. You mean he is trying to make everyone happy? Isn't that the point? The Republicans, in my opinion, have made it very clear that their number one goal is making Obama a one term president, no matter what the cost. It is so clear that Republicans can't even pick a good candidate to run against Obama, but all they do is try to discredit him. Is that good for the American people? Why don't we make your number one goal to work together and fix the problems this nation is facing?
The tea party. The saddest and funniest thing I've seen in a while. "We don't want change! We like the country the way it is! ... Our president hasn't done SHIT! He hasn't done anything for anyone! sooooo.... We're good then right? You guys should be happy? One second you cry about how this country has fallen to pieces and the second someone agrees with you you cry, "this is the greatest country ever don't you ever say anything unkind about ahmurka!
You have given birth to "birthers" and countless other ideas to try and discredit the president. It is quite sad.
To end this, and believe me, I really could go on for days and welcome any discussion to follow, I will state that I have high hopes for this country. Though I do believe that Obama has brought out the worst in a lot of people I also believe he is bringing out the good in a lot of people. I commend the president for his efforts and will continue to support him.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Marvel vs DC Films
Upon taking requests for my next blog post subject someone decided they would like to hear about my take on comic book movies, specifically Marvel vs DC. I accept your invitation. I'll take some time to compare and contrast and give my opinion on which are more enjoyable and overall better films. I would like to state that I am not a comic book fan/collector but I am generally familiar with the story lines. I will not discuss the differences between comics and graphic novels at this point.
First, let us take a look at what I feel are some of my favorite comic book films:
300
30 Days of Night
Blade (Marvel)
Sin City
Batman (DC)
Batman Return (DC)
Batman Begins (DC)
The Crow
Dark Knight (DC)
Iron Man (Marvel)
Iron Man 2 (Marvel)
Kickass
Scott Pilgrim vs The World
Spiderman (Marvel)
Spiderman II (Marvel)
Superman: The Movie (DC)
Superman II (DC)
Thor (Marvel)
V for Vendetta
Watchman
Wanted
X-Men (Marvel)
X2: X-Men United (Marvel)
X-Men: First Class (Marvel)
I guess a Punisher and a Hulk movie or two might make this list too...
Of my favorite comic films 9 are Marvel and only 6 are DC titles.
Ok, I guess that could make for a compelling argument for Marvel.
But before we go crowning Marvel let us examine some of the WORST comic book films:
Batman Forever (DC)
Batman and Robin (DC)
Catwoman (DC)
Daredevil (Marvel)
Elektra (Marvel)
Fantastic 4 (Marvel)
Fantastic 4: Rise of the Silver Surfer (Marvel)
Ghost Rider (Marvel)
Judge Dredd
Green Lantern (DC)
Spiderman 3 (Marvel)
Superman 4 (DC)
Now there may be more bad ones out there but those have always stuck out at me as awful. Many could argue X-Men 3 could be on the list... or a Punisher or Hulk film... but that's a completely different argument.
So in this list Marvel also has the most mentions. 6 awful Marvel titles to 5 DC films.
When it comes down to it, you could easily argue that either Marvel or DC films have a better track record. Because when you really think about it, both have some really great films and both have some incredible pieces of shit that even I couldn't match on the drunkest of holidays.
Well what's my favorite? I'm going to have to go with DC. Are there more Marvel films I like, sure. But there is only one word I have to say. Batman. Batman is a DC character and while there have been two incredibly awful Batman films there have also been 4 simply amazing Batman films. Just like any other comic book series... somewhere down the line mistakes happen. Think X-Men 3, Spiderman 3, Wolverine, etc. Batman however made a pair of awesome films, made a pair of deuces, and then came back with another pair of amazing films.
It is kind of hard for me to say I enjoy DC films more simply because I just watched Green Lantern last week. I feel like they gave 300 Million dollars to several 14 year olds and told them to take this camera and Compaq Pressario and make a neat movie. I mean, The Green Lantern is DC's new "golden boy" and they just delivered this decades equivalent to Batman and Robin.
This may not be the definitive answer you may have hoped for, but I give DC the slight edge over Marvel in the film department. The Dark Knight is arguable the greatest comic book film of all time and that weighs heavily with me.
So there you have it. My take on Marvel vs DC. They both make some great films, shitty films, and OK films.
I'd love to hear your opinions. What comic book movie did I fail to mention?
What is your all time favorite comic book film? Is it Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles?
What is the next subject you would like me to not take a side on?
First, let us take a look at what I feel are some of my favorite comic book films:
300
30 Days of Night
Blade (Marvel)
Sin City
Batman (DC)
Batman Return (DC)
Batman Begins (DC)
The Crow
Dark Knight (DC)
Iron Man (Marvel)
Iron Man 2 (Marvel)
Kickass
Scott Pilgrim vs The World
Spiderman (Marvel)
Spiderman II (Marvel)
Superman: The Movie (DC)
Superman II (DC)
Thor (Marvel)
V for Vendetta
Watchman
Wanted
X-Men (Marvel)
X2: X-Men United (Marvel)
X-Men: First Class (Marvel)
I guess a Punisher and a Hulk movie or two might make this list too...
Of my favorite comic films 9 are Marvel and only 6 are DC titles.
Ok, I guess that could make for a compelling argument for Marvel.
But before we go crowning Marvel let us examine some of the WORST comic book films:
Batman Forever (DC)
Batman and Robin (DC)
Catwoman (DC)
Daredevil (Marvel)
Elektra (Marvel)
Fantastic 4 (Marvel)
Fantastic 4: Rise of the Silver Surfer (Marvel)
Ghost Rider (Marvel)
Judge Dredd
Green Lantern (DC)
Spiderman 3 (Marvel)
Superman 4 (DC)
Now there may be more bad ones out there but those have always stuck out at me as awful. Many could argue X-Men 3 could be on the list... or a Punisher or Hulk film... but that's a completely different argument.
So in this list Marvel also has the most mentions. 6 awful Marvel titles to 5 DC films.
When it comes down to it, you could easily argue that either Marvel or DC films have a better track record. Because when you really think about it, both have some really great films and both have some incredible pieces of shit that even I couldn't match on the drunkest of holidays.
Well what's my favorite? I'm going to have to go with DC. Are there more Marvel films I like, sure. But there is only one word I have to say. Batman. Batman is a DC character and while there have been two incredibly awful Batman films there have also been 4 simply amazing Batman films. Just like any other comic book series... somewhere down the line mistakes happen. Think X-Men 3, Spiderman 3, Wolverine, etc. Batman however made a pair of awesome films, made a pair of deuces, and then came back with another pair of amazing films.
It is kind of hard for me to say I enjoy DC films more simply because I just watched Green Lantern last week. I feel like they gave 300 Million dollars to several 14 year olds and told them to take this camera and Compaq Pressario and make a neat movie. I mean, The Green Lantern is DC's new "golden boy" and they just delivered this decades equivalent to Batman and Robin.
This may not be the definitive answer you may have hoped for, but I give DC the slight edge over Marvel in the film department. The Dark Knight is arguable the greatest comic book film of all time and that weighs heavily with me.
So there you have it. My take on Marvel vs DC. They both make some great films, shitty films, and OK films.
I'd love to hear your opinions. What comic book movie did I fail to mention?
What is your all time favorite comic book film? Is it Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles?
What is the next subject you would like me to not take a side on?
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Womp Womp
All my life I've searched for love
Now that I have found it
I wish I could lose it
Thor Kessler - 2011
Now that I have found it
I wish I could lose it
Thor Kessler - 2011
How I Know
Not because of the way you laugh
Whether on my or your behalf
It's not the reflection in your eye
Even when it is of this guy
Not your lips smiling so inviting
Or your voice that's so inciting
Nor your posture or your stance
It's because of the private glance
The smile I don't get to see
The one secretly looking at me
Just long enough for me to notice
Because you want for me to know this
Thor Kessler - 2010
Whether on my or your behalf
It's not the reflection in your eye
Even when it is of this guy
Not your lips smiling so inviting
Or your voice that's so inciting
Nor your posture or your stance
It's because of the private glance
The smile I don't get to see
The one secretly looking at me
Just long enough for me to notice
Because you want for me to know this
Thor Kessler - 2010
The Deep End (Man Overboard)
Weathered soul in a young shell
Old worries that continue to dwell
Take its toll on a giving person
Make it stop before it worsens
These troubles waters getting rough
The seas are pounding ever tough
The tides are strong but so are you
The ties are wrong, finished, through
Screaming but not making a sound
Drowning in emotions all around
Held down while trying to flee
Help me show you what I see
A sinking person somehow floating by
Thinking of what is past the horizon
Thor Kessler 2009
Old worries that continue to dwell
Take its toll on a giving person
Make it stop before it worsens
These troubles waters getting rough
The seas are pounding ever tough
The tides are strong but so are you
The ties are wrong, finished, through
Screaming but not making a sound
Drowning in emotions all around
Held down while trying to flee
Help me show you what I see
A sinking person somehow floating by
Thinking of what is past the horizon
Thor Kessler 2009
Pendulum
I lay here as you hover over me
Each swing closer to the end
I pray in fear for a lover to see
The string and blade that ascends
You sway but only for a moment
being pulled nearer with every pass
to slay what breaks your momentum
the fool that stays in your path
Thor Kessler - 2009
Each swing closer to the end
I pray in fear for a lover to see
The string and blade that ascends
You sway but only for a moment
being pulled nearer with every pass
to slay what breaks your momentum
the fool that stays in your path
Thor Kessler - 2009
Failblog
Trying, but not succeeding
Lying, but not breathing
Thinking, but not regretting
Drinking, but not forgetting
Thor Kessler - 2009
Lying, but not breathing
Thinking, but not regretting
Drinking, but not forgetting
Thor Kessler - 2009
Missed Opportunity
Of all the hearts cupid's arrows missed
Or the lips that I have never kissed
Yours are the ones that keep me up at night
Of all the sights that I may not see
Or all the eyes I've searched endlessly
Yours are the only ones I'll miss tonight
Of the thoughts that were inside my head
Or all the words I should have said
I missed the only three that sounded right.
Thor Kessler 2009
Or the lips that I have never kissed
Yours are the ones that keep me up at night
Of all the sights that I may not see
Or all the eyes I've searched endlessly
Yours are the only ones I'll miss tonight
Of the thoughts that were inside my head
Or all the words I should have said
I missed the only three that sounded right.
Thor Kessler 2009
The Flame
I can still see your face every day
Your scent still sends a shiver down my spine
It's been three months since you walked away
The long months since I last called you mine
I can still hear the echo of your voice
I try to forget the taste of your lips
Trying to forget I wasn't your choice
Still, you continue to linger in my life
Having said this, I want you to know
Having lived this, I want you to go
I can see through you now
I can see past you now
I want to burn these memories in my mind
Burn them to ashes and leave them all behind
Burn these memories in my mind
Spread these ashes where no one can find
I want you to burn just as you burnt me
Burn just like I have since that day.
And I won't let it phase me.
Just like you don't every day.
Thor Kessler - early 2000's
Your scent still sends a shiver down my spine
It's been three months since you walked away
The long months since I last called you mine
I can still hear the echo of your voice
I try to forget the taste of your lips
Trying to forget I wasn't your choice
Still, you continue to linger in my life
Having said this, I want you to know
Having lived this, I want you to go
I can see through you now
I can see past you now
I want to burn these memories in my mind
Burn them to ashes and leave them all behind
Burn these memories in my mind
Spread these ashes where no one can find
I want you to burn just as you burnt me
Burn just like I have since that day.
And I won't let it phase me.
Just like you don't every day.
Thor Kessler - early 2000's
Unseen
Like a painter without sight
I trust blindly in my canvas
Hoping to create something
With effort and best intentions
But I won't expect recognition
Since you can't see me either
-Thor Kessler - 2008
I trust blindly in my canvas
Hoping to create something
With effort and best intentions
But I won't expect recognition
Since you can't see me either
-Thor Kessler - 2008
From Lips to Paper
The words were exchanged as we lie in my bed
What you wanted to say, What I wanted to hear
Phrases that kept repeating inside of my head
Phases we leaped through, knowing what was near
Thoughts that led to every feeling I ever had
The link between empty truths we would swap
The ideas that followed and the pen on my pad
To the ink that flowed and bled its last drops
Thor Kessler - 2007
What you wanted to say, What I wanted to hear
Phrases that kept repeating inside of my head
Phases we leaped through, knowing what was near
Thoughts that led to every feeling I ever had
The link between empty truths we would swap
The ideas that followed and the pen on my pad
To the ink that flowed and bled its last drops
Thor Kessler - 2007
Totally Cliche Love!
I think of you every waking moment
The last I think about before I fall asleep
You're the only thing I dream of and
The first on my mind when I awake
Without you I count the hours
Our time apart is worthless
With you the seconds stand still
Our time together is priceless
I used to believe love is blind
Now I believe in love at first sight.
Thor Kessler 2008
The last I think about before I fall asleep
You're the only thing I dream of and
The first on my mind when I awake
Without you I count the hours
Our time apart is worthless
With you the seconds stand still
Our time together is priceless
I used to believe love is blind
Now I believe in love at first sight.
Thor Kessler 2008
Trapeze
I extend my hand to you with best intentions
You cross your fingers and wink your eye
Make amends and lay to rest this tension
Plans tossed aside often tend to go awry
If the world stopped spinning today
You and I'd still be twirling around in circles
Whirling around what emotions to display
To collide while hurled around in this circus
Thor Kessler - 2005
You cross your fingers and wink your eye
Make amends and lay to rest this tension
Plans tossed aside often tend to go awry
If the world stopped spinning today
You and I'd still be twirling around in circles
Whirling around what emotions to display
To collide while hurled around in this circus
Thor Kessler - 2005
Tree of Life
Spring has finally begun
You hold hands and run
Rest your heads on my roots
Feed each other my fruits
You'll play catch with cones
Until they've all been thrown
Now the days are longer
And your love has grown stronger
He carves your names in my skin
It blossoms more than one grin
You kiss for the first time
As your fingers intertwine
Red and brown drowns you tonight
You cry because you had your first fight
He'll try to say sorry tomorrow
You agree only to hide your sorrow
The heart he carved begins to fade
As it's getting colder in my shade
All my leaves have now dropped
Your visits have begun to stop
He won't look you in your eyes
Every day you regret saying goodbyes
Not knowing if you'll meet again
Your tree is the only thing to remain
Thor Kessler - 2001
This was REALLY bad! hahaha
You hold hands and run
Rest your heads on my roots
Feed each other my fruits
You'll play catch with cones
Until they've all been thrown
Now the days are longer
And your love has grown stronger
He carves your names in my skin
It blossoms more than one grin
You kiss for the first time
As your fingers intertwine
Red and brown drowns you tonight
You cry because you had your first fight
He'll try to say sorry tomorrow
You agree only to hide your sorrow
The heart he carved begins to fade
As it's getting colder in my shade
All my leaves have now dropped
Your visits have begun to stop
He won't look you in your eyes
Every day you regret saying goodbyes
Not knowing if you'll meet again
Your tree is the only thing to remain
Thor Kessler - 2001
This was REALLY bad! hahaha
Everlasting Fear
I found myself staring into the eyes of an angel tonight
The glare brought hope and made the future seem bright
The affection brought out something hidden for years
It was the reflection of a man who lost all his fears
My fears, however, were replaced with a single thought
If tears were to ever flow from the eyes you have got
If the brightness faded and your smile turned to frown
Light would be jaded and this whole world would drown
The glare brought hope and made the future seem bright
The affection brought out something hidden for years
It was the reflection of a man who lost all his fears
My fears, however, were replaced with a single thought
If tears were to ever flow from the eyes you have got
If the brightness faded and your smile turned to frown
Light would be jaded and this whole world would drown
4am
I'm haunted by the moon
The sun will rise soon
Tonight it frowns
A crown upside down
A king without sleep
Tonight I shall weep
I sit alone and awake
Waiting for daybreak
While the world lies down
In two's wearing gowns
Open eyes will let me see
All the things I can not be
All light has been swallowed
Dark and cold in this shadow
No brightness in my eyes
A victim of the night sky
Bound and tied by the stars
Will I escape without scars
Thor Kessler - 2002
The sun will rise soon
Tonight it frowns
A crown upside down
A king without sleep
Tonight I shall weep
I sit alone and awake
Waiting for daybreak
While the world lies down
In two's wearing gowns
Open eyes will let me see
All the things I can not be
All light has been swallowed
Dark and cold in this shadow
No brightness in my eyes
A victim of the night sky
Bound and tied by the stars
Will I escape without scars
Thor Kessler - 2002
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