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The Matrix (1999)
The Matrix (1999)
1999 | Action, Sci-Fi
Put simply, The Matrix is almost the perfect action/science-fiction/mind fuck movie. It has a deliciously dystopian concept that leans into the state of the real world today (well, 1999 to be exact but it still works now). It has an aesthetic style that still looks incredible, and was unarguably ahead of its time. This includes some truly inspired set pieces. It has a fantastic cast of actors playing well realised characters, from the tranquil nature of the good guys, to the uncomfortably sinister Terminator-esque agents. It has an instantly recognisable music score. Everything about it just flows, and two+ hours fly by in no time.
Sure, The Matrix was the catalyst for countless copycats and IRL edgelords (I remember seeing this back in 2000 as a humble 12 year old, thinking it was the coolest fucking thing ever, before having my perceptions unceremoniously shattered by the influx of middle aged men walking around my tiny countryside hometown in leather dusters) but it did it first, and looked good doing it. I can even get past the blaring breakbeat music, because it's The Matrix dammit.
All these years later, a fair chunk of the dialogue is cheesy as all hell, and occasionally a little cringey, but other than that, it still stands the test of time.

Also, Rage Against the Machine.
  
What it Feels Like For a Girl
What it Feels Like For a Girl
Paris Lees | 2021 | Biography, LGBTQ+
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
I’m so glad I’ve read this book. This is the story of Byron: from the age of 13 he knew that he wanted to get away from his hometown of Hucknall in Nottinghamshire, where he was called a “poof” at school and beaten up.

Byron becomes a rent boy, meets new friends at a bar who, he discovers, want the same things out of life as him: he wants to be a woman, and he feels that is what he was supposed to have been.

“Hedonistic” is the word that describes Byron’s life at this time. Until, that is, it all comes tumbling down. One very stupid act lands Byron in jail. But it’s what he does with this time in jail that really counts. And he decides to turn his life around.

I loved this. I enjoyed reading it in the Hucknall vernacular (it reminded me of my dad’s accent in Lincolnshire)and the chapter headings were spot on (all titles from songs at that time). And I felt so much for the young Byron - sad that his family didn’t seem to understand or care for him (other than his grandmother); sad that he couldn’t live as he wanted to and had no guidance to keep him safe. In fact he was lucky that he didn’t end up murdered or overdosed. It’s such an emotional book.
Highly recommended.