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Jesters_folly (230 KP) rated TRON (1982) in Movies
Nov 17, 2020
Before Player One, before Ralph and Neo and even before the Lawnmower Man there was Tron. Tron covers a lot of ground, some of which was quite advanced for a film from 1983, we have hackers, corporate espionage, teleportation experiments, A.I. and what we would now call Cyberspace.
Basically Ed Dillinger is the boss of an evil corporation, Encom, (yes IT corporations were evil as far back as the 1980s) who got to where he was by stealing the programs of five arcade games from Flynn. Ed is being blackmailed by the 'Master Control Program' or 'MCP' for short, a rouge A.I. that believes it can rule the world better than humans.
Alan works at Encom and is trying to create a Data monitoring program called Tron. Alan is also dating Flynn's ex, Lora who also works at Encom, in a department that is developing a way of digitising mater and transporting it down a laser beam to a new destination. The three team up to help Flynn find the proof of the theft but the MCP digitises Flynn who finds himself used as a gladiator in the program. When Flynn meets the Tron program they team up to bring the MCP down.
First off the whole thing could have been stopped if Encom had proper health and safety, the computer that Flynn was using was the same one that operated the digitising laser and the laser was set up right behind the screen with barriers or other safety measures.
Ok in all seriousness the concepts in Tron were quite advanced, baring in mind that this was out in 1983, a time when home P.C.s were just beginning to become popular and the internet wasn't really around (there were networked computers but really only in offices) Tron brought us a concept of Cyberspace (although it wasn't called that in the film), a world where the computer programs live and the games are real. Not only that but everything is linked together, there weren't any networked games back then any you had to go to an arcade to play most of the games that existed.
By todays standards the Cyberspace world wouldn't feel right. It is a lineal landscape with fractural crystals coloured in greys, red and blues, a far cry from Wreck-it Ralph's advert filled, brightly coloured internet. Again this is due to when it was made, no internet, no advertising and, of course the computers of the time had slightly less memory than the ones today, with the ZX81 being released that year with a massive 16 or 48 Kb of memory, yes kiddies that's Kilo-bites, not even one meg so the games that were available were quite basic (compared to what we have today) an, of course, outside of an arcade those games would have been stored on floppy disk or cassette tape.
The action in Tron is muted, mainly kept to bike crashes and people throwing Frisbees at each other but this is because Tron is; 1) a kids film and 2) a Disney film. The muted action doesn't take away from the film though, it's still an enjoyable adventure film whose influence can be seen even now with films like Wreck-it Ralph.
For a film that is mostly early 80's CGI (or even just early CGI) Tron hasn't aged too badly and the story could easily have been written now, especially with the recent advent of LitRGP books and 'Isekai' anime such as 'Sword Art Online'.
Basically Ed Dillinger is the boss of an evil corporation, Encom, (yes IT corporations were evil as far back as the 1980s) who got to where he was by stealing the programs of five arcade games from Flynn. Ed is being blackmailed by the 'Master Control Program' or 'MCP' for short, a rouge A.I. that believes it can rule the world better than humans.
Alan works at Encom and is trying to create a Data monitoring program called Tron. Alan is also dating Flynn's ex, Lora who also works at Encom, in a department that is developing a way of digitising mater and transporting it down a laser beam to a new destination. The three team up to help Flynn find the proof of the theft but the MCP digitises Flynn who finds himself used as a gladiator in the program. When Flynn meets the Tron program they team up to bring the MCP down.
First off the whole thing could have been stopped if Encom had proper health and safety, the computer that Flynn was using was the same one that operated the digitising laser and the laser was set up right behind the screen with barriers or other safety measures.
Ok in all seriousness the concepts in Tron were quite advanced, baring in mind that this was out in 1983, a time when home P.C.s were just beginning to become popular and the internet wasn't really around (there were networked computers but really only in offices) Tron brought us a concept of Cyberspace (although it wasn't called that in the film), a world where the computer programs live and the games are real. Not only that but everything is linked together, there weren't any networked games back then any you had to go to an arcade to play most of the games that existed.
By todays standards the Cyberspace world wouldn't feel right. It is a lineal landscape with fractural crystals coloured in greys, red and blues, a far cry from Wreck-it Ralph's advert filled, brightly coloured internet. Again this is due to when it was made, no internet, no advertising and, of course the computers of the time had slightly less memory than the ones today, with the ZX81 being released that year with a massive 16 or 48 Kb of memory, yes kiddies that's Kilo-bites, not even one meg so the games that were available were quite basic (compared to what we have today) an, of course, outside of an arcade those games would have been stored on floppy disk or cassette tape.
The action in Tron is muted, mainly kept to bike crashes and people throwing Frisbees at each other but this is because Tron is; 1) a kids film and 2) a Disney film. The muted action doesn't take away from the film though, it's still an enjoyable adventure film whose influence can be seen even now with films like Wreck-it Ralph.
For a film that is mostly early 80's CGI (or even just early CGI) Tron hasn't aged too badly and the story could easily have been written now, especially with the recent advent of LitRGP books and 'Isekai' anime such as 'Sword Art Online'.
ashezbookz (32 KP) rated The Program (The Program, #1) in Books
Jul 5, 2018
While this book had some certain tropes in it (hello love triangle) - and it definitely would have some trigger warnings, a few times I was shocked at what I read, not necessarily in a bad way - but some people may actually have issues with this book if they're super sensitive.
the whole suicide epidemic was quite an interesting story to read (granted that right there should trigger people - hey don't read this book) - the whole lobotomy after getting into the program was intense too - though wickedly fun to read about.
i'm very very curious to see where this series goes.....luckily I checked them all out from the library!
the whole suicide epidemic was quite an interesting story to read (granted that right there should trigger people - hey don't read this book) - the whole lobotomy after getting into the program was intense too - though wickedly fun to read about.
i'm very very curious to see where this series goes.....luckily I checked them all out from the library!
Jackjack (877 KP) rated Never Have I Ever - Season 1 in TV
May 1, 2020
Coming of age teen comedy
Brilliant program with a but of something for everyone! Easily relatable.
From the mind of Mindy Kaling, the show takes us into the crazy yet completely relatable world of Asian-American teenager Devi Vishwakumar.
She’s had some major downs in the past year and is determined to turn it all around as she focuses on becoming cool, getting a boyfriend and just living her best life.
That’s all easier said than done, of course. And watching her attempts in the hilarious 10- episode series is an absolute hoot.
But if you need a bit more convincing then we’re more than happy to explain all the reasons why this is the best Netflix show you’re not watching right now
From the mind of Mindy Kaling, the show takes us into the crazy yet completely relatable world of Asian-American teenager Devi Vishwakumar.
She’s had some major downs in the past year and is determined to turn it all around as she focuses on becoming cool, getting a boyfriend and just living her best life.
That’s all easier said than done, of course. And watching her attempts in the hilarious 10- episode series is an absolute hoot.
But if you need a bit more convincing then we’re more than happy to explain all the reasons why this is the best Netflix show you’re not watching right now
Erika (17788 KP) rated Shakespeare's Sonnets, Retold in Books
Nov 21, 2018
I received a copy of this book courtesy of the Penguin First to Read program in exchange for an honest review.
I remember in high school that Shakespeare was the bane of my existence. For some reason, high schools in the US only choose to have you read Romeo and Juliet (woof). I had read a few sonnets then, just for fun, and was completely befuddled.
Luckily, this book has come along. The format is great, the original sonnet is on one page, and the reinterpretation is on the other. I thought the first section of procreation sonnets was... bizarre and I hope I never read them again. I enjoyed the 'Dark Lady' sonnets at the end. This book is definitely a must-read if you've ever been interested in the sonnets, but can't wade through the original text with ease.
I remember in high school that Shakespeare was the bane of my existence. For some reason, high schools in the US only choose to have you read Romeo and Juliet (woof). I had read a few sonnets then, just for fun, and was completely befuddled.
Luckily, this book has come along. The format is great, the original sonnet is on one page, and the reinterpretation is on the other. I thought the first section of procreation sonnets was... bizarre and I hope I never read them again. I enjoyed the 'Dark Lady' sonnets at the end. This book is definitely a must-read if you've ever been interested in the sonnets, but can't wade through the original text with ease.
Auburn (57 KP) rated Endurance: A Year in Space, A Lifetime of Discovery in Books
Apr 10, 2019
This is the story of one astronauts year long stay on the space station. Scott Kelly does an amazing recount, complete with stunning photographs, of his stay. That means the good and the bad. Especially transitioning back to living on Earth.
I normally don't read autobiography but I made an exception for this one. The hard work and dedication he has to the space program is truly inspiring. Add to that his family dedication and you have a role model.
This book would be perfect for anyone who loves space, strong role models, or just anyone who wants to know what it takes to be an astronaut. Kids will enjoy the pictures while parents are able to explain some of the parts.
Overall this is one of the best memoirs I have read.
I normally don't read autobiography but I made an exception for this one. The hard work and dedication he has to the space program is truly inspiring. Add to that his family dedication and you have a role model.
This book would be perfect for anyone who loves space, strong role models, or just anyone who wants to know what it takes to be an astronaut. Kids will enjoy the pictures while parents are able to explain some of the parts.
Overall this is one of the best memoirs I have read.
Caffeinated Fae (464 KP) rated The Dispatcher in Books
Apr 10, 2019
Fantastic Narration
I got this book as part of the Audibles Free Monthly Originals program. I was extremely excited when I saw this novella on the list. I've always appreciated John Scalzi's writing so I was excited to try this book out. The narrator (Zachary Quinto) was phenomenal. I love listening to audiobooks because, in rare moments, the narrator brings the story to life. This is one of those moments. Zachary Quinto breathed life into this book, his voices and acting were fantastic!
The plot of this novella kept me on the edge of my seat. I enjoyed the blend of science fiction and realism. This book though science fiction felt real. I could see this take place in the future. It almost had an Altered Carbon feel to it in a way.
The plot of this novella kept me on the edge of my seat. I enjoyed the blend of science fiction and realism. This book though science fiction felt real. I could see this take place in the future. It almost had an Altered Carbon feel to it in a way.
Hilary dreams of become a pirate. But she' s a girl and the daughter of an admirable. Still, at the first chance, she runs away and joins up. Tasked with finding a treasure using a map with no markings, she might be in over her head. Can she do it?
This was a complete delight. The characters are warm and charming, the plot moves forward quickly, and the book is filled with great humor. I can't wait for the next one to come out (fall of 2014, but I'm not counting at all). Definitely recommended for anyone in the target middle grade audience or older.
NOTE: I got this book via the Amazon Vine program.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2013/10/book-review-magic-marks-spot-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
This was a complete delight. The characters are warm and charming, the plot moves forward quickly, and the book is filled with great humor. I can't wait for the next one to come out (fall of 2014, but I'm not counting at all). Definitely recommended for anyone in the target middle grade audience or older.
NOTE: I got this book via the Amazon Vine program.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2013/10/book-review-magic-marks-spot-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Ghosts and the paranormal have always fascinated me. I keep hoping to discover that such things are real even though I can't help but doubt that they are. It is fascinating then that a major university like Duke at one time had a department focused solely on investigating the validity of these beliefs. The program and its founders have an interesting history, and it makes for a really fascinating read. I won't go into any details about what they do or don't discover, but it will certainly leave one wondering why there hasn't been more serious research into the fields these scientists were looking at since the program's end. Anyone who is even remotely curious about the supernatural should check this book out.
This book was given to me by a friend, a substitue teacher at the school I teach at. He is working on his teaching degree & came across this book in the course of his studies. He was so impressed with it that he purchased several copies & gave them to teachers at the school.
I enjoyed this book a great deal. It was easy to read for being a book on brain science. It was written in a very non-high brow way. The book explained the theory of brain plasticity & how the "changeability" of the brain impacts our lives. There were sections on relationships, addiction, learning, strokes, & the part I found the most interesting the development of the Fast ForWord program which we use at the school.
If you are curious about the brain & how it is able to change & heal or harm itself this is a must read!
I enjoyed this book a great deal. It was easy to read for being a book on brain science. It was written in a very non-high brow way. The book explained the theory of brain plasticity & how the "changeability" of the brain impacts our lives. There were sections on relationships, addiction, learning, strokes, & the part I found the most interesting the development of the Fast ForWord program which we use at the school.
If you are curious about the brain & how it is able to change & heal or harm itself this is a must read!
Billie Wichkan (118 KP) rated Vengeance 101 (Vengeance Demons Series Introduction) in Books
May 22, 2019
Megan Aequitas is the only vengeance demon and trickster hybrid ever born. Unbeknownst to her family, she has always yearned to become a licensed member of the vengeance trade. There is something about punishing wrongdoers that just speaks to her at a primal level
But being born into the vengeance race was one thingwell, being half born into it, anywayand being professionally qualified as a vengeance demon is quite another.
Getting admitted into the elite vengeance training program is only the first step. Afterwards, Megan has to deal with professors and students who doubt her right to be there, trickster siblings who mortify her with their pranks and, worst of all, her terrifying and powerful grandmother, who promises expulsion from the program if Megan steps as much as a single toe out of line. But Megan is determined to achieve her dreams, no matter what the costand it soon becomes clear that what everyone views to be her greatest weakness may actually present an interesting advantage.
This prequel is a good introduction to the Vengeance Demons series.
Vengeance 101 gives just a taste of the vengeance demons as Megan's journey into the academy begins.
We get a glimpse of how she got started at the university and began her dream of becoming a licensed Vengeance Demon.
This was a fun and entertaining read.
I love Louisa's style of writing. she's an amazing author.
Highly recommend reading.
I received this copy free but this is my honest voluntary review.
But being born into the vengeance race was one thingwell, being half born into it, anywayand being professionally qualified as a vengeance demon is quite another.
Getting admitted into the elite vengeance training program is only the first step. Afterwards, Megan has to deal with professors and students who doubt her right to be there, trickster siblings who mortify her with their pranks and, worst of all, her terrifying and powerful grandmother, who promises expulsion from the program if Megan steps as much as a single toe out of line. But Megan is determined to achieve her dreams, no matter what the costand it soon becomes clear that what everyone views to be her greatest weakness may actually present an interesting advantage.
This prequel is a good introduction to the Vengeance Demons series.
Vengeance 101 gives just a taste of the vengeance demons as Megan's journey into the academy begins.
We get a glimpse of how she got started at the university and began her dream of becoming a licensed Vengeance Demon.
This was a fun and entertaining read.
I love Louisa's style of writing. she's an amazing author.
Highly recommend reading.
I received this copy free but this is my honest voluntary review.