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Lady Lillith's Revenge

~ “In revenge and in love, woman is more barbarous than man” – Friedrich Nietzsche

Lady Lillith's Revenge

Tag Archives: film

Music Censorship: Pointless?

22 Tuesday Jul 2014

Posted by LadyLil in Music, Pop Culture, Uncategorized

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censorship, double standards, film, music, pointless activism

I’m all for tools that will help parents determine what’s best for their kids. I’m not a parent, but I know it’s very difficult to raise kids of any age, and sometimes help is needed to make the right choices. But for me, Parental Advisory labels are dumb (what a shocking observation, I’m sure).

Here’s the thing; I was in the check out line and got carded for two films sets; a double featurette containing Serpico and Dog Day Afternoon, and another containing Goodfellas and Heat. All four are action thrillers starring Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, so it wouldn’t be a long shot in guessing that they are steeped with profanity and violence. Okay, I can understand why parents might object to little Timmy or Sally buying films with content as such, IF Timmy or Sally were ten. But hey, if you’re under Eighteen you have to abide by the rules of your parents (or guardians), so I get why they card (you need parents approval). But interestingly they don’t card for music. Why? For two reasons, Parental Advisory stickers (which I think some places still card you for ANYWAY) OR some stores choose to carry only the edited (radio friendly) version of albums. I brought this up to the cashier and she got all huffy, “well if you want to listen to music filled with a bunch of profanity, you can go elsewhere.” That wasn’t the point. The point was the differences in censorship. There are no “Television friendly” versions of films on the shelf, so why stock censored music?

And what is considered “censored?” All “censored” music is just taking the curse words out. Content that is extremely violent, mysoginistic, or homophobic in nature is perfectly okay, just don’t use the dreaded “F-word”. I’m sorry, that’s just so dumb. I’m not a big fan of censoring artists to begin with, but I understand that sometimes certain types of censorship is needed when children are present. Plus some people just don’t want to see a ton of graphic nudity on television or hear F-bombs every other word. And that’s fine, I’m glad there are alternatives when it comes to public media forms. But the way censorship is done, (expecially in music) is so pointless. First off, with artists like Eminem or Lil Wayne, you should know what you are getting into. Eminem in particular has built a brand around having a very violent, psychotic persona, and likewise Wayne has marketed himself around weed. In any event, a BIG FAT PARENTAL ADVISORY sticker should be a clue to the content. But what about the “radio friendly” hits like “Blurred Lines, ” that is arguably about the “joys” of date-rape? Is that censored?

See, here is the problem, politicians and parents pick on cursing because it’s an easy problem to fix for censorship purposes. You can point it out quickly and erase it, leaving a false sense of accomplishment behind. Unfortunately you can still be left with a lot of inappropriate messages, that are repeated over and over and still declared as “cool” by pop culture (for instance, how many times have you heard the song “Blurred Lines” on the radio?). So the problem never really went away. Instead you have done nothing but waste time and money.

And I brought up Eminem earlier, because he and Marilyn Manson are everyone’s favorite scapegoat (Em mainly for his “Slim Shady” alter-ego, Manson for his “blasphemous” imagery). For the record, I do respect both individuals as an artist, but Em in particular makes a really good example here. He has had several huge hits on the radio, and some are quite controversial, yet they are STILL PLAYED. The only difference? The “bad words” are edited out. I’m also going to pick a little bit on rap/hip hop music in general, because they seem to be the most guilty (and yes, I am aware that there are some rap songs with very positive messages) of full on mysogyny and violence in general. How many such songs do you hear regularly on the radio (mainstream, not Sirius)? These songs become hits, kids sing them all the time. And do you really think they don’t know what words are edited out?

What about pop “friendly” personalities like Kesha singing about getting wasted all the time with slurred lyrics? Or good wholesome Britney singing about threesomes? What about Nicki Minaj? How about KidzBop featuring a song by Uncle Kracker about infidelity? What a good, wholesome message to send to the kiddies.  Heck, how many fricken pop songs are about getting wasted in the clubs and having lots and lots of sex (sometimes *gasp* CASUAL sex)? Bet they don’t praise that in Church/Synagogue/Scouts/Any other “kid friendly” organization you can think of!

Which is more harmful? Saying all women are sluts and should be used, abused, and thrown away like trash? Or the saying the B-word? Talking about killing your rival, burning his house down, and raping his wife? Or using crass slang for a woman’s vagina? Which do you think would affect kids the most? The message, or a word? And that’s my point. Censoring a word or two does nothing. We don’t do that with our films, instead we leave their content intact and leave it up to the parents to make a personal choice. And guess what, on the back of all films it gives a brief description of what content is within (Rape, violence, strong sexuality, etc). So why censor the music? Why not stick a sticker on it that says what’s contained and then card the purchaser? Why go through all the trouble of hacking up a song? It serves no purpose! It doesn’t solve any problem.

I would think the problem would exist more in the message of a song, it’s overall lyrical content rather than just a few words. Sure, there are plenty of nasty slurs that can be considered harmful, but it is the INTENT behind them that makes them so vile. I just think if you are going to censor, then go all the way. Get rid of ALL that could be harmful to a growing child or teen’s well being and sense of self. Otherwise stop pretending it’s for the kids. 

But hey, maybe I’m wrong.

(Also on a petty note, I’ve also noticed that some stores, like FYE or Target, won’t label their music as “edited” or “censored,” so adults wind up buying a hacked version of the album anyway. Really?)

 

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Random Thoughts and Tidbits, Part 1: Films

12 Saturday Jul 2014

Posted by LadyLil in Filler Posts, Film, Rants

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Tags

2014 previews, 4 AM rant, action, film, Horror, Lucy, Michael Bay, Planet of the Apes, sequel, Star Wars, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Purge: Anarchy, upcoming films

(aka it’s “4 AM and I can’t sleep again” post)

Films, films, films. A lot of upcoming films that drew my interest (and some my ire). Not to mention the much anticipated installment to a beloved series (pissed in the toilet, some would argue, by it’s own creator). There’s also some gaming releases I am immensely looking forward to, so let’s dive right in….

The Purge: Anarchy – love, love, love the concept behind the series but let’s be honest, the execution needs some serious work. The last one was a disappointment for many, but had some firm ideas behind it. Apparently this will be carried on in the sequel. It could be a fairly decent Redbox rental, but I suspect that like it’s predecessor it will have too many ideas and too muddle a story line to be the masterpiece it could be. Shame, because there is a lot of food for thought behind the initial ideas. A great director and script writer are an absolute must if this is to be a longstanding series with any staying power. As of now I expect the third installment (trust, there will be a third film) will be a straight to dvd.

Rise of the Planet of the Apes, Part Two, or whatever the hell we are calling this prequel – seriously? Are we really doing this? How many freaking prequels do we need to a story that shouldn’t have to be told? Is George Lucas somehow behind this? Where to begin? How about how over-the-top ridiculous nature of this films plot? Freaking talking ape militias weilding machine guns and leaping about among explosions? It just looks so stupid and with such awful CGI. How the heck did they con Gary Oldman into being in this? What a waste of talent. Do I dare ask how much money was put into this? And you know what I can’t figure out? You know that this is going to be a box office smash (you just KNOW this), but why? A bad movie can make money, okay, but a BLOCK BUSTER SMASH? Total killer to the original sci-fi masterpiece.

Lucy – this could actually be a decent film. It’s has a great lead and an interesting premise, though I wonder if the ending will pay off. In any event, it looks like a masterpiece compared to the other two. I do expect there to be a lot of pseudo-science shoved in there though, but at least this is an action film that tries to be entertaining, instead of a blah cash cow.

 

Zenith films just updated. Future Silent Hill projects contemplated. Check them out!

 

Numerous blogs keep harping on the upcoming Disney owned Star Wars films. As a Star Wars (movie) fan, I feel obligated to go see each film installment they come out. And yes, I saw all the prequels in theaters, feeling my soul die a little more each time. Never-the-less, my love for the original trilogy can not be denied, and like the mother of a serial killer I feel obligated to show some support (by at least being there for the parole hearing). However, I am so disappointed so many people are jumping on the hate band wagon already. At least wait until the film comes out. I’m going to try to remain optimistic, there is a good director at the helm, and no Lucas interference. Sure it’s Disney, which means it will be highly commercialized, but Disney HAS given us good films before. Classics even. Sure, many of them were cartoons, or cartoonish. Or musical. And filled with lots of cutsy imagery. And ham-fisted morality. And yes, I’m worried that it might wind up too….Muppet friendly….but maybe not.

I’m not convincing anyone am I? Well, I bet it will at least be better than Michael Bay’s latest attempt to crush our childhood with the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle film….which I will probably wind up seeing.

Damn you Nostalgia!!!

Silent Hill Requiem Update

24 Tuesday Jun 2014

Posted by LadyLil in Film, Video Games

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Tags

fan project, film, Horror, independent film, Requiem, Silent Hill, tribute, Zenith Films

Many may remember a post I made on a promising Silent Hill fan film project by Zenith Films, (for those that have yet to check it out, original post found here), well I was delighted to find out that production appears to be going well. I am also happy to announce that Zenith really seems to know how to get a lot of bang for their buck, as the previews look fantastic! If you are like me, and you like what you see, please, please, please show your support for such an ambitious endeavor. Please check out the Zenith Film site, here, and bookmark his twitter if you have one! Also you can donate or just send a supportive shout out!

Congrats to Zenith Films founder Gareth Morgan, and the lovely Olwen Davies (as a striking Heather Mason)! Keep up the good work guys, I’m sure it will pay off!

Buffy v Buffy (in a nutshell)

17 Sunday Nov 2013

Posted by LadyLil in Uncategorized

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Buffy the Vampire Slayer, film, hate away fanboys, Joss Wheddon, Kristy Swanson, Sarah Michelle Gellar, series, teen drama

So I am putting my remaining Hellraiser posts on the back burner for a little while for a few reasons. One, I’d like to read some of the comics before the next posting so I can give a decent comparison between the styles, and two, I have had a few requests for posts that I would like to fulfill (including one from my sister, Lady May).

But let me start with the easiest one to answer, the one that will put me squarely in the “outs” with the fanboys and perhaps the grand phoombas of Nerd-dom. But this won’t be a lengthy post, and I really could easily make it so, but I’m tired and have another post to finish. So let’s make this one fast and dirty.

As you may recall, I once stated that I didn’t particularly care for Wheddon’s “masterpiece,” Buffy the Vampire Slayer Series. In fact, I don’t like it. Still don’t, despite the numerous attempts taken to get into it (I blame peer pressure). But the worst of it all is that I actually enjoy the movie version. I know, quelle horreur! “Why?” I’ve been asked a multitude of times. How can I prefer a cheesy Hollywood comedy over the “popular” Wheddon television adaption that made Sarah Michelle Gellar into a household name?

Well, there are many reasons, but I think the name itself is a good place to start. Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Now say that out loud to yourself. Imagine, if you will, that you have never seen the show or the movie or know anything about the franchise but just the name. What images does the title conjure up in your mind? Is it that of a leggy, spunky, blonde Valley girl cheerleader with a desire to shop and an even bigger desire to kick some undead ass? Or is it a cynical, whiny, doe-eyed brunette outcast who wallows in her own teen angst, hangs out with fellow emo outcasts, a bunch of geeks so awkward they make Sheldon Cooper appear bubbly, and a morose, bland mentor who is English for no reason other than it makes him appear wise. Do you picture a fun, light, self-aware comedy that’s just a little campy? Or a hipster-esque teen drama on a nothing-budget-and-it-shows, that tries to pretend it’s a modern day, gothic fantasy tale, forgetting that if it weren’t for supernatural elements it would fit right there with Dawson’s Creek, Pretty Little Liars, Gossip Girl, and Popular (no, strike that, Popular was actually half decent, Freaks and Geeks was better though). Yeah, the title isn’t fitting for Wheddon’s vision. It sells itself perfectly for the film though.

Also in the film you have Kristy Swanson in the title role, and boy, does she sell it! She was a blast! Spoiled, silly, cheeky, sexy, and bad ass. I loved her! I bought her as the vamp slaying, high kicking, sass-bringing character. No silly “forbidden” romance, no angst, just a few quippy lines and a stake and she was all ready to go! She was fun, energetic, smiley, she kept the film light and entertaining. The supporting cast in the film was fun as well. I mean, where else are you going to see David Arquette and Paul Reubans as vampires? And they had so much fun hamming it up! Paul’s death scenes were especially delightful!

With the television series you have a cast that is….blah. Bland, boring, clichéd. Just blah. And for a series that is supposed to be so edgy, I expect much more. And it’s not like I don’t like the actors themselves, but their characters are just stereotypes you could put into ANY teen television drama. I mean, a socially awkward but sweet geeky girl? Another nerdy, bland guy who somehow manages to have less personality to the point that I barely remember him? Oh, how about the stock popular mean girl who serves absolutely no purpose other than it’s a high school drama so we MUST have an evil beautiful rich girl to hate. While the film laughed at itself, the series tries too hard to appear both cool and deep with lame one liners shoved at predictable place markers to give the characters “spunk” (but really only serve to make me cringe).The only saving grace as far as I was concerned was the character Spike, who made for great eye-candy and actually had a few funny lines, and Seth Green (just because he is Seth Green, his character offered nothing). Other than that, *snore*.

And the series just went on and on and on…getting more and more contrived as they tried to boost ratings, inevitably turning one of the characters into a lesbian (of course). Ugh. I just can’t with this.

See, all the silly stuff, stock characterizations, ridiculous plots, etc, worked in the film because it was just a fun fluff piece. I laughed a lot, I remembered the characters, I was entertained. It wasn’t serious. It didn’t try to fit in to pop culture. It was IN on the joke. It didn’t over stay it’s welcome. It had real humor, not some soulless, pandering mess masquerading as a pseudo gothic, indie quasi-satire (with terrible prosthetic makeup, I might add).

Good god. The Wheddon fans are screaming at me now. I can hear them through my monitor. “It’s deeper than that.” “So-and-so’s character develops blah blah blah” “You just don’t GET it!!” No, I think I do get it.

Let me just barrel straight to the main reason why I feel this failed for me. In my opinion Buffy the series is meant to appeal to the angsty teeny-bopper, the self-perceived “outcasts” who want desperately to be with the “in” crowd but they aren’t, so they want some fantasy to live through where the outcasts of the show are actually special snowflakes who are part of a “deeper” world, but highschool is just sooooo important that naturally the “chosen one” (the primary outcast who represents their perceived self) is a whiney, (and of course) pretty “misunderstood” teenager and her gaggle of fellow nobodies who must constantly save humanity night after night one nauseating quip at a time. But because they are just soooo misunderstood by the outside world (aka the “popular” kids), they are considered freaks.

In this respect, it’s not much separated from Twilight. Yeah, you read that right. It’s a series that’s meant to be marketed. Is it better written and performed than Twilight? God, yes. Absolutely. But it’s still pretty shallow. The film was too, but never tried to pretend otherwise. In fact, it RELISHED the fact. It embraced the cheese. Three layers of cheesy goodness. And I gobbled it all up! Num-num-num.

So suck it fan boys. There’s another bit you can hate me for. I didn’t like the series. Maybe Wheddon has other things I would enjoy, but with that no. And maybe one day, I can give a more detailed, lengthy rant for you to obsess over, a better point-by-point blow on the film versus the series. But for now, this will do to answer the question.

Hellraiser: The Franchise

07 Monday Oct 2013

Posted by LadyLil in Film

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

Cenobite, Clive Barker, comics, film, franchise, Hellraiser, Horror, Pinhead

Since my movie reviews are a bit….lacking, I’ve decided to have another go at it. Since it’s October I’ve decided to review a horror film franchise. One I find interesting (and in a few ways quite unique) is the Hellraiser series, which I rather enjoy despite its many flaws. So in the next few posts we are going to dive into this series and explore the good and the bad of it, as well as look at aspects of the franchise outside the cinematic world. I hope to do this franchise justice, because it’s one of the few I do respect, despite what it’s become.

I have such sights to show you….

This series had so much great potential that was so utterly ruined by the Hollywood system. And for what? So they are now a straight to dvd, low-budget set, while crap like Jason vs Freddy are made into blockbuster smashes.

I guess we should look first into the general premise and understand certain terms.

To start, the original concept, as conceived by series creator Clive Barker, was actually quite good. A mysterious puzzle box acts as a door way to a dimension of the ultimate physical experience, of sensations so incredible that they are literally almost unbearable to the senses. A place where the senses explode in ecstasy. Many seek to find this gateway but when they do, it comes with a hefty price. In the novella the solver of the box would be stimulated to the extremes of both mind and body (experiencing pain through pleasure) by the beings of the otherworld (“Hell”). In return though they would become the experimental slave of these creatures, subjugated to otherworldly tortures to satisfy their curiosities. In the first film, Hellraiser, the seeker/solver of the box (known as the “Lament Configuration“, or “Lemarchand’s Box“) were promised to have all their greatest desires fulfilled, only to find that they had been deceived and are now the playthings of the Cenobites, creatures who defined themselves as “explorers of the furthest reaches of the human experience. Demons to some, angels to others.” The victim would then be torn apart, dragged to the world of the Cenobites to be remade in order to be subjected to the Cenobite’s cruel whims again and again. From this the Cenobites would observe their prisoners suffering, though to what purpose it was unknown. A few were chosen by Leviathan, the god of that world, to be realistically transformed and tortured into Cenobites.

In the (first) film the other world is known as “Hell” (not to be confused with the Christian/Judeo form of Hell), the second film gave it the moniker of the Labyrinth (not to be confused with a certain fun time goblin labyrinth). Later films would reject this mystique of an unknown, otherworldly dimension of sadomasochism in favor of converting it into a twisted take of the Christian/Judeo Hell. Regardless though of which interpretation used, Hell was always depicted as a place of immense physical/mental suffering. But we will look more into this later when I review the films.

The theme of desire (lust for either the physical, knowledge, or power) is a reoccurring one in the series. In fact, it is the basis for all that happens in the films (and comics). Though not an unique concept it is an extremely powerful one and works well in the original series Barker created, but was able to mesh to what Hollywood wanted too. Also prevalent are the themes of moral dilemma, morality, and inner conflict/torture.

The creature and set designs in the film and comic series are often inventive and usually evocative of the S&M club culture. As with the Silent Hill series, the possibilities are near endless, if utilized well with the core theme of the series (because let’s face it, like the Leprechaun films, the rules essentially go out the window with each installment). As with many other horror series, it is often the creature designs that distinguish the franchise. And of course, we have the primary cenobite, Pinhead, as the face of the series (just like Jason, Freddy, and Michael are the face of theirs). What is fairly different about the series is that Pinhead is not always the primary antagonist (and in some cases, could be seen as not an antagonist at all) nor is he always the cause of conflict. In fact, some films barely have his presence felt.

So, after a brief overview of the series let’s dive into the films themselves. We will explore some of it’s secrets and observe each film and I will give my general thoughts of each. And in case you haven’t figured it out, there will be some MASSIVE spoilers. You have been warned.

Next post: Hellraiser I – III.

For those of the curious/impatient breed, a lovely Hellraiser site for you to enjoy!

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