One Love - Marianas Trench

Song of The Month!

One Love
by Marianas Trench

For the last month or so I've been listening to Marianas Trench nonstop, so I decided to put up one of my favourite songs from their newest album Astoria, as the Song of The Month. This song is called One Love, which was the first single released from the new album. I love Josh Ramsay's voice and this song is a great example of why. It's a really beautiful song and if you haven't already, I definitely recommend it! This is a slightly slower, sadder song than a lot of the other songs on the album, but it's really good.

Anyways, check out the song! Are there any Marianas Trench fans out there? I'd love to hear what you think of the new album!

~The Elf

Update!!

Update!!

Hey everyone,

This year's been pretty awful, in all honesty, but we've posted about ten more posts this year than last year, so I think it's progress. Hopefully 2016 is going to be a much more fun and relaxing year for us. 

Either way, thank you to everyone who keeps tuning into our blog and for reading our posts, no matter how irregular they are.

Merry Christmas from everyone here and we wish you all a happy New Year!

~The Elf

Flashback Friday

Deacon Blue (1985)

Formed in Glasgow, Scotland in 1985, Deacon Blue are a pop-rock band that really began their climb to fame in 1987, after releasing their debut album Raintown. They've released a total of seven studio albums and a studio/compilation album, many of which have been at the top of the UK album charts. 
Their first album peaked at No. 14 on the UK album charts and even managed to stay on the charts for a year and a half. After that, the band only seemed to become more successful. Their next album When the World Knows Your Name was their most successful album, reaching the No. 1 spot in the UK albums chart. The album after that, Fellow Hoodlums, managed to reach the No. 2 spot. The one after that, Whatever You Say, Say Nothing, reached No. 4. 
Although the band began to work part-time after that, they have still released and continue to release some amazing albums.

(Note: I've decided not to include their Compilation albums, their Live album or any of their Greatest Hits albums, just because that would take forever to write out.)

Studio Albums;
Raintown (1987)
1. "Born in a Storm" - 1:33
2. "Raintown" - 3:50
3. "Ragman" - 3:08
4. "He Looks Like Spencer Tracy Now" - 3:50
5. "Loaded" - 4:29
6. "When Will You (Make My Telephone Ring)?" - 5:05
7. "Chocolate Girl" - 3:18
8. "Dignity" - 4:00
9. "The Very Thing" - 3:34
10. "Love's Great Fears" - 3:42
11. "Town to Be Blamed" - 5:19

Bonus Tracks;
12. "Riches" - 2:39
13. "Kings of the Western World" - 2:39

The 2012 reissue of the album included songs such as;
14. "Which Side Are You On?" - 2:58
15. "Angeliou" - 6:18
16. "Just Like Boys" - 3:15
17. "Church" - 3:16
18. "Shifting Sand" - 3:18
19. "Suffering" - 2:43
20. "Ribbons and Bows" - 4:16
21. "Long Distance from Just Across the Road" - 2:54
22. "Ronnie Spector" - 3:33
23. "That Brilliant Feeling No.1" - 3:17
24. "Punch and Judy Man" - 3:52
25. "Disneyworld" - 2:58
26. "S.H.A.R.O.N" - 4:16

The legacy edition also included;
27. "Souvenirs" - 2:41
28. "Don't Let the Teardrops Start" - 3:22

When the World Knows Your Name (1989)
1. "Queen of the New Year" -3:36
2. "Wages Day" - 3:09
3. "Real Gone Kid" - 4:03
4. "Love and Regret" - 4:48
5. "Circus Lights" - 4:59
6. "This Changing Light" - 5:02
7. "Sad Loved Girl" - 1:11
8. "Fergus Sings the Blues" - 3:54
9. "The World Is Lit By Lightning" - 4:57
10. "Silhouette" - 3:18
11. "One Hundred Things" - 3:53
12. "Your Constant Heart" - 4:10
13. "Orphans" - 3:33

The 2012 reissue of the album included;
14. "Little Lincoln" - 3:06
15. "Born Again" - 3:23
16. "It's Not Funny Anymore" - 3:10
17. "Take Me to the Place" - 3:12
18. "Take the Saints Away" - 2:50
19. "Trampoline" - 3:40
20. "Long Window to Love" - 3:16
21. "London A to Z" - 3:35
22. "Back Here in Beanoland" - 3:04
23. "Down in the Flood" - 4:33
24. "Undeveloped Heart" - 3:38
25. "Dark End of the Street" - 2:06
26. "My America" - 4:11
27. "Las Vegas" - 3:56
28. "Love You Say" - 5:34
29. "Let Your Hearts Be Troubled" - 6:30
30. "Is It Cold Beneath the Hill?" - 4:04
31. "Killing the Blues" - 3:49
32. "Gentle Teardrops" - 3:14
33. "That Country" - 3:41
34. "Christine" -2:28

Fellow Hoodlums (1991)
1. "James Joyce Soles" - 3:50
2. "Fellow Hoodlums" - 3:20
3. "Your Swaying Arms" - 4:10
4. "Cover from the Sky" - 3:34
5. "The Day that Jackie Jumped the Jail" - 3:42
6. "The Wildness" - 5:42
7. "A Brighter Star Than You Will Shine" - 4:32
8. "Twist and Shout" - 3:34
9. "Closing Time" - 6:10
10. "Goodnight Jamsie" - 1:47
11. "I Will See You Tomorrow" - 3:20
12. "One Day I'll Go Walking" - 5:00

The 2012 reissue of the album included;
13. "Fourteen Years" - 2:44
14. "Faifley" - 1:41
15. "Good" - 3:08
16. "Golden Bells" - 2:27
17. "I Was Like That" - 4:29
18. "The Friends of Billy Bear" - 2:40
19. "Into the Good Night" - 3:43
20. "What Do You Want the Girl to Do?" - 5:04
21. "Wild Mountain Thyme" - 3:45
22. "I'll Never Fall in Love Again" - 2:46
23. "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" - 4:16
24. "I'm Down" - 2:36

Whatever You Say, Say Nothing (1993)
1. "Your Town" - 5:21
2. "Only Tender Love" - 5:10
3. "Peace & Jobs & Freedom" - 4:52
4. "Hang Your Head" - 4:05
5. "Bethlehem's Gate" - 4:47
6. "Last Night I Dreamed of Henry Thomas" - 3:45
7. "Will We Be Lovers?" - 3:56
8. "Fall So Freely Down" - 4:17
9. "Cut Lip" - 3:36
10. "All Over the World" - 3:26

The 2012 reissue of the album included;
11. "Almost Beautiful" - 4:15
12. "I've Been Making Such a Fool" - 2:23
13. "Sleeper" - 3:49
14. "Paint It Red" - 3:15
15. "Pimp Talking" - 2:48
16. "Cracks You Up" - 3:32
17. "Freedom Train" - 2:54
18. "Here on the Wind" - 5:04
19. "Indigo Sky" - 2:50

Homesick (2001)
1. "Rae" - 4:46
2. "Out There" - 3:46
3. "This Train Will Take You Anywhere" - 4:48
4. "Every Time You Sleep" - 4:06
5. "Now That You're Here" - 4:00
6. "Silverlake" - 4:36
7. "A is for Astronaut" - 3:03
8. "Beautifully Still" - 4:12
9. "Homesick" - 4:14
10. "Even Higher Ground" - 3:52
11. "I Am Born" - 4:22

The 2012 reissue of the album included;
12. "Hey Craig" - 3:52
13. "When You Were a Boy, You Were a Beautiful Boy" - 4:16

The Hipsters (2012)

1. "Here I Am in London Town" - 2:59
2. "The Hipsters" - 3:19
3. "Stars" - 3:42
4. "Turn" - 3:19
5. "The Rest" - 3:37
6. "The Outsiders" - 4:05
7. "That's What We Can Do" - 3:53
8. "She'll Understand" - 3:38
9. "Laura From Memory" - 3:25
10. "It Will in Tears" - 3:39

11. "Is There No Way Back to You?" - 4:22

A New House (2014)

1. "Bethlehem Begins" - 4:06
2. "For John Muir" - 3:07

3. "A New House" - 3:37

4. "An Ocean" - 3:19

5. "The Living" - 3:53

6. "I Wish I Was a Girl Like You" - 3:34

7. "Win" - 3:18

8. "Wild" - 3:04

9. "March" - 3:20

10. "Our New Land" - 3:57
11. "I Remember Every Single Kiss" - 4:15

I guess you can see why I decided not to write out every single song on every single album, considering how many are on these. Either way, if you want to listen to or find any more of their songs, they're relatively easy to find online. I personally haven't heard that many of their songs, mostly just the hits, but they're a good band with a good sound and I would certainly recommend checking them out for yourself!
~The Elf

Flashback Friday

Friday Flashback!

Christmas with the Kranks (2004)

Movie Information:

*Warning, this could (obviously) contain spoilers*

"For the first time, Luther Krank (Tim Allen) and his wife Nora (Jamie Lee Curtis) are about to celebrate the holidays without their daughter Blair (Julie Gonzalo), who has just left for the Peace Corps in Peru. Luther sees a Caribbean cruise poster in a Chicago travel agency window, and he begins to plan the trip. First he must see how he will pay for the trip, so he comes up with an idea that if they skipped Christmas, they could go. He will save money by not buying a tree, having a party, or putting up decorations. The neighbors think he is crazy and want him to at least put Frosty the Snowman on his roof for the local decoration contest. The battle begins between the Kranks and their neighbors. Then Blair calls and tells her parents that she is flying home for Christmas with her fiancée. They have twenty-four hours to put up all the decorations and prepare for the Christmas party. The movie was based on a John Grisham book, 'Skipping Christmas'." - Douglas Young (the-movie-guy)

My Review:

I've watched this movie like five times. It's really, really cheesy and lame, but it's still got it's good moments. When it comes to Christmas movies, I feel like this is one of the classics. It's pretty funny and it's a great family-friendly movie, which a lot of people like. It's predictable and the humour is exaggerated, but it's still an alright movie, if you don't die of some of the more cringe-worthy moments.

If you're looking for a family-friendly movie, then you've found one! What are your favourite Christmas movies?

~The Elf

The Pretender - Foo Fighters

Song of The Month!

The Pretender

by Foo Fighters

I know I haven't posted anything else this month, so I apologize for that. I'll officially be done with school this year in three days, which means I'll be back to making scheduled posts after that. Since next month will be Christmas, I'll try to post as often as possible, but I'm not sure how busy I'll be and therefore I'm not sure how much I'll be able to post.

In any case, I decided to put The Pretender as the Song of The Month for several reasons. The first simply being that it's by Foo Fighters. They are an amazing band, which I've been a fan of since I was young because my mother always loved them, so I figured it was about time I put up something about them. Another reason I love the band is because when it came to Dave Grohl it sort of became a way to see how he dealt with everything after Nirvana and how he's grown and changed. 

I chose The Pretender specifically because I remember quite vividly when it first came out. My mother and I watched the music video on MTV, watching as everything exploded and just came to life, red splattering everywhere. I don't really know why that is something I remember, but I always loved this video for some reason. It was a relevant song then and it's a relevant song now, so I figured why not?

Besides, The Pretender is no. 1 on Kerrang!'s 101 Most Definitive Party Classics, so it's only appropriate to share it with more people. I think everyone should hear this song at least once in their lives, so if you haven't already, you should listen to this great song!

~The Elf

Bloodstream - Stateless

Song of The Month!

Bloodstream

by Stateless

I just really like this song a the moment. There is literally no other reason.

*shrug*

You've probably heard it before, but if you haven't just check it out! It's a great song, which I think a lot of people already like and if you listen to it, you'll understand why.

It's not exactly a new song, but it's good, so you should listen to it!

~The Elf

Flashback Friday

Flashback Friday!

Friday the 13th (1980)

In the spirit of Halloween, I felt I should probably write up something about a scary movie. I couldn't decide on one for a while, but then I figured it should be a classic. That's how I ended up writing about Friday the 13th, the 1980 film.

Movie Information:

"Crystal Lake's history of murder doesn't deter counselors from setting up a summer camp in the woodsy area. Superstitious locals warn against it, but the fresh-faced young people -- Jack (Kevin Bacon), Alice (Adrienne King), Bill (Harry Crosby), Marcie (Jeannine Taylor) and Ned (Mark Nelson) -- pay little heed to the old-timers. Then they find themselves stalked by a brutal killer. As they're slashed, shot and stabbed, the counselors struggle to stay alive against a merciless opponent." - Google

My Review:

This movie is pretty shoddy compared to most movies that are out today, but it's a cult classic and definitely a must-see in the world of horror movies. This movie is one of the ones that you have to watch if you want to understand pop-culture references. Plus, it does have some really good moments in it and it inspire a lot of other awesome movies.

I would recommend it to everyone looking for a scary movie!

~The Elf

Flashback Friday

Flashback Friday!

I haven't done a book review in a while, but I decided to do another classic. This one is even older than the last, having been published in 1877. It was written by Anna Sewell and was published only five months before her death, but quickly became a best seller and is still one of the best selling books of all time.

Summary of the story:

"The story is narrated in the first person as an autobiographical memoir told by the titular horse named Black Beauty—beginning with his carefree days as a colt on an English farm with his mother, to his difficult life pulling cabs in London, to his happy retirement in the country. Along the way, he meets with many hardships and recounts many tales of cruelty and kindness. Each short chapter recounts an incident in Black Beauty's life containing a lesson or moral typically related to the kindness, sympathy, and understanding treatment of horses, with Sewell's detailed observations and extensive descriptions of horse behaviour lending the novel a good deal of verisimilitude.

The book describes conditions among London horse-drawn taxicab drivers, including the financial hardship caused to them by high licence fees and low, legally fixed fares. A page footnote in some editions says that soon after the book was published, the difference between 6-day taxicab licences (not allowed to trade on Sundays) and 7-day taxicab licences (allowed to trade on Sundays) was abolished and the taxicab licence fee was much reduced." - Wikipedia

My review:

The whole point of the book was to "to induce kindness, sympathy, and an understanding treatment of horses," which I think it does pretty well. I read this book when I was fairly young, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's a brilliantly written novel that invokes a lot of sympathy in the reader, especially when it comes to some scenes where they describe animal cruelty towards Black Beauty and other horses. This book was a very influential part in the anti-cruelty campaigns going on at the time, and even to this day is often referenced when it comes to cruelty towards horses. I think this is an amazing book that everyone should read, whether or not you like reading, care about horses or about animals in general, I think everyone should read it. It's not overly complicated and it paints a vivid image in your mind, which I think is one of the many things that make this book so amazing to read.

If you haven't read Black Beauty already, I really think you should! Are there any other classic fans out there?

~The Elf 

Hollywood Undead (2005)

From left to right; Funny Man, Charlie Scene, J-Dog, Danny, Da Kurlzz and Johnny 3 Tears.

Hollywood Undead

Hollywood Undead are one of my favourite bands and the band that all of my friends and I fan over. My siblings and I all love their music and are always listening to them. They are an American rap rock band from Los Angeles, California that formed in 2005. They have six members who all go by stage names, although you can easily find out their real names online, each wearing their own unique mask. They change their masks every few years, usually when a new album comes out, but it's just a variation of the previous mask, so it's not hard to tell who is who after you learn what their mask is.

In any case, my friends and I all love Hollywood Undead, so since I posted one of their songs as the song of the month, I figured I should do a band review. Although I love the band, I'm aware not everyone does and some of their songs are quite explicit or can be offensive, so you can check them out at your own risk.

Studio Albums;

Swan Songs (2008)

1. "Undead" - 4:25

2. "Sell Your Soul" - 3:14

3. "Everywhere I Go" - 3:30

4. "No Other Place" - 3:16

5. "No. 5" - 3:05

6. "Young" - 3:16

7. "Black Dahlia" - 3:46

8. "This Love, This Hate" - 3:57

9. "Bottle and a Gun" - 3:22

10. "California" - 3:17

11. "City" - 3:34

12. "The Diary" - 4:35

13. "Pimpin'" - 3:07

14. "Paradise Lost" - 3:11

In some of the other editions of the album, you could also get;

15. "Pain" - 2:41

16. "The Natives" - 3:40

17. "Knife Called Lust" - 2:59

18. "The Loss" - 3:15

19. "Bitches" - 3:30

20. "The Kids" - 3:01

21. "Circles" - 3:33

American Tragedy (2011)

1. "Been to Hell" - 3:23

2. "Apologize" - 3:27

3. "Comin' in Hot" - 3:43

4. "My Town" - 3:36

5. "I Don't Wanna Die" - 3:59

6. "Hear Me Now" - 3:34

7. "Gangsta Sexy" - 3:54

8. "Glory" - 3:34

9. "Lights Out" - 3:51

10. "Coming Back Down" - 3:23

11. "Bullet" - 3:18

12. "Levitate" - 3:24

13. "Pour Me" - 4:03

14. "Tendencies" - 3:32

In the deluxe edition there were four extra tracks;

15. "Mother Murder" - 4:10

16. "Lump Your Head" - 3:37

17. "Le Deux" - 3:45

18. "S.C.A.V.A." - 4:04

iTunes also had a bonus track;

19. "Street Dreams" - 4:04

Notes from the Underground (2013)

1. "Dead Bite" - 3:38

2. "From the Ground" - 3:45

3. "Another Way Out" - 2:47

4. "Lion" - 3:54

5. "We Are" - 4:34

6. "Pigskin" - 2:41

7. "Rain" - 3:41

8. "Kill Everyone" - 2:52

9. "Believe" - 4:14

10. "Up In Smoke" - 3:38

11. "Outside" - 4:43

In some of the other editions of the album, you could also get;

12. "Medicine" - 3:26

13. "One More Bottle" - 3:40

14. "Delish" - 3:07

15. "I Am" - 3:23

16. "New Day" - 3:50

Day of the Dead (2015)

1. "Usual Suspects" - 3:44

2. "How We Roll" - 4:45

3. "Day of the Dead" - 3:55

4. "War Child" - 3:58

5. "Dark Places" - 4:39

6. "Take Me Home" - 3:48

7. "Gravity" - 3:19

8. "Does Everybody in the World Have to Die" - 3:17

9. "Disease" - 3:31

10. "Party by Myself" - 4:10

11. "Live Forever" - 3:40

12. "Save Me" - 3:27

In some of the other editions of the album, you could also get;

13. "Guzzle, Guzzle" - 3:39

14. "I'll Be There" - 4:01

15. "Let Go" - 4:16

16. "Ghost" - 3:21

17. "Sing" - 4:05

18. "Fuck the World" - 4:09

They are an amazing band, though not for everyone, but I'd still recommend checking them out! The band's sound has changed a lot over the years, but they still have a lot of unbelievably good songs with deep meaning, as well as songs that easily energize you and get you moving. They have an amazing sound and brilliant voices to go with it, so you should check them out and see what you think!

~The Elf

Flashback Friday

Flashback Friday!

Clueless (1995)

Movie Information:

"Cher Horowitz and her friend Dionne, two of the most popular sophomores in school, play matchmakers for two teachers. Inspired by their success, Cher takes under her wing Tai, a "clueless" transfer student. While trying to make an advantageous match for Tai, Cher attempts to find a boyfriend of her own. Several misfires take place, due to poor communication, before she finds the Baldwin of her dreams." - Written by James Meek

My Review:

Honestly, I only recently watched this movie. I know, shocker. Seriously though, as I've stated in previous reviews, I'm not really into all the cliche chick flicks, so I never saw the point. I did however have a really boring holiday a few months ago and decided I might as well see what the fuss is about.

To my surprise the movie wasn't as terrible as I thought it was going to be. It ended up being pretty good, which is a great feat if you ask me. At first it all seems very cotton-candy and bubbly, but there's an underlying message in the movie that gives it a much deeper meaning. Besides, it's got a heavy dose of comedy in there too, so what's not to like?

Personally, I'm not the biggest fan of this movie, but I definitely understand why it became such a cult-classic. I would definitely recommend it to anyone that doesn't mind a fluffy, high school drama, or a laugh.

~The Elf

Kiss It All Better - He Is We

Song of The Month!

Kiss It All Better

By He Is We

This month has been another shitty one for the blog, but I'm trying to fix that this week and next week. Anyway, I should probably warn you that this song is really sad. The meaning is pretty obvious once you hear it; it's about a man who is sitting in his jail cell, remembering the night a man shot the love of his life and dropped the gun. He then picked up the gun and shot the guy who killed his love.

It's really sad, but it's also beautiful.

In any case, as usual, I encourage you to listen to the song and check out He Is We, since a lot of their stuff is really good. I hope you like the song, it's really quite fantastic and emotional.

~The Elf

Flashback Friday

Flashback Friday

Guilty Conscience

by Eminem ft. Dr Dre

In this song, written by Eminem and Dr Dre, tells the story of three men who are all going to commit violent or sexual crimes or are doing things that calls their morels into action. Eminem plays the bad side of the Conscience where as Dr Dre plays the good side. The song runs through the three stories where Eminem and Dr Dre are trying to convince the three what is the right thing to do.

During the first verse, a man is going to rob a store to help pay for his family; Dr Dre tries to convince the man that this was not the right thing to do, where as Eminem tries to convince the man that he can get away with the crime. The man chooses the right thing to do and does not rob the store - instead he leaves.

In the second verse a young man finds a fifteen year old girl, drunk at a party; Eminem tries to convince they man that if he slips something into her drink, he will get away with doing what he likes with her, where as Dr Dre tries to convince him that it was not right to take advantage of this young woman, that he would go to jail and ruin this girl's life. The man decides that the right thing to do is take advantage of the girl.

The third and final verse is about a man who comes home from a long day to find his wife with another man; Eminem tells the man that he should kill both his wife and the man and then take the child and leave, while Dr Dre begins to try and calm the man down, saying that there could be a reasonable explanation for what is going on, but Eminem antagonizes him and Dr Dre eventually agrees with Eminem that the moral thing to do is kill both of the wife and he lover.

<Merlin>

Update!!

Hey everyone! 

Well, I'm going to have to start this out with another apology. The Elder was supposed to do a Flashback Friday this week, but he only now told me that he hasn't, so I don't have time to do one. Thankfully, my exams are finally over, so I'm going to spend the next three weeks writing up posts and putting them in the schedule thing. Probably should've done that a long time ago, but... oh well.

Sorry about not posting today, but I'll make sure to post next week.

~The Elf

Dance with the Devil - Breaking Benjamin

Song of The Month!

Dance with the Devil

By Breaking Benjamin

First of all, I think I should start out by apologizing to everyone who were hoping for something non-fandom related. I've been watching the Vampire Diaries again, as of late and I've always loved this song. Me being the total fangirl I am, listened to plenty of playlists online about the Vampire Diaries, their characters and relationships in the show. I came across this video, which I think was done very well, about Damon and Elena, and Klaus and Caroline. If you're into the Vampire Diaries, you'll probably love the video, because it was done really well. If you don't like the Vampire Diaries, I'd still at least listen to the video, because this song on it's own is brilliant.

I've always loved Breaking Benjamin and their music, but I haven't been as drawn in by their music lately, until I heard some of their songs on playlists. I honestly love their music and it can usually be interpreted in a number of ways, but they're always good to listen to.

Anyway, check out the song! And if you like it, you should check out Breaking Benjamin's other music!

~The Elf

Flashback Friday

Flashback Friday

Fable: The Lost Chapters is an extended version of the original fable developed by Lionhead Studios and released on the 20th September 2005. Set in the nation of Albion, the player assumes the role of an orphaned boy that becomes a great hero. The player can make choices which changes how the people of Albion react to the hero and changes the appearance of the character depending on if the player chooses to do evil deeds or good deeds. The hero goes on a quest to find out what happened to the hero's family, the player can also go on optional quests, trade, steal and romance characters in the game.

This game is a very enjoyable action-rpg, easy to get use to and the fighting is fun. You can work on being close combat focused, being an archer, mage or a little of all of them making the game fun for however you want to play. You can also be evil or good which changes what happens in the game because people act differently towards you. The hero can also get titles like "Chicken Chaser" and Paladin which people will call you. This game is entertaining and you should definitely give it a go.

*The Elder*

Kingsman: The Secret Service

Kingsman: 

The Secret Service (2014)

Movie Information:

"Based upon the acclaimed comic book and directed by Matthew Vaughn, Kingsman: The Secret Service tells the story of a super-secret spy organization that recruits an unrefined but promising street kid into the agency's ultra-competitive training program just as a global threat emerges from a twisted tech genius." - Written by 20th Century Fox

My Review:

This movie was brilliant! I loved it. Most movies these days aren't as ballsy as this one was. Dirty humour, bad language and random, crazy violence are all in this movie, but done in a sort of elegant way. It's kind of just a way dirtier and funnier version of James Bond. It is definitely not for easily offended or squeamish people because Matthew Vaughn most certainly took some risks with this movie, but it worked out to be absolutely fantastic! The entire movie is just one crazy ride, that will keep you guessing the whole way through, without being serious at all. I mean, the whole movie is about a guy trying to kill everyone, but most of the movie is spent screwing around in the training parts, which just makes it hilarious. 

Not only that, but the cast is just brilliant. Seriously, Samuel L. Jackson with a lisp? Best villain in existence. And don't forget Colin Firth, who is usually seen as much more of a tense character, totally kicks ass in this movie! I also think the guy who plays the main character, Taron Egerton, is worth mentioning because he did so amazingly in Kingsman. He really proved himself and I think he did brilliantly. Another thing I think people aren't mentioning enough about this movie is the soundtrack, which was amazing and really well done. It definitely added well to the story and were played at the perfect moments.

Obviously not everyone is going to love it, which is fine, but I honestly thought it was brilliant. The movie isn't very serious and is honestly hilarious. I would definitely recommend it, though it's probably only suitable for people 16+.

~The Elf

Maleficent (2014)

Maleficent (2014)

Movie Information:

"A beautiful, pure-hearted young woman, Maleficent has an idyllic life growing up in a peaceable forest kingdom, until one day when an invading army threatens the harmony of the land. Maleficent rises to be the land's fiercest protector, but she ultimately suffers a ruthless betrayal - an act that begins to turn her pure heart to stone. Bent on revenge, Maleficent faces a battle with the invading king's successor and, as a result, places a curse upon his newborn infant Aurora. As the child grows, Maleficent realizes that Aurora holds the key to peace in the kingdom - and perhaps to Maleficent's true happiness as well." - Written by Walt Disney Pictures

My Review:

I was told multiple times by my friends that I had to see this movie, so I finally got around to it last week. I wasn't really looking forward to it because lately I've been getting really sick of fairy tale movies, but honestly it was still really good. It gives you a different view of the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty, which is always a good thing, plus it had a great cast! I mean, hello, Angelina Jolie! It isn't exactly a movie for a huge new take on the story line, but it's cute and it has some awesome actors and actresses in it. It's not a movie with huge impact or life changing double meanings, it's not very serious in my opinion, but it shows you the story in a new light and is definitely worth watching. It has a dragon in it! Totally worth it.

Also, I just really loved Sam Riley's character Diaval. He was just really cool and I would probably watch the movie again just for his character, but of course there's also Angelina Jolie and Elle Fanning, both of which were great in this movie. It's a really adorable film, so I would recommend it to anyone who doesn't mind sitting through yet another retake of a fairy tale.

It's rated PG because some of the fight sequences and such would probably scare younger kids, not to mention Maleficent is quite intimidating and there are a few scenes that could upset a younger viewer, but for the most part it's enjoyable for young people. It's probably not something adults would really care about, but if you're into Disney at all, I'd definitely recommend it. Otherwise kids and teens would probably enjoy it most, keeping in mind that youngsters should probably be supervised.

In any case, it's a movie I would happily suggest to anyone, so check it out!

~The Elf

Flashback Friday

Flashback Friday!

10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

Movie Information:

"Meet the Stratford sisters: pretty and popular Bianca, who has never had a date; and Kat, her older sibling, an ill-tempered harridan whose acerbic wit is matched only by her steadfast determination to alienate any guy who might be remotely interested in her. Unfortunately, strict rules in the Stratford household forbid Bianca from having a boyfriend until her odious sister has one of her own-a situation that seems highly improbable considering Kat is a social disaster. Bianca's desperation for romance turns into a convoluted scheme to match Kat with her male equivalent--a guy whose reputation is so infamous, Kat might rise to the challenge and find him worthy of her concealed charms. Mating mayhem ensues when Patrick Verona -- a sullen young man with a mysterious past -- is bribed by Bianca's wannabe boyfriend to woo and win Kat, in order to clear the way for Bianca to begin dating." - Written by Movie Buff

My Review:

As a huge Shakespeare fan, this revamped version of his play 'Taming of the Shrew,' is something I love to watch. Not only does Heath Ledger play badboy Patrick Verona, but the movie is hilarious and honestly an adorable love story. I can tell you right now; this is the only chick flick I've ever voluntarily watched more than once. If you want a funny, kind of predictable chick flick with some hot guys, dorky attempts at wooing girls and some romantic scenes that will melt your heart - this is the movie for you.

Not all of the reviews on this movie are great, but in my humble opinion, it is definitely a movie worth watching. With stars such as Heath Ledger, Julia Stiles, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Larisa Oleynik and many more, this movie is something that many people will enjoy. Although most people see it as a chick flick, and I'm more than willing to agree with that, I know a lot of guys who have watched this movie too and thoroughly enjoyed it. It's not a serious movie and it doesn't have the most intense or exciting plot, but it's funny, light and definitely a movie I would recommend to anyone.

I recently managed to convince two of my best friends, my mother and her best friend to watch it and they loved it just as much as I do. The music is great, the story is amusing and the characters are interesting and strange in their own ways.

If you want something random and funny to watch on Movie Night, I would absolutely suggest this movie. Although it's probably best suited for teenagers, people of many ages are sure to enjoy it, though there are some references and jokes that are probably not suitable for a younger audience.

In any case, I hope you all watch the movie! It's worth it! I leave you now with this great quote; "The shit hath hitith the fan...ith."

Anyone else miss Heath Ledger greatly?

~ The Elf

Sound of Your Heart - Shawn Hook

Song of The Month!

Sound of Your Heart

By Shawn Hook

I heard this song for the first time the other day, which is the first I've ever heard of Shawn Hook. I've listened to a few of his songs since, which I'm proud to say are also awesome. I figured I should share this song though, since it was the first I heard of his, it's the most recently released and it is honestly an amazing song. I don't know much about Shawn Hook or his music yet, but I think if you want some catchy love songs, you should definitely check him out.

I don't have much more to say about it at this stage, except that I love his voice and I hope you do, too. I'll definitely be researching more into him and listening to his music more often, so maybe I'll post a review about him one day. 

In the mean time, I think everyone should check out his music and see what you think! His music is catchy and much more pop than what I usually listen to, but it's still some amazing songs.

~ The Elf

Just Like You - Falling in Reverse

Song of The Month!

Just Like You

by Falling in Reverse

First of all, this song is amazing and the video is pretty funny. Ronnie Radke, the lead vocalist, has come under a lot of criticism and by default so has Falling in Reverse, but honestly I don't really care what kind of people they are - I care about what their music sounds like. Their newest album, also called Just Like You, is actually pretty good. 

Anyway, that's beside the point. This song is ... actually I'm not even sure how to explain it. It's catchy and pretty sarcastic, really. Then when you get to the chorus, you get hooked and it's one of those songs that get you pumped, even though the song's kind of insulting. Then, if you watch the music video, it's pretty funny. They take the piss of The Voice, so that's always gonna be entertaining. There's also an extended version of the music video, which is a full minute longer and is pretty much just a "before the show" sort of thing. It's honestly worth listening to, because one way or another it's gonna put you in a better mood.

Do we have any Falling in Reverse fans out there?

~The Elf

Flashback Friday

Flashback Friday!

Hey Ya! 

by OutKast 

This isn't very old, but considering how quickly music changes and what was once popular becomes long forgotten, I figured it was about time I all remind you of a song that everyone I know has listened to at least once. If you've heard anything by OutKast, you have to have heard this song. Billboard even named it the 20th most successful song of the 2000s decade in the U.S. 

Have you ever heard the phrase "shake it like a Polaroid picture?" Well, this song was actually what made it popular. In the video there's a live performance by a band, all of which's members are actually played by Andre 3000. The video is very eccentric and unique, much like the song itself, and makes the whole thing a roller coaster of fun and weirdness.

It's a very catchy song and honestly just a very fun upbeat thing to listen to. It definitely lightens the mood. If you've heard it before, I hope you're enjoying it again, but if you've never heard it before I hope you now love OutKast - which you should.

Did anyone else love singing this on SingStar, or is that just me?

~The Elf

Flashback Friday

Flashback Friday!

Dark Angel

Plot Summary:

"In a future of political, economic and moral collapse, a genetically enhanced superhuman prototype named Max escapes from military confines and dwells amidst the decadent underground street life of *Seattle* to avoid government agents who want to bring her back into the fold. Searching for others of her kind who were scattered in the aftermath of her escape, Max encounters Logan, an idealistic cyber-journalist battling repression and corruption in post-apocalypse America. Eventually, Logan calls her to the highest part of her being and Max becomes his samurai as the pair takes on the ruthless power-brokers of the new millennium. Max and Logan's odyssey leads them closer to the secret of her past, deepening and complicating their relationship in the process." - written by Ronos.

Dark Angel has been one of my family's favourite shows ever since I can remember. It's an amazing show with a very interesting plot and many interesting characters. I think it's one of the best shows ever made, but - just like Firefly - was cancelled before it got to have all the development it deserved. With famous faces like Jessica Alba, Michael Weatherly and Jensen Ackles, Dark Angel is definitely a must-see TV series, if you ask me. The series has even been rated 4.7/5 on Amazon, 8.8/10 on TV.com and 7.4/10 on IMDB. Anyway, Dark Angel is action-packed, filled with a lot of very entertaining storylines and some pretty hilarious one-liners, too.

Main Characters:

Max Guevara

played by Jessica Alba

Logan Cale/Eyes Only

played by Michael Weatherly

Cynthia "Original Cindy" McEachin

played by Valerie Rae Miller 

Calvin "Sketchy" Theodore

played by Richard Gunn

Reagan "Normal" Ronald

played by J. C. MacKenzie

Herbal Thought

played by Alimi Ballard

Kendra Maibaum

played by Jennifer Blanc

Col. Donald Lydecker

played by John Savage

Alec McDowell

played by Jensen Ackles

Ames White

played by Martin Cummins

Joshua

played by Kevin Durand

Asha Barlow

played by Ashley Scott

If you're looking for a new show, but don't really like anything that's out right now, give Dark Angel a go. I can honestly tell you right now if you like any futuristic/fantasy shows, you're gonna love this.

~ The Elf