Today Bill Maher got with the times… that already passed…
Proud comedian and thought leader whose smug humor often called out the likes of Fox and Tucker Carlson is now ripping a page from their playbook. Luckily for him, it’s outdated enough nobody will put two and two together. Yes, Bill Maher is criticizing Universities a woke Leftist re-education camps. The problem is… Fox did it first.
Of course he ends his bit with well known Republicans who graduated from the schools he exposed as woke and leftist, I guess it’s hard to keep a consistent train of thought when you’ve been smug and sparsely funny for so long.
Actually the gender ideology criticism is 5 years old.
“Okiku and the World”: A Different Vision of Edo-Era Japan.
When it comes to jidaigeki (Japanese historical dramas), most people imagine honorable samurai and picturesque Edo-era villages. However, director Junji Sakamoto has a different vision in mind. His latest film, “Okiku and the World,” takes us to a grittier, darker side of Japan’s Edo era. The film recently screened at the International Film Festival Rotterdam.
The story begins in the summer of 1858 and follows the lives of two vagrants, Yasuke (Sosuke Ikematsu) and Chuji (Kanichiro), who trade in a unique commodity – human excrement. As they collect and sell the feces to farmers as fertilizer, they find humor in their lowly existence, but it doesn’t exempt them from poverty. In one of the tenements where Chuji collects manure, a woman named Okiku (Haru Kuroki) suffers a tragedy that changes her life forever.
From the opening frames, it’s clear that Junji Sakamoto is not interested in romanticizing Japan’s Edo era. Unlike other filmmakers who aim to capture the beauty and charm of the period, Sakamoto presents a raw, unvarnished vision of Edo, complete with rivers of feces running through the streets. However, the stunning black-and-white cinematography helps to mitigate some of the film’s more revolting imagery. The film also features brief moments of color, which highlight both the beautiful and the grotesque.
Throughout the film, Sakamoto sheds light on the stark class divisions of the era. The relationship between Yasuke and Chuji and their experiences as excrement traders are a clear representation of the exploitation of the poor by the rich. This theme is also reflected in the central romance between Okiku, the daughter of an outcast samurai, and Chuji, a peasant excrement trader. Despite limited screen time, their relationship is intimate and touching, serving as a heartwarming contrast to the otherwise bleak lives of other characters.
Although the film features tragic characters, it also has a strong sense of humor. Sosuke Ikematsu’s Yasuke provides comic relief, while Renji Ishibashi’s portrayal of the elderly Magohichi is darkly comedic. The film is filled with toilet humor, but it’s also littered with black comedy, such as when Magohichi happily reports that he intends to build his own coffin.
In conclusion, “Okiku and the World” is a shit-filled yet soulful jidaigeki that presents an unorthodox depiction of Edo-era Japan. Beautifully shot and filled with tender moments, this unique period drama is worth watching despite its darker themes.
Defying Tribal Boundaries and Embracing Forbidden Love in ‘Ash Moonlight’: A Sci-Fi YA Romance
One of the standout elements of “Ash Moonlight” is its vivid world-building.
Dewalt du Plessis’s debut novel, “Ash Moonlight,” whisks readers away to the captivating world of Geevena, where two souls from feuding tribes are drawn together by fate. This gripping tale masterfully weaves together a tapestry of romance tropes and high-stakes adventure, making it a must-read for both young adults and fans of the sci-fi genre.
The story introduces us to Mickayla, a resilient young woman whose world is divided by tribal rivalries and societal conventions. She finds herself irresistibly drawn to Caleb, an intelligent Ahusaka lad with a thirst for historical knowledge. As they navigate the complexities of their respective societies and their forbidden attraction, readers are taken on an exhilarating journey filled with surprising twists and emotional depth.
One of the standout elements of “Ash Moonlight” is its vivid world-building. Du Plessis paints a breathtaking picture of the planet Geevena, with its lush forests, ancient libraries, and enigmatic Hollow Sea Pirates. The author’s descriptive prowess allows readers to fully immerse themselves in this otherworldly setting, enhancing the overall reading experience.
The romance subplot in the novel is both heart-pounding and heartwarming. Mickayla and Caleb’s chemistry leaps off the page, and their struggles to defy societal norms and follow their hearts make for a compelling narrative. Du Plessis skillfully balances the sci-fi elements with the emotional depth of the characters, creating a story that resonates on multiple levels.
The book’s writing style is another noteworthy aspect. Du Plessis employs a fast pace and a straightforward, engaging narrative with short sentences that make it accessible and appealing to young adult readers. The story unfolds seamlessly, keeping readers hooked from the first page to the last.
As Mickayla and Caleb face challenges, make sacrifices, and ultimately follow their passions, readers can’t help but root for them. Their ability to form deep connections despite their differing backgrounds and the obstacles in their path is both expressive and resonant. It’s a testament to Dewalt du Plessis’s storytelling prowess that readers will find themselves emotionally invested in the characters’ fates.
In conclusion, “Ash Moonlight” is a captivating blend of romance and science fiction that transcends the boundaries of convention. Dewalt du Plessis’s expertly crafted world and memorable characters make this novel a standout in the genre. Whether you’re a fan of love stories or thrilling adventures, “Ash Moonlight” is sure to leave you eagerly awaiting du Plessis’s next literary offering. So, prepare to be transported to the enchanting world of Geevena and let yourself be swept away by the irresistible allure of “Ash Moonlight.”
Jeane Marie’s latest single, “Rub Me (Jeane in a Bottle),” is a refreshing take on Christina Aguilera’s classic “Genie in a Bottle.” The song exudes self-assuredness and empowerment, making it an anthem for thick women who confidently know their worth.
The self-assured verses in “Rub Me (Jeane in a Bottle)” showcase Jeane Marie’s strong vocal prowess and unique spin on the original track. There’s no doubt Jeane Marie has melody in her voice and a sexy pleasing tone. Her interpretation breathes new life into the song, making it both infectious and captivating.
And while we won’t delve into the music video itself, it’s worth noting that it is expected to draw significant views – like her other videos. Jeane Marie’s “Rub Me (Jeane in a Bottle)” is a catchy and empowering track that deserves recognition for its fresh perspective and empowering message.
Mixed Media Magazine 