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Tag: 2023

  • Unbelievable facts

    Unbelievable facts

    In 2023, scientists discovered that Earth’s inner core is slowing down and may even be…

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  • Another Milestone

    Another Milestone

    I started at 370lb on March 22nd 2023. I was 24 and had never been below 300lb since middle school. Just a little past the 1 year mark and I’m 25 and almost into the 240s now. My ultimate goal is 185 and it feels more achievable than ever before. It still doesn’t feel real, I can fit into regular Large clothing sizes now, granted they’re still snug but they won’t be in another 20lb or so. A year ago I was almost fitting just right into 4XL.

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  • The Best of Hell 2023 Part 2: Camry’s Picks

    The Best of Hell 2023 Part 2: Camry’s Picks

    Camry

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  • These are the 10 Most Overrated & Overhyped Games of 2023, Cry More

    These are the 10 Most Overrated & Overhyped Games of 2023, Cry More

    2023 was admittedly a pretty good time for gaming, but not all of this year’s triple-A titles were worth their price tags. Grab your popcorn and power up your consoles as we embark on a journey through the pixelated pitfalls of the most overrated games of 2023!

    Forspoken

    Image Source: Luminous Productions via IGDB

    Welcome to the enchanting world of Forspoken, where the only magical thing about it is the sheer amount of dedication it must’ve taken to turn all of the most cliché fantasy tropes into a “choose your own adventure” eye-roll. After the first few admittedly entertaining hours of this game, it’s like the developers just gave up and threw in some fancy fireworks to distract you from the fact that the story is as about as exciting as a wizard’s grocery list.

    This game plays like a terrible self-insert Wattpad fanfiction. Forspoken boldly goes where every young adult fantasy book has gone before, with a storyline so generic you’ll wonder if they used a Mad Libs template. Its flashy combat and parkour system only just barely make it worth playing, but even they can’t save it from being one of the most overrated games of 2023.

    The Lord of the Rings: Gollum

    The Lord of the Rings Gollum Steam Page Cover Image
    Image Source: Daedalic Entertainment via Steam

    Why, in an ever-expanding universe teeming with iconic characters, did someone ever think that playing an entire game as Gollum would be a good idea? Who is this game for? What is it even meant to achieve?? Literally who even asked for this game??? I feel like this game might have had some potential if there was any actual demand for it, or if the developers had even tried to take their jobs seriously.

    Forget the solid action of previous Middle-earth games, as Gollum invites you to revel in thrilling activities like brutal busywork, uninspired and hair-pulling platforming, and a masterclass in bad stealth mechanics that even Sauron would cringe at. Honestly, I’m baffled that they even felt confident enough to release this bad excuse for a game; the only people I would recommend this game to are the most die-hard, tunnel-vision eccentric Lord of the Rings fans — or maybe Gollum’s therapist.

    Redfall

    Redfall Cover Artwork
    Image Source: Arkane Austin via IGDB

    Step into the nightmarish world of Redfall, where even the undead might rise from their graves to ask for a refund! This game, though labeled as a co-op shooter, is more like a haunted house of glitches, awkward AI, and pop-in nightmares that not even garlic could ward off. It’s not just the vampires that suck here — button commands vanish like ghostly apparitions, random NPCs pull their best Houdini acts at the worst of times, and the story scenes are so cheap and overused, they make thrift stores look like luxury boutiques.

    Redfall is, without a doubt, one of the most depressingly overhyped games to come out in recent years; plagued with insurmountable glitches, constant bugs, and tired gameplay mechanics, Redfall didn’t stand a chance against the rest of 2023’s major game releases. Not only was Redfall not worth its price tag, it wasn’t worth playing at all.

    Final Fantasy XVI

    Final Fantasy XVI Title Artwork
    Image Source: Square Enix via IGDB

    Now this one might be a bit of a controversial choice for this list, but hear me out here. Final Fantasy XVI has absolutely no personality whatsoever; its side quests are unbelievably uninspired, the loot is even worse, and its world exploration is the most unrewarding waste of time I’ve ever seen in an RPG. Not to mention the fact that this game is unbelievably easy to play; the only people who might like this game are kids because it literally takes almost no brainpower to play.

    After all, who needs challenging quests and immersive storylines when you can have the thrill of pressing the same buttons repeatedly over and over again without ever breaking a sweat? This game is a fantasy alright, but not the kind you’d ever want to write home about. Final Fantasy XVI — where the only thing that’s final is your patience with uninspiring sidequests and brainless gameplay. If you’ve played the last few entries in the Final Fantasy series, then congratulations, you may as well have already played this one.

    Star Wars Jedi: Survivor

    Star Wars Jedi Survivor Title Artwork
    Image Source: Respawn Entertainment via IGDB

    Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is, without a doubt, one of the most overhyped and overpriced games of 2023. Anyone who tries to defend this game is either in complete denial, has never played any other Star Wars game before, or is just super embarrassed about the fat wad of cash they had to hand over just to play it.

    Survivor’s PC port especially suffered from numerous technical glitches, rendering the gaming experience near-broken and far from seamless, while the overhyped performance mode failed to impress even the most indifferent of players; it’s even been labeled by many as possibly the worst of its generation. The game’s narrative and NPCs were unimaginative at best and completely uninspired at worst, and its outdoor exploration, puzzles, and combat (all pivotal aspects of any action-adventure title) were deemed similarly lacking.

    The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria

    The Lord of the Rings Return to Moria Cover Artwork
    Image Source: Free Range Games via IGDB

    Speaking of games that fell far short of the mark, Return to Moria is easily considered by many to be one of the most overhyped, overrated games of 2023 by far. It’s not quite as bad as Gollum, but come on; it’s a barely passable title within the Lord of the Rings franchise, and honestly, I can’t even believe that anyone thought this game was a good idea.

    What many LOTR fans might be surprised to know about Return to Moria is that it’s actually barely even a Lord of the Rings game at all; Return to Moria is more like a random survival game that just so happens to take place in a world that’s very loosely based off of J.R.R Tolkien’s works. If you’ve played literally any fantasy survival game within the last decade, then congratulations, you’ve essentially already played Return to Moria.

    Crime Boss: Rockay City

    Crime Boss Rockay City Cover Artwork
    Image Source: INGAME STUDIOS via IGDB

    Welcome to Crime Boss: Rockay City, where decades-old nostalgia meets present-day regret, and the in-game 90s backdrop feels less like a golden era and more like a cautionary tale of what we all collectively chose to forget. Despite a commendable level of earnestness in its creation, Rockay City’s charm just couldn’t quite mask the overall sloppiness of its design.

    Crime Boss: Rockay City just couldn’t quite manage to do itself any justice, no matter how hard it tried. Its outright atrocious voice acting and frustratingly repetitive mission design were enough to scare most of its potential player base away, and its unoriginal single-player storyline and unnecessarily complex co-op mode were enough to drive away the rest. In the end, Crime Boss: Rockay City was its own worst enemy; maybe if the developers had spent a little more time on it and hadn’t hyped it up so much prior to its release, it would have been met with more positive reviews.

    Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

    Marvel's Spider-Man 2 Cover Artwork
    Image Source: Insomniac Games via IGDB

    Despite high expectations for a next-gen leap into the friendly neighborhood Spiderverse, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 seems to have fallen short of the mark quite spectacularly. For starters, the game’s overall lack of environmental realism is honestly embarrassing for a game made in the 21st century; the game’s “interactable” environments lack any form of destructible elements, hindering player immersion to an unforgivable degree.

    Furthermore, its combat, a long-established staple of the Spider-Man experience, has consistently been described as overly repetitive, leaving players longing for a more dynamic and engaging system. Perhaps the most stinging blow of all, however, comes in the form of the game’s narrative, which easily stands as the weakest of Insomniac’s roster of Spider-Man games. In the end, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, while delivering on the web-slinging spectacle, falls short of the expectations set by its predecessors and its promise of next-gen innovation, earning it a top spot among the year’s most overrated releases.

    Everybody 1-2-Switch

    Everybody 1-2-Switch Cover Artwork
    Image Source: Nintendo Entertainment Planning & Development/NDcube via IGDB

    Have you ever wanted to play a game so devoid of any and all emotion and personality that it legitimately fills you with rage? Well then congratulations, you’ve found your match with Everybody 1-2-Switch! Prepare for the party game apocalypse with this sorry excuse for an entertainment elevator; this game somehow manages to suck any and all joy out of gaming faster than a vacuum in zero gravity.

    Everybody 1-2-Switch boasts a tedious catalog of unoriginal party games that are, surprisingly, meant to entertain friends and families. It’s the kind of experience that makes you long for a simpler time when the biggest party game dilemma was choosing Mario Kart characters, not enduring a digital gathering that feels more like purgatory than a celebration.

    Diablo IV

    Diablo IV Steam Cover Image
    Image Source: Blizzard Entertainment via Steam

    Last but not least, we come to Diablo IV, arguably one of the most highly anticipated game releases of 2023. Diablo IV just feels like a slightly worse, reskinned version of Diablo III, and I can’t even believe that the developers at Blizzard can sleep at night with how much they’re charging for it.

    Any self-respecting, long-time Diablo fan would agree that Diablo IV’s uninventive gameplay is way too easy, especially when compared to the previous entries in the Diablo game series. The boss battles feel tedious at best, the world bosses are far too easy, and its dungeons are so repetitive and undifferentiated that they all begin to blur together after only a few runs. Overall, it’s an okay game for newcomers to the series, but for veterans of the franchise, it just feels like one big disappointment.

    And that’s it for our curated list of all of the most overrated games of 2023! From soulless storylines to maddening mechanics, this year’s disappointments have proven that even in the realm of pixels and polygons, not all that glitters is gold. If you want to take a peek at what 2024 has in store for the gaming community, be sure to check out Twinfinite’s list of the “Most Anticipated Games of 2024“!

    About the author

    Allysen Pierce

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  • Best Story & Narrative Games of 2023

    Best Story & Narrative Games of 2023

    Staff votes have all been collected, and we have decided on our top three story & narrative games of 2023. These shouldn’t be too much of a shocker if you have been following our reviews, but paying credit to the best of the best in 2023 is still very important.

    For many players, the story of a game is just as important as the gameplay, if not more important, so we wanted to look back and the best this year had to offer.

    2nd Runner-Up: Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

    Image Source: Insomniac Games via Twinfinite

    Writer Nick Rivera: At this point, it’s no secret that Spider-Man 2 was nominated for seven Game Awards and didn’t win a single one. In a year of 100+ hour campaigns, Spider-Man 2’s was certainly concise, but it hit many of the points many players were hoping it would.

    Spider-Man 2 had a lot of new content being incorporated to keep it fresh, but it was also serving as a sequel for two separate games. While Miles Morales was shorter than the initial Spider-Man game, it felt like Spider-Man 2 could have benefited from being longer and further fleshing out more of the characters from both entries and letting the story flow a bit more naturally.

    Insomniac pulled from a wide array of Spider-Man content, and they did a tasteful job of keeping things fresh while also maintaining the familiarity that makes the audience love these stories in the first place. The story felt like a true-to-heart Spider-Man game, but it’s in two different niches, which are both what keeps it so celebrated while keeping it from being greater.

    At its core, Spider-Man 2 is a comic book title, which can be enough to deter players who simply aren’t interested, not to mention being a sequel. On top of that, it’s a PS5 exclusive, immediately leaving out players on other platforms and PS4. Compare that to games like Alan Wake 2 and Baldur’s Gate 3, and it becomes clear that it just didn’t have the chops to stand up in a year full of heavyweights.

    Runner-Up: Alan Wake 2

    Alan Wake 2
    Image Source: Remedy Entertainment via Twinfinite

    Writer Cameron Waldrop: The first Alan Wake was released 13 years ago, and in that time period, Remedy Entertainment truly honed its craft. The games that followed Alan Wake built upon its core ideas, offering well-crafted characters and paranormal intrigue. The Alan Wake character even surfaced in Control to give fans a taste of where the character has been after sinking into the Dark Place.

    All of this combined into making Alan Wake 2 almost like meeting an old friend again after a long time. The first moment Saga Anderson picks up a Manuscript Page and Alan Wake narrates feels so familiar that you’re hooked on the mystery of the story before you know it. Experiencing the story from two different points of view allows it to breathe and keep you on your toes.

    Though there is a clear delineation between what is the real world and the Dark Place, watching things mix and turn puts everything upside down for probably the best horror story that 2023 had to offer. Plus, the game knows when to break the narrative and let you run around an actual concert, and that’s extremely commendable.

    Winner: Baldur’s Gate 3

    Baldur's Gate 3
    Image Source: Larian Studios

    Writer Jake Su: When it comes to storytelling via the medium of video games, there isn’t really a set way to go about things. There’s always the hero’s journey, an obvious penchant for evil, or usually, somewhere in between. For Larian Studios’ Baldur’s Gate 3, players are given the option to go where their heart desires, with no restrictions on the scale of morality, while the narrative evolves and works with your decisions. Lesser games have buckled under that promise, but not Baldur’s Gate 3.

    All of it is only enhanced by some of the best-written characters in gaming history, period. More than just vessels that enable your own adventures, these are individuals with their own feelings, agendas, and motivations, making them unique and memorable right down to the very end. More importantly, they will grow alongside the player, reflecting the values that you hold dear, and making sure the world sees it clearly while either joining the cause or staying out of the way.

    This is a role-playing experience that lives up to the name, where the story takes you from ridiculous to awesome across hours and hours spent in this rich world, brought to life with excellent writing and even better characters. The breadth of adventures and storytelling on show are astounding, filled with decisions big and small that could very well have major ramifications down the line, or not. Such as in life, you never know where a choice will lead, and that is a brilliant concept realized in BG3 over and over again, making it a tale that is truly your own.

    About the author

    Cameron Waldrop

    Cameron is a freelance writer for Twinfinite and regularly covers battle royales like Fortnite and Apex Legends. He started writing for Twinfinite in late 2019 and has reviewed many great games. While he loves a good shooter, his heart will always belong to JRPGs.

    Cameron Waldrop

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  • Best of 2023: Recap, Articles, Worksheets, and the Future

    Best of 2023: Recap, Articles, Worksheets, and the Future

    An honest review of 2023, featuring stand-out articles, practical worksheets, and a preview of the near future at The Emotion Machine.

    Another year is coming to an end. It’s time for my annual recap and roundup of best articles.

    To start, I’ll say this year was a good year for me overall. Not excellent, not bad – but “good.” It was more turbulent than past years and I certainly had low moments, but I adapted quickly and made a couple major habit changes that are going to payoff big in the future.

    Despite the chaos, I was remarkably consistent in my output this year. After a decade working on this site, creating new content is almost automatic for me. There’s no reason to assume I’ll be slowing down anytime soon, as new ideas and new projects are constantly coming to mind.

    The most successful endeavor this year has been my addition of self-improvement worksheets.

    Last year I pledged to make one new worksheet per month, so we already have a nice collection of 12 available going into the new year. These have received a lot of positive feedback so far and I’ll keep making new ones in 2024 (already have a long list of ideas).

    I’ll share more on my goals for 2024 soon, but let’s first take a look at the best self-improvement content that was published at The Emotion Machine in 2023…

    Best Articles/Worksheets of 2023

    Here’s a list of my best articles and worksheets from 2023 by category.

    Happiness and Mental Health

    A to Z Gratitude List (PDF)

    5 Senses Meditation (PDF)

    50+ Stress Relievers That Take 5 Minutes Or Less

    Fresh Starts: How to Use Landmark Dates to Spark a Change

    No Matter How Bad Things Get: If I Can Overcome This, I Can Overcome Anything

    Framing Depression as an Adaptive Signal, Not a Lifelong Disease

    The Drawing Effect: How Doodling Can Improve Your Thinking, Memory, and Emotions

    Habits and Motivation

    Strengths Worksheet (PDF)

    Goals Timeline (PDF)

    New Habit Worksheet (PDF)

    Renaissance Man: Why You Should Cultivate Multiple Interests

    Going Cold Turkey: Breaking Free from the Chains of Unhealthy Behaviors

    The Hidden Exhaustion of Mental Work: Why It Can Be Just as Tiring as Physical Labor

    Abandon Your TV: The Mental Benefits of Canceling Your Cable Subscription

    4 Japanese Concepts That Will Improve Your Well-Being

    Relationships and Friends

    Role Models Worksheet (PDF)

    The Big 5 Personality Traits: A Framework for Understanding Our Differences

    Conflict Resolution: 4 Principles Behind Constructive and Peaceful Negotiation

    Feeling Unloved: The Need to Be Appreciated

    Words Have Consequences: The Power of Language in Effective Communication

    How To Deal With Stupid People

    Thinking, Philosophy, and Wisdom

    Core Values Worksheet (PDF)

    Rewrite Negative Beliefs (PDF)

    Creative Self-Reflection Exercises (PDF)

    Explain Yourself: The Healthy Challenge of Describing Your Beliefs

    Mental Gymnastics: 7 Self-Sabotaging Effects of Over-Rationalization

    The Gish Gallop Effect: How Rapid Argumentation Distorts Perceptions and Beliefs

    Past, Present, and Future: Lessons from A Christmas Carol

    In-Yeon: Exploring “Past Lives” and Eternal Connections

    Near Future Plans

    I haven’t yet worked on my goals timeline, an annual tradition I do at the beginning of every year, but I’ll give you a quick peak at my main work goals in the near future:

    • Worksheets – As mentioned, I will definitely continue making one new worksheet each month. They are easy evergreen content and I’ve received compliments on them. The “Daily Routine” PDF will be coming out mid-January 2024.
    • Coaching – I’m bringing this back. Took most of the year off to focus on website but I think coaching is one of my better and more rewarding strengths. I already set up a calendar for easy scheduling and updated my coaching page.
    • Podcasting – I have too many thoughts per day that could be turned into valuable content but never materialize anywhere. “Everyone has great ideas, but not everyone acts on them.” Just pressing the record button and letting my mind riff is easy content that I think people will find interesting. I just need to suck it up and do it. I already have a Soundcloud (with a lot of old content) that I just need to reactivate.
    • Literary Agent – This is new territory for me. I’ve been working closely with an upcoming author friend and we’ve been making plans on finishing her first manuscript and sending pitches to publishers. She just finished the rough draft last week, but I’m going to be working with her more closely on editing, feedback, and reaching out to publishers once we have things tidied up. I still need to do more research but it could be a good avenue for me. It plays on multiple strengths: 1) Understanding the creative process, 2) Motivating people to actually finish their projects, 3) Finding people who have talent and potential, 4) Rooting for other people’s success. It feels like a natural outgrowth of a lot of my past work with creative people (at music venues, art galleries, and coaching various writers, artists, musicians, and filmmakers).
    • Articles – This isn’t changing. I’ll still be publishing at least one new or updated article every week. These make up the backbone of the website and I have no shortage of ideas and no reason to stop writing them anytime soon. If you want me to write about a specific topic, just use the contact page and let me know. I have many interests but it’s easier for me to cater to what you guys want. Feedback makes the site better.

    All in all I’m excited about 2024, and the ideas above feel like a perfect balance between “sticking with what works” vs. “trying new things.”

    Join Me In 2024

    If you find this work valuable to your life and want more, join me and support me going into the new year.

    My entire archive currently has over 850 articles covering a wide-range of subjects in psychology and self-improvement; and there’s plenty more to come in the future. I’m just getting started.

    To be honest with you, some of my earlier articles may not have aged as well as others. When you consistently produce content over 14 years, you inevitably release some less-than-stellar pieces. It’s a part of the process – having both “winning streaks” and “losing streaks” is a universal theme in life.

    Over the years, my beliefs, values, and interests have also shifted since I first started this site. There are things I wrote in the past that I don’t wholly agree with today. However, I choose to keep these old posts accessible because people often need different advice at various stages of their lives.

    I bet that’s not the hottest sales pitch you’ve ever heard. At heart, I consider myself a teacher more than a salesman, and that means being sincere, honest, and truthful before everything else. If you’re looking for “one trick” to magically fix your life, you’re in the wrong place. I don’t have those – never found them.

    All I can do is offer an array of tools, advice, and guidelines. You ultimately have to figure out what applies (or doesn’t) to your life. In truth, 80% of the content on this site may not interest you at all, but there’s that 20% that could be just what you need at this exact moment in your life.

    What I can promise you is that I’m one of the most dedicated writers on self-improvement currently going. I’ve seen thousands of other “self help” sites rise and fall over the years, but I keep chugging away no matter what.

    If you want to align with my commitment to happiness and well-being, then your first step is to join me.

    Better yet, get a Yearly subscription, for two simple reasons: 1) You’re committing yourself to a year of self-improvement, and 2) It’s cheaper. I’m honestly saying this from a self-improvement perspective and not a sales one.

    Let’s Go…







    You can cancel your membership at anytime. Please use the Contact form if you have any questions or comments.

    Steven Handel

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  • 10 Best Anime Waifus of 2023

    10 Best Anime Waifus of 2023

    2023 has been a year of massive fights and deep stories. Series have ended and premiered, but they all brought something new to the medium. However, a common thread between all of them is awesome female characters. These ladies lead the pack when it comes to anime, and all absolutely earn the label of waifu.

    Mikasa Ackerman (Attack on Titan)

    Image Source: MAPPA

    Mikasa has had to put up with a lot when it comes to being Eren’s protector. It all began in the early days when Eren was thought dead and instead emerged a Titan. She’s been through the highs and lows of the group of Scouts as they battled massive monsters and suffered betrayal.

    The end of Attack on Titan isn’t quite a happy one, but Mikasa fought tooth and nail for Eren and what she believed in, and that’s commendable.

    Annie Leonhart (Attack on Titan)

    Annie Leonhart
    Image Source: MAPPA

    Okay, not every waifu on this list has to be a hero. All that truly matters is that they are awesome, and Annie nails that completely. Her same villainous ways are why she became so helpful at the end of the series when it came time to foil the Rumbling and stop Eren.

    Her initial titan-form reveal certainly cemented her as a great villain, but the later reveal of her motivations definitely made her a more sentimental one. The finale earlier this year only proved that Annie is easily one of the toughest ladies in anime.

    Yor Forger (Spy X Family)

    Yor Forger
    Image Source: Wit Studio

    Versatility is also extremely important when it comes to waifu selection, and that’s where Yor Forger shines the most. Not only is she a renowned assassin, but she also easily handles all sorts of household duties, which is quite an undertaking.

    Yor is the best of both worlds, incredibly deadly but also the ideal waifu. Even if her place in the story is somewhat due to several misunderstandings and subterfuge, she still does her best.

    Maki Zen’in (Jujutsu Kaisen)

    Maki Zen'in
    Image Source: MAPPA

    When it comes to having a personality that is a very calm type of cool, anyone would likely think of Maki. This list is all about celebrating the best ladies in anime this year, and there is no mistaking that Maki deserves to be on this list.

    Her passionate determination to be the best Jujutsu Sorcerer isn’t diminished at all by the fact that she lacks the techniques held by her fellow students. Instead, it is the fact that she is normal and still trying so hard to fight curses that earns her a place on this list.

    Riho Tsukishima (The Café Terrace and Its Goddesses)

    Riho Tsukishima
    Image Source: Tezuka Productions

    It’s pretty difficult to pick one lady from the cast of The Café Terrace and Its Goddesses, but Riho definitely stands out from the very beginning. The first episode lays out the girls’ personalities and their early adversarial stance with Hayato.

    However, it is Riho’s brilliant planning that creates a few comedic scenarios to get Hayato to let them all stay. This particular bit of evil mastermind work makes her an easy favorite and the best waifu in the series.

    Sagiri Yamada Asaemon (Hell’s Paradise)

    Sagiri Yamada Asaemon
    Image Source: MAPPA

    Gabimaru was incredibly lucky to get Sagiri as his assigned executioner/escort. While the series makes it clear that many of the other “escorts” are just waiting for an excuse to kill their respective prisoner, Sagiri’s sense of duty prevents that.

    Her stern adherence to her orders does afford Gabimaru a little more freedom than the others, but he also gets the best bodyguard possible. Considering the hell that still awaits them on Shinsenkyō, Sagiri’s bravery establishes her as one of the most perfect waifus.

    Yuzuriha (Hell’s Paradise)

    Yuzuriha
    Image Source: MAPPA

    The deadly kunoichi in Hell’s Paradise also deserves her own recognition. There’s something incredibly cool about her selfish demeanor and unwillingness to do anything that doesn’t benefit her. Though there’s not much backstory given to explain her life, it’s obvious that Yuzuriha completed many solo jobs before accidentally landing herself among the convicts.

    However, it is also her moments of camaraderie and tenacity that lead to her being an excellent choice for this list. She’s also hiding some incredible abilities, as well.

    Mitsuri Kanroji (Demon Slayer)

    Mitsuri Kanroji
    Image Source: Ufotable

    As with most other Hashira, Kanroji was a huge mystery when first revealed at the Hashira gathering early in the series. Between her vibrant hair and exuberant attitude, it was tough to know what to make of her. She, like Rengoku, didn’t seem to match the usual Hashira attitude.

    This certainly changed when we finally got to see her in action in the Swordsmith Village Arc, and her awesome ribbon-like Nichirin sword made for the best fight scenes. As the story progresses, yet another amazing Hashira has been revealed, and her goofy personality is a nice offset for the seriousness.

    Shiori Goshiki (A Galaxy Next Door)

    Shiori Goshiki
    Image Source: Asahi Production

    Of the waifus on this list, Shiori is perhaps the most enigmatic of them all. The anime starts with a short scene showing her leaving a mysterious island home but doesn’t give much more until later.

    She arrives almost like a helpful spirit, coming into Ichiro’s life at the perfect time to provide her considerable talents. It is Shiori’s sweet personality and unexpected backstory that makes her so intriguing and, therefore, entirely worthy of this list.

    2B (Nier: Automata Ver1.1a)

    2B
    Image Source: A-1 Pictures

    As soon as this anime was announced, 2B was guaranteed for this list. As she had already garnered all sorts of love from her video game appearance, the swap to anime was no different. She is still the same cool character as ever, but now viewers get even more of her through the anime’s story.

    It only makes sense to label one of the most waifu-worthy video game characters as an equally terrific anime waifu. Plus, she only looks more awesome in action when getting to see it played out cinematically rather than in an action game.

    Make sure to check out our other end of year anime articles, from the best shonen anime and most underrated anime, to our picks for anime of the year. Oh, and of course, there’s our top husbandos, too — if you got this far, chances are this will be right up your alley!

    About the author

    Cameron Waldrop

    Cameron is a freelance writer for Twinfinite and regularly covers battle royales like Fortnite and Apex Legends. He started writing for Twinfinite in late 2019 and has reviewed many great games. While he loves a good shooter, his heart will always belong to JRPGs.

    Cameron Waldrop

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  • Filmfare Year-Ender 2023: 10 Fresh On-screen Pairings Of the Year

    Filmfare Year-Ender 2023: 10 Fresh On-screen Pairings Of the Year

    As 2023 comes to a close, we’re looking back at the year through movies. Hindi cinema witnessed some interesting developments. Between lavishly-mounted blockbusters, hard-hitting narratives and scene-stealing cameos, a lot has happened. Among the many highlights, we also saw several fresh pairings on screen. First-time collaborations are always exciting. Fans have been waiting to see many of these pairs for a while now. Ranbir Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor’s chemistry was anticipated weeks before their film Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar arrived in theatres. Shah Rukh Khan and Nayanthara’s pan-Indian team-up was quite the event as they got together for crowd-pleaser Jawan. Meanwhile, Tamannaah Bhatia and Vijay Varma showed off their crackling chemistry on screen after teasing their off-screen romance for weeks.

    As the year ends, here are some of the new on-screen pairings in movies:

    Ranbir Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor in Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar

    Well before Luv Ranjan’s 2023 rom-com, Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar got its title, fans caught a glimpse of Ranbir Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor filming for a song sequence. That was enough to kickstart a frenzy and raise the anticipation around their first onscreen collaboration. And the stars delivered. The film sees Ranbir play Mickey, a womaniser who helps couples break up in exchange for a small fortune. Shraddha plays Tinni, a chartered accountant who is equally emotionally unavailable as Mickey. Sparks fly when the two meet in Spain for a bachelor’s party. Say what you will about the uneven film but you cannot fault it for the lack of aforementioned sparks. The stars were at their best as they danced and romanced through the film’s run-time. 

    Shah Rukh Khan and Nayanthara in Jawan

    New On-screen Pairings 2023

    Atlee’s Jawan saw two powerful stars – Shah Rukh Khan and Nayanthara coming together for a sensational collaboration. The film opened to packed theatres, like most SRK-led titles and some of it had to do with the combined charm of the fresh on-screen pairing. Chaleya showcased their stunning chemistry as they matched steps together. They packed in a bunch of emotions that made audiences root for the on-screen couple. The makers also capitalised on their charm. The two had great witty banter going on. The cherry on top of the massy cake was that SRK and Nayanthara’s characters had an enemies-to-lovers arc in the film and let’s be honest, who can resist that?

    Tamannaah Bhatia and Vijay Varma in Lust Stories 2

    New On-screen Pairings 2023

    Tamannaah Bhatia and Vijay Varma surprised fans and paparazzi when they first started making appearances together. Their cosy snaps ahead of Lust Stories 2’s release sparked relationship rumours that were later confirmed by the pair. In their short directed by Sujoy Ghosh from the star-studded anthology, the two play exes with a turbulent past. Long suppressed feelings boil over as they give in to their desires despite the initial tension between them. Both Tamannaah and Vijay deliver excellent performances and their chemistry is palpable as expected. Their first stint left viewers wanting more.

    Ranbir Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna in Animal

    New On-screen Pairings 2023

    Animal released 25 days ago and fans still can’t help but talk about the film. One of the most anticipated aspects of the film was Ranbir Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna’s fresh pairing, another pan-Indian collaboration on the big screen. The Sandeep Reddy Vanga directorial sees them play Ranvijay and Geetanjali, respectively. From kissing in planes to exchanging vows in a remote mountain region, their budding romance oozes fiery chemistry. While their relationship takes a dark turn very quickly, their onscreen partnership meets expectations and more.

    Ranbir Kapoor and Triptii Dimri in Animal

    New On-screen Pairings 2023

    Ranbir and Rashmika’s isn’t the only pairing that caught fans’ attention. Triptii Dimri’s small yet impactful role in Animal became a major highlight of the film. While some of their scenes are mired in controversy, the two continue to make headlines for their intimate scenes. Their electrifying screen presence left audiences vying for more. Ranvijay and Zoya will be etched in the memories of movie-goers’ minds at the very least.

    Shah Rukh Khan and Taapsee Pannu in Dunki

    New On-screen Pairings 2023

    Shah Rukh Khan’s third film of 2023, the Rajkumar Hirani-directed Dunki wasn’t just a first for the actor-director duo. The film also saw the fresh pairing of SRK and Taapsee Pannu. Before the film’s release, Taapsee made mentions of being starstruck by the King of Romance. On the big screen, SRK’s Hardy looks endearingly smitten by Taapsee’s Manu. Their dynamic is as charming as it is heartfelt. The film’s song O Maahi perfectly encapsulates their onscreen romance and it works.

    Vicky Kaushal and Sara Ali Khan in Zara Hatke Zara Bachke 

    New On-screen Pairings 2023

    In Laxman Utekar’s small-town rom-com Zara Hatke Zara Bachke, Vicky Kaushal and Sara Ali Khan made for quite the dynamic duo. While the film opened to mixed reviews, it was easy to see why the makers went with the first-time collaborators. Both Vicky and Sara have a penchant for comedy that shines through even in their off-screen interactions and it translates on the screen. It’s safe to say that their easy chemistry was one of the highlights of the film. 

    Janhvi Kapoor and Varun Dhawan in Bawaal

    New On-screen Pairings 2023

    Nitesh Tiwari’s Bawaal saw Janhvi Kapoor and Varun Dhawan come together for an emotional roller-coaster ride. Their love story plays out across various exotic locations and the actors make for a good-looking pair. They are convincing as awkward newlyweds and as their characters get to know each other better, it only gets better. While the film leaves a lot to be desired, it’ll be interesting to see what Janhvi and Varun can cook up together if given another project in the future. 

    Ayushmann Khurrana and Ananya Panday in Dream Girl 2 

    New On-screen Pairings 2023

    Ayushmann Khurrana and Ananya Panday’s pairing in the sequel of Dream Girl was one of the more unique pairings of the year. The two came together for a delightful Mathura-set comedy. Ayushmann’s comedic skills and Ananya’s charm made for a great combination. While they didn’t have many scenes together, we can see why the makers ran with it.

    Salman Khan and Pooja Hegde in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan

    New On-screen Pairings 2023

    Some pairs surprised audiences. Salman Khan and Pooja Hegde’s fresh on-screen pairing in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan was one of the most-talked-about collaborations of the year. Once the film was released, fans couldn’t help but get fascinated by their chemistry.

    Filmfare

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  • 2023 Was The Year of Queer Cinema

    2023 Was The Year of Queer Cinema

    What a year for queer cinema! While we can all agree that Hollywood would be nothing and nowhere without the contributions of queer people, only in the past few decades have we seen queer stories in the mainstream. And as we see more complex representation on the big and small screen — narratives that aren’t set in the mid-80s if you know what I mean — it’s refreshing to be able to celebrate an abundance of queer perspectives.

    It’s been a long road to get here. And after Bros flopped in 2021, I feared that mainstream studios would pull funding from queer stories. But I feel like 2023 is the gayest year in cinema I can recall. While not all of them were hits (Dicks: The Musical will not be appearing on this list), and though the strike almost pushed back more titles than we could handle, it was still a formidable year for a diverse array of perspectives and an exciting variety in genres.

    Maybe the glut of streaming services has something to do with it — every streamer needs their token queer original content. But we’ve also seen some wickedly funny and beautifully heart-wrenching quiet titles grace the big screen this year. There’s something for everyone. And there are so many titles it’s a little hard to keep up.

    For a refresher course on the year’s best titles, and for recommendations of titles you might have missed, here are the best LGBTQIA+ movies and TV that we watched this year:

    Saltburn

    My favorite movie of the year is undoubtedly this messy, mad tale of Oliver Quick and his time at Saltburn. It is the darkest, most disturbing film I’ve ever seen. I still don’t quite know how to describe it. That queer yearning? That bathtub scene? but Talk about a cruel summer.

    Heartstopper, Season 2

    Season 2 of this Netflix triumph was even better, albeit sadder, than the first. It’s the sweetest thing you’ll ever watch, earnest and hopeful and addictive. It’s the show queer teens deserve, and I envy everyone in high school who gets to watch this in their adolescent years. Nevertheless, it’s my comfort show — despite the fact that it makes me cry every time.

    All of Us Strangers

    Andrew Scott, Paul Mescal, Jamie Bell. Need I say more? Their chemistry is unmatched, and too rare in queer romance dramas. More of this please!

    Passages

    The film for the polyamorous, non-monogamous era. Trust the French to make this messy queer film about a gay couple whose relationship is disrupted by a passionate affair with a woman.

    Eileen

    In this adaptation of Ottessa Moshfegh’s novel, Anne Hathaway plays a sexy psychiatrist at a prison who captivates the unassuming young secretary. The two begin a charged friendship as the plot soon goes dark. If you liked Carol, you’ll love this. This is Barbie for weird lesbians.

    Rustin

    The true, overlooked, story of civil rights activist Bayard Rustin is finally coming to light. The architect of 1963’s momentous March on Washington, Bayard Rustin was one of the greatest activists and organizers of his generation, working side by side with MLK and his contemporaries. But his queerness pushed him to the sidelines. Colman Domingo stuns in this biopic.

    The Other Two, Season 3

    I miss this show already. Say what you want about Cary and Brooke but they were so real. This satirical portrait of life in the industry sends chills down my spine. And Drew Tarver’s journey this season as a gay man looking for romance is hilarious, but also hits close to home for what it’s like dating in the city.

    Fellow Travelers

    It’s been Matt Bomer’s year — we’ll see him again on this list later, too. It’s an epic love story through time, following Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey from the Lavender scare of the McCarthy Era of the 1950s through the AIDS crisis of the 1980s.

    Red, White, & Royal Blue

    Based on the bestselling YA novel, this is the campy, queer rom-com we deserve. Enemies to lovers? Check. High-stakes romance? Check. Happy ending? Plenty of them. And the hotties at the forefront of this phenomenon are about to be household names. Taylor Zakhar Perez and Nicholas Galitzine, thank you for your service.

    Aristotle and Dante Discover the Universe

    A completely different take on YA coming of age romance, this gorgeous take on Benjamin Alire Sáenz’s novel is beautiful and poignant. With sharp cinematography and emotionally rich performances by actual teenagers, this feels like a Texas version of the European indie films I used to watch as a teen.

    Everything Now

    This new Netflix series takes on complex issues like Eating Disorders head on, but still somehow manages to create a charming and funny teen show. This is the next Sex Education, I’m calling it now

    Other Notable Queer Titles from 2023

    Maestro

    Sex Education, Season 4

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hG-QiKmlxsg

    Tore

    Femme

    Moonage Daydream

    Theater Camp

    Interview with the Vampire

    Cassandro

    LKC

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  • Best TV Shows 2023 | The Mary Sue

    Best TV Shows 2023 | The Mary Sue

    It’s the time of year when “Best Of” lists abound, but summing up an entire year of any medium is hard. Thankfully, 2023 was a great year in the world of TV and there’s no shortage of amazing choices to capture the best of what this year had to offer.

    For my top 10 shows of 2023, I tried mostly to stick to those that debuted this year, but there were two returning shows with outstanding seasons that I couldn’t ignore. Feel free to discuss the list and tell us your faves in the comments!

    10. The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, season 1 (AMC)

    Norman Reedus as Daryl Dixon and Louis Puech Scigliuzzi as Laurent in 'The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon'
    (AMC)

    I was a big fan of The Walking Dead, but once the spinoffs started rolling out, I became increasingly skeptical. I couldn’t get into Fear the Walking Dead, and Dead City left a lot to be desired, so I approached Daryl Dixon warily, but I was pleasantly surprised! Moving a fan-favorite character to another country makes the action feel fresh as it forces Daryl (Norman Reedus), a character who’s changed so much over the years, to think and behave differently as he interacts with new people, new factions, new types of walkers, and a new culture.

    It was also a wise choice to make the central relationship of the show between Daryl and a child in his care (the “Child Savior” thing was big on TV this year!). Daryl was always great with kids on The Walking Dead, despite his gruff, loner demeanor, so building a show around that makes sense. And as much as I loved the flagship show, Daryl Dixon feels a bit more mature in tone and themes than its predecessor. Daryl Dixon has allowed the TWD Universe to grow up and explore new emotional terrain without sacrificing the sweet, violent walker-y goodness we’ve come to love.

    9. Twisted Metal, season 1 (Peacock)

    Anthony Mackie (Black man with close-cropped hair, thin beard, wearing a yellow t-shirt under a green zippered vest) as John Doe Stephanie Beatriz (brown Latina with shoulder-length dark hair wearing a black scarf and grey shirt under a dark maroon blazer) as Quiet in a scene from Peacock's 'Twisted Metal.' they are standing side-by-side in a dark industrial hallway looking toward something that seems unpleasant.
    (Peacock)

    The first of two video game adaptations on this list, Twisted Metal shouldn’t work as a show. It’s based on a tournament-style game with no real narrative or character development to speak of where your only goal is to drive fast and shoot anyone in your way.

    The show, however, has managed to create characters we come to care about deeply, even as it holds onto many of the game’s more gonzo elements. John Doe (Anthony Mackie) and Quiet (Stephanie Beatriz) are a hilarious and heartbreaking team to follow through this bonkers post-apocalyptic world.

    And yes, there is a murderous clown named Sweet Tooth (played by professional wrestler Samoa Joe and voiced by Will Arnett) who drives a tricked-out ice cream truck, but even he gets a backstory that helps you understand his journey from being a child actor to a man built like a mountain who kills his way across the country while talking to his best friend, an empty paper bag.

    Twisted Metal was one of the biggest surprises of 2023, and with a second season on the way, I hope it stays on the road for a long, long time.

    8. Shrinking, season 1 (Apple TV+)

    Image of Lukita Maxwell as Alice and Jason Segel as Jimmy in a scene from Apple TV+'s 'Shrinking.' Alice is a mixed race white and Asian teenage girl with her hair in a bun wearing a lacy party dress. Jimmy is a middle-aged white man with short brown hair wearing a beige suit and tie. He has his arm around her shoulder in their home as she smiles and he looks hopeful.
    (Apple TV+)

    Shrinking is one of the best recent comedies that lean into dramatic situations and themes for laughs. It’s a heartbreaking and ultimately hopeful show about nearly drowning in grief until you learn how to navigate the waves and make it to shore.

    Shrinking has an amazing cast led by Jason Segel, Harrison Ford, and Jessica Williams, and like many of the other shows on this list, it succeeds because of its attention to character. Even the more outlandish characters are fully fleshed-out, relatable people. In addition to the main theme of grief, Shrinking deftly deals with other mental health issues—appropriate for a show about therapists.

    Thankfully, we have a second season of Shrinking to look forward to on Apple TV+, and apparently there is a three-season story arc planned.

    7. The Great, season 3 (Hulu)

    Image of Nicholas Hoult as Peter and Elle Fanning as Catherine in a scene from Hulu's 'The Great.' Peter is a white man with short, dark hair wearing a black fur coat. Catherine is a white woman with blonde hair wearing a brown and white fur hat and a matching fur coat. They are sitting outside in the snow in front of trees, and Catherine is resting her head on Peter's shoulder as they both look out into the distance.
    (Hulu)

    The Great certainly wasn’t the only wonderful show to have an awesome final season this year (shout-out to Succession and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, two amazing shows that ended after four seasons), but it’s on my best of 2023 list because because of what a unique show it was.

    As I’ve written previously, an anachronistic comedy about Czarist Russia based on a stage play shouldn’t have worked. Yet it did, thanks to brilliant writing (and source material) from creator Tony McNamara and inspired performances from a stellar cast led by Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult. The show took exciting risks in its execution throughout its run, with its final season being the riskiest of all. (The Great and Succession have a major death halfway through the final season in common.)

    Though losing The Great this year was sad, it went out on a beautiful high note. I’ll be watching Catherine dancing to AC/DC on a loop basically forever. That was as perfect a final scene as a show could have.

    6. Lessons in Chemistry (Apple TV+)

    Image of Lewis Pullman as Calvin and Brie Larson as Elizabeth in a scene from 'Lessons in Chemistry' on Apple TV+. Calvin is a white man with short brown hair wearing a white lab coat. Elizabeth is a white woman with shoulder-length blonde hair wearing a white lab coat. They are both standing at a counter in a chemistry lab looking at each other as Calvin adjusts a fluid bag on a stand.
    (Apple TV+)

    Lessons in Chemistry, based on the novel by Bonnie Garmus and created for television by Lee Eisenberg, is a beautiful and relevant limited series that illuminates the varied ways in which women have to fight harder to excel, as well as the importance of human connection.

    Brie Larson, who’s made a career out of playing women who will only grace you with a smile if you f—ing earn it, is perfect as Elizabeth Zott, a chemist who ends up hosting a popular cooking show in the 1960s, empowering women by teaching them the science of cooking and encouraging them to pursue their greatest aspirations.

    Meanwhile, the show’s relationships, from Elizabeth’s romantic relationship with Calvin (Lewis Pullman), her friendship with her neighbor Harriet (Aja Naomi King), to her relationship with her daughter Mad (Alice Halsey), all add up to create Elizabeth’s success. Every character’s success or failure is determined by the relationships in their lives—the “chemistry” between people, if you will. And that’s an important and beautiful message these days.

    5. Poker Face, season 1 (Peacock)

    Natasha Lyonne and Benjamin Bratt in Poker Face
    (Peacock)

    Peacock took some big swings this year and brought us one of the best and most creative murder mystery shows ever. Rian Johnson’s Poker Face finally gave us the Natasha Lyonne-being-Columbo series we’ve been clamoring for. Lyonne plays Charlie, a woman with a unique superpower. She’s basically a human lie detector, and while she can’t read your mind, she knows when you’re being less-than-truthful and can call “bulls—t” with 100% accuracy.

    This ability gets her in a lot of trouble, but it also puts her in a position to help a lot of people. While there’s a central storyline of Charlie trying to escape people trying to kill her, the show also operates as a case-of-the-week series. Every episode starts with its own murder, and then once we see the murder happen, we go back and see all the events from Charlie’s point of view, following her as she ends up stumbling onto the crime and helping to solve it.

    The writing and direction are flawless, Natasha Lyonne gives a fascinating performance as Charlie, and the whole thing is such a breath of fresh air in the current TV landscape. Thankfully, Peacock ordered a second season shortly after the season 1 finale.

    4. A Murder at the End of the World, season 1 (FX / Hulu)

    Emma Corrin as Darby Hart in 'A Murder at the End of the World'
    (FX)

    One of the year’s best shows didn’t premiere until last month, but it’s already compelling as hell. If you love Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij because of The OA or their films The Sound of My Voice and The East, their new show A Murder at the End of the World will be right up your alley.

    Emma Corrin plays Darby Hart, a true-crime author and amateur sleuth/hacker who’s invited to a mysterious conference of brilliant minds by tech billionaire Andy Ronson (Clive Owen), who happens to be married to Darby’s hacker idol, Lee Andersen (Brit Marling). As the title suggests, there’s murder at the end of the world, which refers to the remote location of the retreat rather than an apocalyptic premise. However, the apocalypse is evoked, as the devastating effects of climate change (and what can be done about them) are discussed often.

    Marling and Batmanglij are excellent at making strange, esoteric worlds feel lived-in and thoroughly human, and Emma Corrin is giving a terrific, compelling performance. Whether you’re into murder mysteries, hacker culture, or just good drama with a unique love story at its center, A Murder at the End of the World will scratch all those itches.

    3. Beef, season 1 (Netflix)

    An Asian woman and man lean out the window of their respective cars with vengeful looks on their faces.
    (Netflix)

    Beef, starring Steven Yeun and Ali Wong, was one of 2023’s most fascinating and unique offerings. It gave us two nuanced, screwed-up characters in Danny Cho and Amy Lau who, in spite of their flaws and their disproportionate obsession with taking each other down, manage to remain completely relatable.

    As TMS‘ Madeline Carpou wrote, what sets Beef apart isn’t just the frenzied battle between the show’s two leads, but its incisive commentary on class. Yes, these characters are flawed, but in addition to the social and cultural aspects of their lives (Beef deals with gender, being Asian in the U.S, the intersectionality of being both Asian and Christian), what impacts their lives—and their outsized response to road rage—the most are their individual relationships to money, class, and status.

    While it’s unclear whether Beef will receive a second season, season 1 is absolutely worth a binge-watch if you haven’t yet had the pleasure.

    2. The Bear, season 2 (FX / Hulu)

    A Black woman with a worried look on her face reacts to a conversation she is having.
    (FX)

    The Bear‘s first season was a huge success in 2022, but this year’s second season elevated it into the stratosphere creatively and culturally. The first season primarily stuck with its protagonist, Carmy (Jeremy Allen White), with the rest of the superb cast of characters serving the central story of “whether he can save the family restaurant.” The Bear‘s second season wisely incorporated deeper journeys for every character—Ayo Edebiri’s Sydney and Ebon Moss-Bachrach’s Richie, among them—allowing the success or failure of their new dining enterprise to be a true group effort.

    What’s wonderful about this show is that it finds the vulnerability, love, and kindness in even the most closed-off and hard-edged characters. Every single person on this show is emotionally damaged in some way, and yet season 2 allowed them to grow, evolve, and find their connections to each other in newer, healthier ways. They all still have plenty of work to do, but I am completely invested in watching every single one of them do that work.

    We can’t wait for season 3 of The Bear!

    1. The Last of Us, season 1 (HBO)

    Bella Ramsey and Pedro Pascal together as Ellie and Joel in The Last of Us
    (HBO)

    The Last of Us debuted on HBO aaaaall the way back in January, which is basically forever ago in TV time. It’s almost hard to imagine that before this year, there was a world in which Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey didn’t exist as Joel Miller and Ellie Williams; a world where Nick Offerman and Murray Bartlett didn’t definitively embody Bill and Frank in a gorgeous episode written by Craig Mazin and directed by Peter Hoar; a world where Tess (played with perfect bi wife energy by Anna Torv) wasn’t one of the most awesome and important characters in TLOU; and where Henry’s little brother Sam (played beautifully by Keivon Woodard, please protect this child at all costs) wasn’t always deaf.

    Thankfully, we now live in a world where all these things are true. When TLOU game creator Neil Druckmann teamed up with co-creator and showrunner Mazin, they created not only a beautiful TV adaptation of a beloved video game, but a brilliant and beautiful show in its own right.

    Season 2 doesn’t start filming until February 2024, which means we’ll likely see it in 2025. Still, that means you have plenty of time to watch (or re-watch) The Last of Us‘ nine-episode first season and rejoice with us as it celebrates its 24 nominations at this year’s Emmy Awards.

    What shows were your faves this year?

    (featured image: Peacock / FX / Hulu / The Mary Sue)

    Have a tip we should know? [email protected]

    Teresa Jusino

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  • Austin Pets Alive! | Special Holiday Announcement from Dr. Jefferson

    Austin Pets Alive! | Special Holiday Announcement from Dr. Jefferson

    Zero is the kind of young, handsome, playful dog who is quickly adopted in most shelters. He has a smile that’ll make YOU smile, too.

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  • Top 10 Best Anime Husbandos of 2023, Ranked

    Top 10 Best Anime Husbandos of 2023, Ranked

    Look, you saw what we saw this year. 2023 was practically raining men capable of making fans’ legs go weak. And yet, as is always the case, some stood out more than others, which is why they made our list of the top 10 best anime Husbandos of 2023.

    Before proceeding, it’s worth noting that only one Husbando has been selected from each show to make sure Jujutsu Kaisen doesn’t dominate the entire dang list. Likewise, Levi of Attack on Titan has been left out of the competition on the grounds that the poor man needs to be left alone to process and heal following the proverbial and literal hell he went through.

    Feel free to defend your scorned and/or overlooked favorite in the comments down below.

    10. Rentaro Aijou (100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You)

    Image Credit: Bibury Animation Studios

    While the name and premise of the anime he’s from might be ridiculous, Rintaro Aijou of The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You fame handily nabbed a slot among the best Husbandos of 2023 in no time flat.

    Caring, considerate, and bursting with affection for every member of his burgeoning love hecatontagon, this young man clears the exceptionally low bar of male standards with flying colors. When faced with the dilemma of ensuring others love him and feel loved or else everyone involved dies, he rises to the occasion and lays bare his capacity for showing affection for others; all while being respectful and patient toward his many girlfriends and their quirks.

    He’s not only the ideal boyfriend, but also a decent human being capable of making others feel seen and heard. Honestly, it’d be weird if he didn’t have so many girls seeking his affection.

    9. Aqua (Oshi no Ko)

    Aqua Looking Into Camera While Eye is Glowing Blue in Oshi no Ko
    Image Credit: Doga Kobo

    Look, we get it: Not everyone is down for guys with baggage, and Oshi no Ko‘s Aqua has a whole separate lifetime’s worth of the stuff. 

    For those willing to look past it though, there’s a genuinely good guy hidden under all that trauma. His dedication to his friends and family is unmatched, to the point that you’re just as likely to see him plotting and planning his way around threats as you are to see him nailing a glow stick-waving routine at his sister and friend’s idol performance. He’s not afraid to embarrass himself to lift you up, and his drive to succeed ensures you won’t be stuck with some pretty dead weight.

    If not for his undeniable need for therapy, he’d definitely be higher up on this list, but he’s an exemplary Husbando regardless.

    8. Heracles (Record of Ragnarok)

    Heracles Smirking at Camera in Record of Ragnarok (Top 10 Best Anime Husbandos of 2023, Ranked)
    Image Credit: Yumeta Company

    While he might embody the male power fantasy more than the ideal female gaze-ee, Heracles puts other men to shame both in Record of Ragnarok and Beyond.

    A lover at heart, he sees his strength less as a means to inflict violence and more so a way to protect others. He’ll do his darndest to make sure those who love peace can live good lives, and that those who don’t can find someone willing to talk through their issues until they see a better path.

    Admittedly, his obstinance in joining the humans against the gods a la Buddha’s strategy shows some clear issues with knowing when to disobey authority for the greater good. But if that’s his biggest flaw, it’s hard not to see why he outdoes so many others as a model Husbando.

    7. Haida (Aggretsuko)

    Haida Smiling at Camera With Retsuko in Background in Aggretsuko
    Image Credit: Fanworks and Sanrio

    You know you’ve found a man worth keeping when he’s willing to support you through thick and thin, and no matter the life path you choose. Of the best Husbandos of 2023, few embody this mindset like Haida from Aggretsuko.

    Though he might falter in terms of his finances and responsibilities, he’s always right behind Aggretsuko cheering her on whether she’s intent on becoming an idol or determined to inspire others through politics. He’s right there with her when she’s nervous about meeting her parents, and doesn’t mind humiliating himself with an impromptu karaoke session to snap her out of a funk.

    He’s A-grade boyfriend and Husbando material, and even non-furries will find it hard to contest his well-earned standing among the other men on this list.

    6. Brando (Pluto)

    Brando Greeting Gesicht in Pluto (Top 10 Best Anime Husbandos of 2023, Ranked)
    Image Credit: Studio M2

    There are many strapping robotic men in the anime adaptation of Pluto, but few embody the true heart of a Husbando like Brando.

    An unbeatable tournament champion by day and a loving husband and father by night, he’s the full package in terms of hunky anime fellas. Sure, his heart might be mechanical, but his soul finds endless joy in being able to make those around him and those who will come after him happy.

    And, as an added bonus, he’s got all of the Perks that come with finding a man who’s past the Wilder days of his life. Being with him would entail low key days at an amusement park and relaxing nights chatting over dinner. We don’t know about you, but that sounds downright delightful.

    5. Thorfinn (Vinland Saga)

    Thorfinn Facing Camera After Cutting Hair and Shaving in Vinland Saga
    Image Credit: MAPPA

    The Thorfinn seen in Vinland Saga Season 2 is not only a far better version of the character, but also one of the best anime Husbandos in recent memory.

    Calm and practical but with a clear drive to help others, he’s not afraid to risk life and limb if it means keeping those he loves safe. Though he has a fair few demon’s haunting him at all times, he pushes ever onward toward a better version of himself; and, more importantly, becoming a person who can help others find a better way through life.

    It’s the kind of emotional glow up you love to see, and he’s league’s ahead of his contemporaries as a result. And let’s not pretend it isn’t appealing to think he’s handy around a farmstead.

    4. Akira (Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead)

    Akira Smushing Face Against Glass Case Around watch in Zom 100 (Top 10 Best Anime Husbandos of 2023, Ranked)
    Image Credit: Bug Films

    Admittedly, Akira is far from the most interesting Husbando on this list.

    A former abused wage slave turned devil-may-care survivor of the Zombie apocalypse in Zom 100, he only thinks things out a step or two ahead. Any decision he makes is fueled by his desires, and he’s prone to making dumb mistakes because he charged headlong into a problem assuming everything would work out fine.

    He’s a bit of a mess, and the fact that he wasn’t killed outright by the hostile world around him is a miracle. But honestly, that’s kind of his appeal. Despite everything that could go wrong, he still has hope and faith in the world because he knows there’s something far scarier than a zombie apocalypse. He has an innate faith that things will get better, and that there’s meaning in going after ehat you cared about.

    If you’ve ever felt stuck and burnt out in your career, this is almost assured to resonate with you, and we could hardly judge you for sprinting into his former-rugby star arms to be carried off on a soul-enriching vacation.

    3. Vash (Trigun Stampede)

    Vash Aiming Gun in Trigun Stampede
    Image Credit: studio Orange

    Trigun Stampede brings a new feel to the classic series, and its take on Vash definitely elicits a different kind of thirst.

    Whereas the original Humanoid Typhoon gave off the energy of a golden retriever who has only just stopped eating rocks, this new Vash shares the same energy as a worn Shiba Inu. He’s been kicked around by the world a few times, but that isn’t going to shake his faith and loyalty toward humanity. 

    And yet, despite this darker tone to his personality, he’s still the multifaceted goofball capable of cracking jokes one minute and nailing an impossible shot with his pistol the next.

    Paired with his simple yet stylish drip, all of this comes together to create the saddest E-Boy you ever did want to take out to brunch, and you wouldn’t even mind that he needs you to find an incredibly overpriced cruelty-free joint that’ll allow him to eat guilt free.

    2. Gabimaru (Jigokuraku: Hell’s Paradise)

    Gabimaru Cloaked in Flame in Hell's Paradise (Top 10 Best Anime Husbandos of 2023, Ranked)
    Image Credit: MAPPA

    Gabimaru the Hollow of Hell’s Paradise might come off like a soulless killing machine, but beneath his cold exterior lies one of the most dedicated Husbandos of the 2023 batch.

    Subconsciously dedicated to his partner in a way that prevents him from being harmed, he has his priorities straight and is dead-set on keeping things that way. Even if the leader of a country asks the impossible of him, he’ll carry out the mission in order to get back to his partner and leave the woes of his work behind him.

    Is there the chance that he’ll overdue it and forget all about you? Undeniably. But to have that stability, as well as the raw strength that he utilizes to carry out his missions, would be a godsend whether you’re lazing around the house or need a durable partner for some more passionate activities.

    1. Nanami (Jujutsu Kaisen)

    Nanami Smiling While Imagining Walking Along the Shoreline in Jujutsu Kaisen
    Image Credit: MAPPA

    Before you bombard the comments section with comments, let me be clear: Gojo, Geto, Todo, and even “Worst Dad Ever” contender Toji could have arguably taken this slot. And yet, when it comes down to it, Nanami is the best anime Husbando of 2023.

    Despite his grumpy and stiff facade, this punctual Jujutsu Sorcerer does what he does because he cares about people. He wants strangers to be safe, and he wants to make sure his protégé have the room they need to get better and hold their own. He values time that can be spent on leisure, and makes sure to never put work before happiness – unless someone hurt those he cares about, in which case he’s happy to punch in for some overtime beatdowns.

    And those outfits! It’s honestly like he saw the rest of the cast and went “Well, someone should class themselves up”. No matter the occasion, he’s dressed his best and has you begging to see what’s underneath. 

    But then, you’d be thrilled just to see him smile and let down his guard a little, whether that’s by walking along the shoreline or engaging in more intellectually stimulating conversation.

    He’s one of, if not the, best Husbandos out there, and that remains true even when stacked up against the thirst traps that are the male cast of Jujutsu Kaisen. And as far as we’re concerned, he’s the best Husbando of the year.

    About the author

    Keenan McCall

    Keenan has been a nerd from an early age, watching anime and playing games for as long as I can remember. Since obtaining a bachelor’s degree in journalism back in 2017, he has written thousands of articles covering gaming, animation, and entertainment topics galore.

    Keenan McCall

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  • Anthropologie’s Cyber Monday Sale Incudes Over 300 Bougie Candles For 30% Off

    Anthropologie’s Cyber Monday Sale Incudes Over 300 Bougie Candles For 30% Off

    All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.

    Anthropologie is one of the brands we aspire to shop at 24/7 once we’ve become a full-grown adults with a fancy job title, a cozy home, and maybe a dog or two. Everything is just so chic and beautifully made, which is great, but unfortunately typically out of budget. That’s why Anthropologie’s Cyber Monday sale is something we’ve been dying to shop all year. 

    Get your wallet ready ASAP because Anthropologie has already kicked off its Black Friday sale early! Almost everything on Anthro’s website is discounted for up to 50 percent off (yes, even the entire brand-new and perfectly curated holiday gift shop).

    In order to access the early deals, you’ll need to be an Anthropologie VIP loyalty member. I literally just went through the process of signing up and it was so easy, free, and took less than four minutes. Plus, as a new member, I received a $20 credit to help kick off my holiday shopping (score!).

    Now that we’ve shared all the major deets with you, it’s time to help you pick out the best styles to shop from Anthropologie’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. Keep scrolling for the items we’re adding to our cart, and suggest you do, too.

    Snag this super soft pull-over sweater for 50 percent off today. It’s available sizes XXS through XL.

    Anthropologie Cocoon Blazer
    Anthropologie

    This padded blazer will add the perfect layer over top oversized sweaters this winter. It even has front lap pockets.

    STYLECASTER | Anthropologie Black Friday Sale
    Courtesy of Anthropologie.

    If you’ve ever wondered what paradise smells like, it’s this limited-time holiday candle. Each year, Anthro releases the same fragrance but in new and adorable packaging. The sweet smell of milk and cookies is just what we want during the holiday season, although you can also pick from Hot Buttered Rum and Mulled Wine.

    Courtesy of Anthropologie.

    Hold up, we found the dress you’re about to wear to every one of your holiday events. It might not be the traditional velvet dress, but that’s why we love it. The dress gives the illusion of a two-piece set without all of the fuss of adjusting it all night.

    Courtesy of Maeve.

    Stay warm with this chunky sweater. Choose from six different color options, and style it with slacks or baggy jeans.

    Courtesy of Anthropologie.

    When temperatures drop, you might need to add a scarf to every outfit in order to spend any time outside. Luckily, Anthro has so many cute options on sale like this oversized plaid scarf.

    Courtesy of Anthropologie.

    Whether you’re shopping for yourself or someone close to you, an initial necklace is a thoughtful, personalized gift. This heart charm necklace looks beautiful when worn on its own or layered with other strands.

    STYLECASTER | Anthropologie Black Friday Sale
    Courtesy of Melie Bianco.

    If you love Bottega Veneta but don’t love the price tag, you’ll be excited to hear that Anthro has so many similar bag options. This large woven bag is the alternate option of my dreams. 

     

    Katie Decker-Jacoby

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  • Lost Frequencies Prepares A Grand Finale to The Year with ‘All Stand Together’ LP | Your EDM

    Lost Frequencies Prepares A Grand Finale to The Year with ‘All Stand Together’ LP | Your EDM

    As the year draws to a close, Belgian sensation Lost Frequencies, renowned for his unique blend as a producer, DJ, and live performer, is gearing up for a spectacular finale. November 10th marks a significant date in the music industry as Lost Frequencies announces the release of his third artist album, ‘All Stand Together’.

    Lost Frequencies, a name that has become synonymous with musical innovation, has experienced a monumental year. His journey over the past several years has been nothing short of extraordinary, culminating in sold-out arenas on his Lost Frequencies Live tour. His presence has graced every major festival stage, from the electrifying crowds of Tomorrowland to the vibrant scenes of Lollapalooza and Creamfields. Adding to his accolades, he has also been nominated for a Brit Award for ‘Best International Song’. Yet, with the upcoming release of ‘All Stand Together’, it seems the best is still to come.

    ‘All Stand Together’ is more than just an album; it’s a musical odyssey. Lost Frequencies collaborates with a mix of familiar and fresh talents, taking listeners on a journey that melds feel-good electronics with pop joy. The album features 11 sensational tracks, including the international hit ‘Where Are You Now’ with Calum Scott, the recent solo release ‘The Feeling’, and a title track destined to captivate audiences. Collaborations with artists like Netsky, James Arthur, and Tom Gregory further enrich the album, showcasing the diverse musical landscape that Lost Frequencies navigates with ease.

    This album is a testament to Lost Frequencies’ musical evolution. It traverses various genres, from uplifting house and tropical vibes to folk influences, acoustic instrumentals, and deep vocal performances, culminating in dancefloor-ready anthems. ‘All Stand Together’ is poised to be Lost Frequencies’ most signature artist album to date, marking a pivotal point in his career.

    Peter Berry

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  • Hungary’s Capital City of Budapest Celebrates its 150th Anniversary

    Hungary’s Capital City of Budapest Celebrates its 150th Anniversary

    The Spice of Europe celebrates its anniversary with signature cakes, tastings, spa experiences, lion replicas, and more


    MIAMI, October 30, 2023 (Newswire.com)
    –
    Visit Hungary is excited to announce Budapest’s 150th-anniversary celebration. Often referred to as the Spice of Europe, Budapest, Hungary’s capital city, honors this milestone with culinary, music, and cultural festivals ranging from wine and gastronomy to music and culture. Drawing attention to the historic unification of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, in 1873, the anniversary pays tribute to its predecessors and one of the fastest-developing metropolises in Europe. Today, the city is home to impressive market halls, invigorating thermal baths, lavish literary cafés, grand architecture, and bustling nightlife.

    “We invite you to join us in this historic celebration of one of the world’s most iconic cities, Budapest. Its diversity, energy, and creative vibes, exemplify Hungary’s offering to locals and tourists alike,” said Zsuzsa Szégner, International Relations Director, Visit Hungary.

    Culinary Delights

    Cakes of the Year: Dessert lovers can enjoy this year’s winning cakes created to honor the occasion throughout more than 100 locales in Budapest. Winning cakes include Spicces Füge Respektus, which contains fig jelly and Tokaji Aszú, the world-famous wine of Hungary, and Kikelet cake, designed around a drop of black tea, with blueberries and a hint of lavender, completed by a vanilla white chocolate mousse and an almond and lemon sponge cake.

    Tokaji Aszú Tasting: Considered the world’s oldest sweet wine, Tokaji Aszu is the best way to celebrate Budapest. Named after the town of Tokaj and the Hungarian word “aszu,” which means “dry,” visitors can participate in a tasting cruise experience along the Danube River and tasting tours throughout the city and nearby Etyek. 

    Culture Lovers

    Grand Novel Budapest: In November 2023, a Budapest-centric book, comprising 23 stories by 23 Hungarian authors, will debut as a literary tribute to the city’s anniversary.

    Music meets Spa: Join the festivities by participating in Sparty, the world-famous party series. The city is home to more than a hundred geothermal springs, and each year from February to December, locals and visitors participate in this weekly event at the largest medicinal bath in Europe, located in the City Park area. 

    Renowned Architecture

    Chain Bridge Reopens: Once connecting the cities of Buda and Pest, central to the theme of this year’s anniversary, the Chain Bridge officially reopened in August 2023. The picturesque historic stone bridge straddles the Danube between Széchenyi Square in Pest, and Clark Ádám Square in Buda. Offering some of the city’s most stunning views, the bridge is connected by the grandiose Parliament in Pest, while Castle Hill towers at the Buda end.

    The Lions of Budapest: Feline lovers will enjoy the presence of lions throughout Budapest. Portrayed in the coat of arms, and as guards of the iconic Chain Bridge, replicas of the guarding lions will be placed at iconic locations throughout the city creatively, decorated by local artists. 

    Source: Visit Hungary

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  • Election 2023: Rotorua candidates respond to youth crime issues in the CBD – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

    Election 2023: Rotorua candidates respond to youth crime issues in the CBD – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

    A 13-year-old girl was beaten at a Rotorua bus stop outside the library. Photo / Supplied

    National will give police ‘’permission’’ to clean up Rotorua after two attacks on teenage girls – but Labour says it is not possible to “arrest our way out of this’’ and believes the causes of crime need to be addressed.

    Rotorua MP Todd McClay and Labour rival Ben Sandford spoke out after the two attacks in the CBD in the past two weeks.

    ACT Rotorua electorate candidate Marten Rozeboom believed a greater police presence would help reduce crime. Meanwhile, Te Pāti Māori Party candidate Merepeka Raukawa-Tait believed the community must do more than “express horror” and instead take action.

    USDA Certified Organic Tinctures and salves

    The comments come after a 13-year-old was left bloodied at an Arawa St bus stop after being punched by a stranger on Tuesday last week and a 15-year-old collapsed after being beaten on Monday on Haupapa St.

    Advertisement

    Advertise with NZME.

    Police have referred three young people to Youth Aid and say they are maintaining an increased presence in the area where the attacks happened, near the Rotorua Library.

    Mayor Tania Tapsell said the council was “determined to turn this around” and an inner city community safety hub would be established in about two months.

    National's MP for Rotorua, Todd McClay. Photo / Andrew Warner
    National’s MP for Rotorua, Todd McClay. Photo / Andrew Warner

    McClay told the Rotorua Daily Post Weekend it was “horrifying” and “extremely sad for Rotorua” for violent crime to be happening in the CBD.

    He criticised the …

    Original Author Link click here to read complete story..

    MMP News Author

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  • Independence Day 2023: Deconstructing the dominance of desi VFX in Hollywood movies

    Independence Day 2023: Deconstructing the dominance of desi VFX in Hollywood movies

    When we think of big-budget, VFX-heavy Hollywood films, we almost never think of their cutting-edge, jaw-dropping visuals being curated in a studio somewhere in Mumbai’s Malad or Hyderbad’s Banjara Hills. And yet, it is a well-known fact that several fantasy, sci-fi and superhero blockbusters owe a lot to Indian VFX artistes. 

    As we spotlight desi VFX this Independence Day, here’s a look at some of the biggest movies that proved just how essential Indian VFX is to the entertainment industry on a global scale. Read on:

    CGI tigers burning bright

    Animals and creatures have notoriously been hard to create. However, the award-winning 2013 film Life of Pi did not have that problem. The Ang Lee film, based on Yann Martel’s classic novel, took audiences on a breathtaking journey of survival and self-discovery as the titular Pi (played by Suraj Sharma) was cast away in the ocean after a tragic shipwreck. The film brought the text to life in a remarkable visual masterpiece. Indian VFX company Rhythm & Hues, now Reliance MediaWorks, created the realistic Bengal tiger, Richard Parker. The studio also worked on the awe-inspiring reflective ocean shot and the mesmerising bioluminescent scenes.

    Another film that had realistic animals created by Indian VFX Studios is Jon Favreau’s 2016 live-action adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s classic, The Jungle Book. This one is a particularly tricky film to make since it has an all-animal cast save for Neel Sethi, the young actor who played Mowgli. The film’s vibrant jungles and realistic animals were crafted by Technicolor’s Moving Picture Company (MPC). It’s quite the feat to pull off.

    Truly Marvel-ous!

    Make in India VFX

    It is a shame that Indian names don’t get instantly associated with superhero movies because of the sheer number of artists employed to complete these movies under tight deadlines. Who can forget the global movie event that was Avengers: Endgame? The Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Infinity saga got a satisfying conclusion and it demanded a truckload of groundbreaking VFX work. Luckily for Marvel, Indian VFX studios like Digital Domain India and Framestore were up for the challenge. They reportedly contributed to the film’s unforgettable battle scenes and time-travel sequences. It was a scene straight out of the comic books, one that fans had been manifesting for a very long time. 

    The VFX work for Chris Hemsworth’s Thor: The Dark World was done by Prana Studios in Mumbai. The film had multiple sequences set between Earth and Thor’s home planet, Asgard. It truly takes a village to pull that off. In this case, a village full of Indian professionals working at the highest efficiency levels.

    Space craft

    Make in India VFX

    VFX companies have long supported the visions of not just obscure films but Oscar-winning filmmakers, including Christopher Nolan. The visual effects in the sci-fi epic Interstellar were handled by India-listed company Double Negative (DNEG), one of the most acclaimed VFX houses in the world. The film went on to win the Academy Award for Visual Effects. Interstellar has some of the most impressive visuals that combine art and science for the perfect movie experience. The film features scenes set in space, and Nolan goes big with his vision. The visual effects of the film were carried out within a year by a workforce of 300 people. Imagine that.  

    Another example is Alfonso Cuarón’s mind-bending 2013 space thriller Gravity. The film is a defining moment in cinema, and Indian VFX studio Prime Focus played a pivotal role in creating the awe-inspiring visuals of Earth seen from space, the lifelike space station and the intense zero-gravity sequences. 

    Quizzing aloud

    By now, it’s pretty common to hear that Indian studios were involved in everything from James Cameron’s historic film Avatar to the highly addictive fantasy series Game of Thrones. Khaleesi’s Dragons? Indian VFX. So why are Indian movies still suffering from the bad CGI curse? From the outlandish crocodile in Mohenjo Daro to the weird CG horses in Tanhaji and the strange derivative creatures in Adipurush, we’ve seen some shoddy VFX work. These have sparked a backlash from fans, discouraging production houses even further. There are multiple reasons for this. With studios bagging projects in the West, Indian movies haven’t been getting their due attention. Bollywood movies tend to allot lower budgets for visual effects. This leaves artistes to seek work overseas, which they get very easily due to the high volume of demand. At the same time, the list of movies that employ VFX is very small. Between Hrithik Roshan’s Krrish and Shah Rukh Khan’s Ra.One and India’s inventive attempts at superhero franchises and films like Dhoom 3, there are very few examples to cite.

    Make in India VFX

    Rays of hope

    Things are changing with films like Brahmastra. The ambitious Ayan Mukerji project, starring Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, reportedly had more VFX shots than most Marvel films. Then, we had the history-making RRR, directed by SS Rajamouli. The Ram Charan and Jr. NTR-starrer was full of VFX shots, and they were all done to perfection. The ace director had also delivered Baahubali a few years ago, another triumph in visuals. These films are often cited as some of the best in terms of visual splendour. Meanwhile, Nag Ashwin’s upcoming sci-fi film Kalki 2898 AD, starring Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan and others, is poised to display fresh marvels of the Indian VFX scene. The promotional material of the film is good enough to draw comparisons with Dennis Villeneuve’s Dune films. As technology continues to evolve, the magic of Indian VFX will undoubtedly enhance the cinematic experience, setting the stage for even more breathtaking spectacles to grace the silver screen in the future. 

    SEE ALSO: Made In India: Hollywood films shot in the land of diversity

    Filmfare

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  • Austin Pets Alive! | Paddle for Puppies May 7th, 2023

    Austin Pets Alive! | Paddle for Puppies May 7th, 2023

    Apr 05, 2023

    Paddle for Puppies is back for the 12th year in a row! Celebrated as one of Austin’s favorite events, this iconic gathering is more than just a paddle down Lady Bird Lake — it’s a lifesaving endeavor!

    Sponsored by Austin Subaru and hosted at Rowing Dock, Paddle for Puppies 2023, will take place on Sunday May 7th at 8:00am. Both people and water-confident dogs* paddle 2.5 miles down Lady Bird Lake, just past Congress bridge on the boat of your choice — kayak, SUP, canoe, all in support of our Parvo Puppy ICU! Visit the registration site to learn more and to scoop up your ticket!

    Why does APA! even have a Parvo Pupp

    Paddle for Puppies on May 7th, 2023 Paddle for Puppies on May 7th, 2023y ICU? Prior to the birth of this program, due to the highly contagious nature and almost-always fatal outcome if not treated, puppies that tested positive for parvovirus were typically euthanized because resources didn’t exist to support this vulnerable group. In 2008, the dedicated and determined humans that began APA! as we know it today, made the decision that they would begin pulling and treating all parvo positive puppies. In November of 2008, the city of Austin achieved no kill for puppies because of our program!

    Since 2008, this ICU has taken in thousands of puppies and has steadily achieved a 90% save rate. The work that takes place in this program is hard, both physically and emotionally and is worth it daily to see the tiny tail wags of puppies who know we are working to save their lives. And later, to see the smiling faces of the people who adopt these little survivors.

    Fundraisers like Paddle for Puppies are an integral piece to the lifesaving work that takes place in this program. On average, it can cost upwards of $400 to treat a puppy with parvovirus. Last year, our Parvo team treated just over 1300 puppies and so far this year, this dedicated team has treated just over 300 puppies.

    We’re excited for another year of gathering with both those who have attended this event every year and those who are joining for the first time. There’s nothing better than a group of humans coming together to save some puppy dog lives! See you there!

    *Due to the potential for toxins in the water, waivers will be required if you are planning to bring a dog on the water. These waivers will be available at registration when you check-in on-site. Dogs attending must stay in/on their vessel and should not drink the lake water.

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  • Exits and Entrances (AuthorHouse.com) wins Official Selection Award on Film Freeway (2023) in Rome, Italy – World News Report – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

    Exits and Entrances (AuthorHouse.com) wins Official Selection Award on Film Freeway (2023) in Rome, Italy – World News Report – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

    Exits wins in 2023

    Hemingway 23

    heming2

    Congratulations! “organized labor” wins our Hemingway award for April 12, 2023.

    NEWARK, NJ, USA, April 1, 2023/EINPresswire.com/ — Exits and Entrances (AuthorHouse.com) wins Official Selection Award on Film Freeway (2023) in Rome, Italy.

    Exits and Entrances (AuthorHouse.com) wins award on Film Freeway as best book in 2023 in Rome, Italy.

    Having produced and seen opera since I was in high-school EVERY performance that goes well is a miracle. There have been disasters at The Met, NY City Opera between management and singers; directors and designers; stage-hands and stage managers and Off-Broadway. Don’t break a leg is often in play on or off-stage.

    Exits and Entrances (AuthorHouse.com) chronicles 30 years of some of these. Break a leg but look 3 times in all directions., believe me

    My Projects – AuthorHouse

    Exits and Entrances: Producing Off-Broadway, Opera & Beyond: 1981-2006

    Daniel P. Quinn

    Genre :BIO026000ISBN

    Format Price Status 97814259263046×9

    Perfect Bound Softcover $19.99 Title Live

    Congratulations! “organized labor” wins our Hemingway award for April 12, 2023.

    This was our 4th Award since 2022 (as noted below). “Sweet Democracy Film Awards was created by the production team that made the latest film with Nobel Prize-winning writer Dario Fo…

    Original Author Link click here to read complete story..

    MMP News Author

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