Twilight's Moment of Truth

I have to be honest, I’ve been dreading this blog since I finally got to see the movie with Professor H on Thanksgiving weekend.

I’m completely torn on how I feel about this movie. On the one hand, I love the fact that one of my favorite books has come to the big screen. I no longer have to fantasize about what the characters look like; they’re right in front of me acting out my favorite parts. There’s Edward with his snow white skin and dazzling eyes and Bella with her shy looks and witty remarks.

But on the other hand, actually hearing the dialogue brings me to the sad realization that this book has to be THE cheesiest thing I’ve ever read and by far the worst written. I feel so terrible for having these conflicted thoughts but there it is. Sorry, no way to sugarcoat it.

Here are some of my favorite and not so favorite moments:

#1 I love the scene when the Cullen family walks into the cafeteria and Bella sees Edward for the first time.

#2 The scene in Biology when Edward gets his first whiff of Bella-- not a very high moment for the film. Not only did he look like he was about to regurgitate all over his biology book but his acting, in my opinion, was a little overkill. I guess it just didn’t seem that exaggerated in my head when I read that part in the book.

#3 I love when Esme and Carlisle try cooking dinner for Bella and Rose has a little, pretty-girl temper tantrum. Freaking hysterical! (Side note: Super cute the way Edward looks totally embarrassed by his family’s display of kookiness when they meet Bella—Kind-of like a normal guy would. Good Job Robert!)

#4 Another scene that’s really terrible is when Edward shows her just how different he is in the sun. All I saw was his hairy dazzling chest. Ew, gross.

There are many more scenes that I both love and hate but nothing is going to stop me from buying it the first day it comes out on DVD.

Feel free folks to leave a comment and tell me what you thought of the movie. Love it or hate it I have to say its still an intriguing story. Can’t wait for New Moon.


V.

Twilight Women

There's been a lot of talk over at the university where I work about the value (or in most cases, un-value) of TWILIGHT. Most arguments against the novel center on Edward's possessiveness and Bella's apparent passivity. Nevertheless, all these profs are reading the series, talking about it in their classes, analyzing it via a feminist lens, and overall, creating new fans of the series among the students, though unwillingly, I'll bet.

As we wait for V.'s review of the film (we watched it together over Thanksgiving and squeed with the best of them. I'll let her tell the story), I offer Sarah Haskin's Target Women episode on Twilight. I think the argument she's trying to humorously create here is at the center of Twilight criticism. Enjoy!



Prof. H

NOVEMBER 21ST

I must give my condolences to all Harry Potter fans as today marks the death of one release date but the birth of another. This was once the happy release date of the much anticipated Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. However, it is bitter sweet. Twilight, as we all know, has taken it's place and although there are mixed reviews I am confident the film will do well. I have not seen the film yet (for shame I know...but wait I have a good reason) because I have promised Professor H I would wait for her so we can sqee together. EW.com give a good overview of the reviews the film's been getting thus far. I promise to give my own review once I've seen it. Until then I'm battling the internet and trying not to run into spoilers.

Happy Twilight Day!!!

V.

My Favorite Screencap of the New Trailer

Lookit! Poofy Hermy hair (methinks it's due to a potions explosion, but whatever), Parvati, Dean, Neville and Ron looking so grown and gorgeous, and Seamus all sooty and confused, as Seamus should be:)

July, WB? Really?

Yet Another HBP Trailer

This one really captures the driving plot of the novel--Harry must help uncover memories of Voldy in order to learn how to defeat him. In addition, some of the humor of HBP comes through. It's the funniest book, easy.

Highlights: Love-potioned Ron, weepy Hermione, Ginny kissing Harry, Distraught Draco, Spectre-spec Luna, triumphant Bellatrix, Sluggie's false memory, and Hermione's appropriately poofy hair (It's back! W00T!). Enjoy

JackPot!

Beautiful Blood Sucking People Photo Shoot...



Enjoy.

V.

Not a Trailer but Ohhh so much better

Yes!!! Actual footage from the movie. Loved it!

Somthing else I found on the world wide web, this picture of Carlisle and Esme. One word, HOT!!!!!


Source
Sorry, can't help myself. I'm feverishly wishing I was her right now...

V.

Gah! NEW HPB Trailer! Gah!

The last five seconds are PRICELESS!!!



Harry on the train with the cloak? Check. Lav-lav and Won-won? Check. Creepy Fenrir Greyback? Check. Harry yells at Snape and calls him a coward? Check. Quidditch? Check. Apparating? Check. Bringing on the lols? Check. July still nine months away? Tragically, check.

Much love and Pottery,
Prof. H

Gatta love the outtakes

Featured on EW.com are some of there Best Photo Outtakes of the Year and one of them happens to be this very sultry picture of Pattinson and Stewart.

Alas, tis too much for the pitter patter of my little heart.

V.

It's all about Twilight

So the past few blogs have been about Twilight and I apologize to all the Harry Potter and Star Wars fans but man oh man is Twilight on a roll this week.

I would now like to present you with...drum roll please...the very best Twilight movie trailer Ever!!!



I swear after watching it I got goosebumps. That trailer had me feeling the intensity of Bella and Edward's relationship. 2 words...FREAKING AWESOME! and the music was much better in this trailer too.

TWILIGHT in the HOUSE!!! Can't wait til November 21st.

V.

New Poster for Twilight

So here's the new poster for Twilight the movie...



Hmmm...I'm a little torn on how I feel about this picture of Pattinson and Stewart. I've been reading some articles covering the release of this new poster and they all seem to be quite into it. There's even a clip on the MTV website that has a video on "the making of the poster" which is, in my opinion, a tad bit overkill. Milk-it much?

However, there is an article more along the lines of how I'm thinking.

V.

Where's Twilight's video game?

So, Professor H has Harry Potter (see trailer below) and the never ending video game possibilities (seven to be exact) and Jedi J has the immortalized story of Star Wars where they keep on coming up with cool new video games.

I'd like to know when it's Twilight's turn? Where’s Twilight’s video game empire!!!! I want a Lego version too!!!

Aside from the total injustice of no Twilight video game I can totally sympathize with Jedi J’s situation. Although I am not waiting to play, I have watched my boyfriend play The Force Unleashed non-stop for the past couple of weeks. He refuses to put it down until he beats the game. I must say it looks pretty cool. Did you know that Darth Vader’s secret apprentice can throw out some wicked cool lightning bolts and totally incapacitate his enemy? Too freaking awesome!


Jedi J, I’m so glad to hear of your new found love for all that is Twilight. Welcome!

...and now, as promised, I present to you yet another reminder of our long wait for The Half Blood Prince...the video game.



V.

Letters from Jedi J

Dear Franklin,
Thank you for your comment on my post. I can't tell you how happy that made me feel. As for the game, The Force Unleashed, at the present moment I am patiently waiting for my husband to finish playing it. Patience is a Jedi gift, the Sith (as my husband pointed out when he violently grabbed the game from my hands) do not possess this gift. So when I finally am allowed to play the game (he got it for his PSP, the one with Vader on it) I will be able to comment some more.
Jedi J

Dear Readers,
I have finally seen the movie Star Wars: The Clone Wars and I must admit that I LOVED it. The dialogue is great, the inside jokes, the sarcasm, and the humor were all there. I actually left the theater wishing that Lucas would have released it as a live action movie with the real actors. I am running out to the store today to buy the book because I want to read it before the animated series starts on Friday. I have already set my DVR to record the series. If you are a fan of the Original Trilogy or a fan of the books, this movie will entertain you.
Jedi J

Dear V,
Professor H had been trying to get me to read the Twilight series and alas I gave in and bought the books. I must say that after reading the series I really did enjoy them. OK, so I could not put them down. The Twilight bug has hit my Jedi Academy too. I am now a member of the Twilight Book club which will begin to meet this Tuesday in our not so vast library. We are even planning a field trip to go see the movie, without the younglings of course.
Jedi J

A Postcard Secret I TOTALLY Agree With

I just learned about Postsecret, an art project site where people mail in their secrets on postcards, anonymously. I found this Potter-y one and had to post it, as it reflects my sentiments exactly:



Prof. H

Caption This!

You fill in the blanks. What were these two just talking about?



And here? This is the oddest HP photo I've ever seen? What could prompt such a gathering? Now's your chance to caption these in the comments:)

Prof. H

Rupert's Turn

In recent posts I've waxed (not so) poetic about how grown-up Dan Radcliffe and Emma Watson seem all of the sudden. Now it's Rupert Grint's turn:



What is this? Stubble? Muscles? Who? What? Where? Pics from the set of Grint's new film Wild Target reveal a whole new Rupert. I'm just hoping Harry and Ron forget their razors or whatever shaving spell wizards use while they're camping in the film version of Deathly Hallows. Just saying.

Oh, and that girl, she isn't me. Sigh.


source

Prof. H

Franklin Keane, Our New Hero

Dear Franklin Keane,
Thank you for your comment on Jedi J's recent post. You are our first commenter. Until now, we thought we were just navel gazing here.

You've given us a reason to go on, and are henceforth our hero.
Yours,
TwiWizardJedi

Even More Picture Fun

Since it seems we are in the midst of a news blackhole regarding all three of our fandoms, I'm taking my cue from V's last post and sharing some visual, Potter-y joy, circa Order of the Phoenix last year..



I love this to pieces. Dan plays Harry here perfectly. Note the "You bastards didn't write me all summer my godfather is dead no one likes me so I'll lean against this wall from the two of you and hope it pulls a Platform 9 3/4 and lets me break on through to the other side, break on through to the other side, yeeeahhhhhh!" posture.

Rupert is all Ron-like, too. Slouchy and insecure. I covet his sweaters, by the way.

But Emma's sexy, draped over the castle wall pose doesn't really say Hermione, does it? It's, dare I say it, a very Lavender Brown way to sit. There's something all, "Come hither, Ronnie, let's make some 'special' magic," cougary feel to it. No wonder Ron is leaning away.

Or, perhaps, I'm reading too much into it all.

Prof. H

For Jedi J

more animals

I got this picture from an email. So funny. The kitty really looks like Yoda.

V.

Re: New Twilight Trailer!

Good stuff Professor H. Good Stuff. Very Funny. Those guys deserve some kind of award.

My favorite part is at the end. I've always thought that the part was kind-of cheesy and needed some good-ole fashioned spoofing.

V.

Star Wars: Force Unleashed

For all you Star Wars fans out there, Tuesday brings the release of The Force Unleashed. In this video game we get to play Vader's apprentice. The story line flows with Star Wars lore: there are no fake Earthlings who seem to be able to withstand a blow from a light saber several times, nor does Yoda use Force lightning on his foe. But I digress.

There are many places to see the previews for this jaw-dropping game. I have seen commercials on TV and, of course, demos on starwars.com. The full story will be released with the game; expect to see books that continue the story as well.

As for now, I will have to practice my gaming skills (because I really do lack in that area). I am even tempted to buy a Wii just so I can use the little "Light saber" to play the game, but alas, my Jedi instructor paycheck does not allow me to. Oh well.

Jedi J

New Twilight Trailer!

Well, sort of. Not really. But THIS is funny!



Prof. H (obviously. V would never play such a mean trick with the title. Bwa-ha-ha)

Half Blood Prince Test Screening

Someone has seen The Half Blood Prince, and alas, it wasn't me. There was a test-screening in Chicago yesterday, and up at the Leaky Cauldron, they've posted a detailed review. People, MAJOR SPOILERS when you follow the link.

I read through the thing and am ridiculously excited. Yes, there are many, many deviations from the novel, but I think they capture the essence of the book. Read if you must, and judge for yourself.

Prof. H

Feel Better, V.

Dearest V,

I know the postponement of Midnight Sun has gotten you down. But I'm certain that this, THIS, picture from Cosmogirl, of Emmett and Edward and Jacob will hearten you.

Love,
Prof. H

What a Freaking Disaster

V.: Edward, why so sad?
Edward Cullen: Because someone leaked my freaking story that's why!

Well, I know by now everyone has heard the very disappointing news about Midnight Sun's leak. I am deeply saddened by Meyers decision to indefinitely postpone the release of her book (not that I blame her). With the little that has been posted I think Midnight Sun is potentially her best book yet. So fans, say a very special thank you to the ingrate that allowed this leak to happen. Now who knows how long it's going to take to get her writing again. Hope she snaps out of it quick!

Thanks again BUTT-HEAD!

V.

Have a Post-Labor Day Happy

Back to work? Longing for the weekend already? Perhaps this will cheer you up:



It seems to be the theme of this blog lately, but my, how they've grown...

Prof. H

Christmas at the Burrow

Aah, the holidays at the Weasley home. Full of pumpkin pasties, knitted initial sweaters, and loads of Weasley goodness.

It also reminds me that Harry Potter movies are best viewed DURING. THE. HOLIDAYS.

Not July.

Prof. H

All Growned Up

Emma Watson in the new issue of Italian Vogue is looking positively radiant. In the pulled out quote above, Watson says:

"People have the strange sensation of knowing me intimately because they've seen me transform from a child to a woman, though it's only been on the screen."

Indeed, I think there's a general sense of protectiveness regarding the trio, whom we've seen grow up before our eyes. It helps, too, that none of them have pulled a Lindsay/Paris/Miley.

Prof. H

(A reluctant "thanks" to my terrible Italian teacher back in high school. I guess I learned something after all)

More Leaked HBP Script

Click here for yet another "leaked script" excerpt. Whether these are real or not, I don't have the wherewithal to verify. But damn! They sure sound good.

Dan Radcliffe on Conan O'Brien

Of the actors who play the trio in the Harry Potter series, none is more effusive, clever, or appealing than Dan Radcliffe. He's grown into a handsome and intelligent young man, as well as a fine actor. Whoever did the casting for The Sorcerer's Stone should be given an award. As we all know, casting an 11 year old and projecting him ten years down the line is a gamble. Dan could have gone all sorts of bad (same for Rupert and Emma). Thank Merlin he (and they) didn't. This clip is proof:

Twilight Sneak Peak from Penelope Movie

Enjoy,
V.

Breaking Dawn Review

OK so I'm finally done. I know, I know. What took me so long! Well...I actually finished the book about a week and a half ago but I had to stew over what I was going to write. So here goes...

I thought the book was pretty darn good. I felt like there were a few anticlimactic scenes, like at the end with all the talk of fighting but no actual smack down. But overall the book was everything I hoped it would be. No one important died and Bella got to be a vampire and a mother all in one shot. Oh! Did I mention her and Edward live happily ever after. WooHoo!!

Here's the best and the worst according to me:

Best:
#1 Had to be that Bella turned out to have a supernatural power. So on top of the fact that post-bitten Bella was now beautiful, hand/eye coordinated, and in total control of herself (an amazing feat already being a newborn Vampire)she is now SUPER COOL VAMPIRE, Mrs. Cullen.

#2 The whole twist of Bella being pregnant and having an awesomely sweet and talented baby. (I didn't see the whole pregnancy thing coming).

Worst:
#1 Now here's where I have to get down and dirty...What's up with too many pages being dedicated to talk, talk, talk and no action at the end with the Volturi Coven. Was it just me or was Aro past being diplomatic and on his way to being obnoxious.

#2 The completely pointless story side line when Alice lead Bella to J Jenks. What was that all about? Then the lame excuse of "Oh, I had to make sure you thought I was really gone" from Alice. It just wasn't convincing enough to make the reader go through it.

So those are my opinions in a nut shell. Hope those of you that read the book liked it as much as I did.

V.

Leaked Script: UPDATED

We live in an age of instant information, camera phones that rival spy gear, and a vast, vast blogosphere. In such an atmosphere, will Warner Bros be able to keep a lid on The Half Blood Prince, a film that's already completed?

Nope.

And as a fan irked by the delay, I welcome any and all leaks. WB pushes back my movie, so I get my kicks when I can.

That said, the first of the leaks has begun. Click here for a leaked scene script from the eight-months-away-movie. The fans of the romance in the book will enjoy this. Four words: Ginny, Dean, Ron, Hermione.

And a fifth. Squee.

Prof. H

UPDATE:

And there's more...scripts from a quidditch scene, the attack of the Burrow, and a Slughorn pensieve memory here.

Meme Time: UPDATED

Hoping Jedi J and V will join me on this one taken from artist Lauren Bergholm's blog.

So, name the characters you would:

- Bake cupcakes for:
- Trust with the keys to my car:
- Put thumbtacks on the chair thereof:
- Have a crush on:
- Pack up and leave if they moved next door:
- Vote for President:
- Pick as my partner in a buddy movie:
- Pair up:
- Vote off the island and into the volcano:

Easy, peezy. I'd bake cupcakes for Crabbe and Goyle, because they'd love them so. I'd trust my car keys to Arthur Weasley. When I get the car back, that sucker's gonna fly! Put thumbtacks on Umbridge's seat (Jo should have killed HER off). Have a mad, crazy crush on Ron Weasley. Squee. Pack up and leave if Mundungus Fletcher moved in next door. Harry for President! Movie buddy partner: Hermione Granger. Brainy types at the movies are great. I'd pair up Tonks and Charlie. Sorry, Lupin. Never was a fan of that pairing. Finally, Draco gets voted off the island and tossed into a volcano for being an insufferable git.

Prof H.

I'd bake cupcakes for the Jedi younglings from Attack of the Clones because they are so cute and I have a soft spot for younglings. I would trust my car keys to Chewbacca, I might even end up with a smoother ride and maybe even capable of outer space travel. I will put thumbtacks on Palpatine's throne (I would say I hate him but hate leads to suffering). I have and always will have a massive crush on Han! I would move in an instant if Jabba moved in next door. I would vote for Mon Motha or Bail Organa for President. I would pick Han as my buddy because I love him so. I would pair up Yoda and Yaddle because I want to know what they heck they are and I think baby Yodas will be cute. And the most obvious, I would vote off Jar Jar because he is easily tricked into giving Palpatine exactly what he wanted.

Jedi J


My turn...
I would bake cupcakes for Jacob because I know HE is one of the few that would be able to enjoy them. I would trust Edward with the keys to my car because he can drive it like a race car driver and not even break a sweat (damn those reflex skills). Thumbtacks for James because he tried to bite Bella. Uh, Uh, NOT COOL! I have to admit I have a bit of a crush on Jacob. I would pack up and leave in a heartbeat if the Volturi moved in next door. Carlisle for President. I can totally see myself wearing a "VOTE FOR CARLISLE" pin. Buddy for the movies, Alice. Although, she might spoil the ending for me. I would have paired up Jacob and Leah because they had that love/hate thing going on. Voting off Victoria and sending her into the blistering depths of hell where she shall burn for all eternity...J/K. But she does end up getting what she deserves. Good ending Eclipse.

V.

Jedi J Sends Her Sympathies (and makes a Twilight announcement?)

Dear Professor H,

I am sorry to hear that your movie will not be released until next year. If Master Lucas ever did that to me I would have the same reaction that you did, maybe even worse (having to explain to youngling sitters that I will not need their services after I had booked them so far in advanced).

I want you to know that some good will come of this horrible deed that the WB has done to us all. Sorry V, for stepping onto your turf, but I wanted everyone to know that Twilight will be taking Harry Potter's date now that it is vacated. No more waiting until December. November 21 is now the day you can go see the movie.

As for me, I was so exhausted getting my classroom ready at the Jedi Academy for my younglings that I could not go see Clone Wars. As soon as I go see it I will let you know what I think about it.

My sympathies,

Jedi J

Even More Healing (Of the Potential Snogging Kind)

Ah, WB, your transparent attempt at appeasing us with photos is...working:)



I may have uttered a feeble little squee at that one. Then...behold...



Ah, Rupert, making everything better again.

Prof. H

Let the Healing Begin

So, in what I assume is an effort to assuage fans, WB has released several new photos from the now delayed Half Blood Prince flick. These can be viewed here.

A sampling:



Ginny: So you decided this with...without m-m-me?
Harry: Frankly, kid, you were barely in the other films.
Hermione: And I won't be upstaged!
Ginny: What about that random kid? And that one? And that one?
Slughorn: Alas, what's done is done Ginevra. You've been voted off the island. Pack your trunk and your pygmy puff, and be gone.



McGonagall: What is it, Severus?
Snape: A gift from the WB, with their condolences for the death of our November premiere.
Hermione (in the background): Merlin, that thing is fugly. And really, I can SEE the strings holding it up!
Ron (in the background): Hollywood gits.
Harry (in the background): Seriously, mate.



Harry: Sup, Sluggie.
Slughorn: What's with the flashy jacket and tie, Harry m'boy?
Harry: Pimpin' ain't easy, Slug.
Slughorn: Loved you in Equus.
Harry: (Shudder)

You Fail, WB!

Photo by ~oddman~exe

My heart. 'Tis broken into a thousand pieces. I think I may have to build a few horcruxes just to put myself together. Alas, Warner Bros. has pushed The Half Blood Prince movie back from its November 2008 release to July 2009.

Epic fail, WB. Epic fail.

Also, no fair. V. gets her Twilight movie. Jedi J gets her Clone Wars flick. What do I get? All I want is my fair share. All I want is what's coming to me (to quote Peanuts' Sally).

Epic. Fail.


Prof H

Getting Me One of Those, ASAP

Photo by Fegie


In the meantime, as we wait for V. to finish Breaking Dawn....

Muggle scientists are close to fashioning a kind of invisibility cloak of their own, The Daily Prophet is reporting.

Could be dead useful for after-curfew snogging. Tee to the Hee:)

More news at 11:00.

Prof. H

Just a BD update

I got the book Breaking Dawn and I'm reading it full steam ahead. OMG! That's all I can say. OMG!

I'm not done reading it but so far it's freaking intense. I don't want to spoil it for anyone that might not have started reading it yet so I won't say anything major. With all that's going on with Bella I can't help but drift more and more toward team Jacob with every chapter I finish. I don't know. I just don't know.

I'll blog all about it when I'm done.

V.

The Gamer in Me

I know I'm a bit late to this party (considering The Half Blood Prince video game will be out a in a few months), but I just started playing the Order of the Phoenix videogame on the Wii.

I'll admit, I'm not much of a gamer. My husband watches me play and gets so immensely frustrated with my lack of hand-eye coordination that he leaves the room, or takes over the controller. This videogame ineptitude has not been alleviated by OoTP videogame, but I charge on, dammit!

The Wii controller is your "wand," which makes gameplay fun, though not always accurate. Harry tends to wave his arm around like an insane person under my control. Tiny footsteps tell you where to go, which is good for a spatially challenged person like me. And the best part--if you Reparo a bunch of things, you reveal mini making-of featurettes. Lots of Rupert Grint interviews (squee!). That alone motivates me to go on.

The game is not really challenging, which again, fine for me, but serious gamers will probably get bored Reparo-ing half the castle. Also, Hermione spends much of the game urging you to "Get to the library," while Ron incessantly tells you to "Check your map!" No worries. You can always throw benches at them when they get really annoying.

Here's a preview featuring the cut scenes. The graphics are quite good, and Hermione, especially is, creepily, Emma Watson to a T:

I thought I could wait

Ok, so the cheap-o in me had to Pre-order Breaking Dawn through Amazon.com for like half the price. But I have to tell you this wait is excruciating!!!! What was I thinking!!!!

I was at Barnes & Noble yesterday and I was this () close to buying a copy just to start reading it already. I called Amazon.com to get a better feel for when to expect the book and they assured me that it's supposed to come in tomorrow. FINALLY!!! On top of all this my sister was at my house yesterday and I practically fainted when I saw she was more then half-way through the book. She tried to talk about it but I just pinched my ears and told her not to say a thing. I want to be totally surprised when I read it. I'm almost fanatical about this book. What's wrong with me?

V.

Birthdays and a Bard

We at TwiWizardJedi want to wish J.K. Rowling and Harry Potter a very, very happy birthday.

In honor of the day, Amazon.com has announced the sale of The Tales of Beedle the Bard, the limited edition, hand-written book auctioned off earlier this year. There are two versions--the standard, affordable version and a pimped out replica of the auctioned book, both seen above. I can't afford the latter, as they are selling it for a hundred clams. Alas.

The book will be out by December, perfect for my Christmas present!

Prof.H

Harry Potter Euphoria

I must squee at once with my fellow blog buddy Professor H. SQQQQUUUEEE!!!!!! This is just to much for my little heart to contain. I know my area is Twilight but I need to express my complete and utter joy for all that is Harry Potter! The Half Blood Prince trailer is all that and a bag of chips. I think the part that did it for me was when Dumbledore shows baby Voldi that he too can light things on fire. Awesomeness.

Dumbledorks Unite!!!!

V.

Half Blood Prince Trailer (At Last!)

Witness Baby Voldemort, 70's Pimp Dumbledore, Pajama-clad Ginny, and HP's scariest trailer to date:



It needn't be said, but...SQUEE!!!!

Prof. H

Jedi J is Gonna Kill Me For This...

...but I have to. I. Just. Have. To.



Sorry, J.

Prof. H

In the meantime...

As we wait for the Half-Blood Prince movie trailer, promised to us by the Warner Bros. gods to debut this Tuesday, I give you this to kill time: quite possibly, the best Harry Potter with Fluffy on a leash costume. Ever.



courtesy Faildogs

Harry Potter and the Mysteriously Delayed Trailer

Harry: Are they mental?
Hermione: Honestly, Harry, it hasn't been that long.
Harry: Longer than one of Binns' history lessons.
Hermione: We all need to exercise patience.
(Off camera) Ron: Bloody hell, Hermione, I'm done waiting.
Harry: One more false alarm and I'm AK-ing someone!
Hermione: What???
(Off camera) Ron: I'm with you, mate. Those blokes at the WB have been bang out of order making us waiting so long.
Hermione: It will have been worth the wait, boys. I'm confident the trailer will be released next Tuesday.
Harry: It better be. By the way, what the hell are we looking at out here in the cold?
(Off camera) Ron: Who the eff knows, Harry. Who the eff knows.

Why?

Why oh why would they make him look sooooo damn foolish?!



I happen to know that while some of my fellow Twilight fans think that this picture is hot the others are just plain creeped out by it. Although Kristen Stewart looks gorgeous, they put what looks like lipstick on the poor guy. Not to mention his bushy eyebrows. Ewww. Ok so maybe I'm just being too prissy to appreciate his rugged handsomeness but I can't find anything appealing about that picture. Never mind that they (by they I mean Hollywood or whoever is doing their film publicity) are obviously trying to "over sex" the whole idea of this very innocent teen romance.

Poor Robert is getting some major flack from fellow bloggers about the weird hair and make-up. Here are a couple of sites that happen to have something to say about the Entertainment cover.

V.

Must See!

Hello all, there is finally a full length trailer to be proud of. While watching the previews for The Dark Knight I was pleasantly suprised to see a longer more detailed trailer of the COOLEST Movie EVER!!!! No, No really besides all the sqeeing I do for all the beautiful people in this film I hope this movie lives up to all the hipe.

Enjoy



V.

There Are Some Things Which Should Not Be Messed With

I was walking through the mall on Saturday and I passed by the video game store. I look in expecting to see some display or poster announcing the release date of The Force Unleashed instead I see a poster announcing the release of Soulcaliber IV. In this poster there are two very familiar faces, Darth Vader and Yoda. I am curious about this, so I pick up the box that has some details about the game. I don't see where the Star Wars connection is so I decide that I must research this game.

Finding information about this game is very easy and in no time I realize that there really is no Star Wars connection. This game takes place during the 16th century here on EARTH!

I am not too happy about this but I must read on. I go to starwars.com to find out more and possibly why this is happening. After I spend some time checking out some Clone Wars action, I go directly to the main site where I see "Realities Collide: Soulcalibur IV". I click that link and I begin to read the information. I don't really see a true explanation of why when I read so I am including the link to see if maybe someone out there can explain to me why this is being done other than because it is cool.

Here are my problems with this game.

1. Star Wars takes place a long time ago (I concede that the 16th century is a long time ago) in a galaxy far, far away. How do Yoda and Vader get to Earth? The Galaxy that Star Wars belongs to is such a great distance from Earth that the word "far" is mentioned twice. Can only Jedi make this great journey that takes them light years away from their own galaxy? With all the solar systems in their own galaxy, why would they even bother with ours?

2. Lightsabers touching swords. UMMM, last time I checked, lightsabers cut through metal. So the fight would be one sided and end really quick.

3. Jedi vs. Non Jedi. HMMM, another advantage for the Jedi. Like in The Empire Strikes Back, Vader just took Han's blaster from him by using the Force. Wouldn't Yoda just disarm his Earthling foe by using the force to take it away? Jedi are meant to fight as a last resort not as the first option. How can an Earthling block Force Lightning? Why wouldn't Vader just put a choke hold on his foe? Bottom line, the Jedi will always win.

4. Star Wars was meant to remain untouchable by Earthlings. If not then why haven't the books or the real video games introduced this concept?

Let's just say, this is one game I would rather not play.

Jedi J

Rice vs. Meyer

When I was around 13 I remember rifling through my mom’s novel collection and finding Anne Rice’s Tale of the Body Thief and the Mummy. Not Vampire stuff, I know, but still very cool supernatural stuff nonetheless. I was utterly and completely absorbed into all that was otherworldly and had a bit of romance tied into the plot. I later discovered she had written a whole series of vampire novels. Aha! Jackpot! I laid into all her stuff including the Witches of Mayfair Series.

After my gluttonous consumption of Rice’s sexy and mysterious novels I have been unable to find another author that has intrigued my interest…until now. Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight series is the best thing that could have happened to a weirdo like me.

Although the two authors share a theme there are still some very obvious differences. A quick example: Rice’s characters are dark and gothic, whereas Meyer’s are light and modern. Both writers share the complexities that would encompass what it means to be a vampire but each with their own theme in mind. Meyer‘s human side of the Vampire (not unlike Louie from Rice’s Interview of a Vampire) satisfies the readers need to find the good in something evil.

As Meyer continues to expand her characters I keep wondering how it will all end. Her newest and most anticipated novel (at least to me it is), Breaking Dawn, regretfully brings Bella and Edward's story to an end (from Bella's perspective).

Check out Meyer talk about Breaking Dawn.



V.

Happy 4th of July

What are you doing reading this blog? Go eat some hot dogs and burgers! Watch fireworks at night!

Oh? Still here?

Perhaps you are in the mood for fireworks--Weasley style!



Happy 4th of July, folks.

Prof. H

Today Just Can't Get Any Better...

...because I've just discovered a new Potter Puppet Pals!!! Watch for the best line: "'Sup, Hermione?'"



Prof. H

Let the Hyperventilicationifying Begin!

Half-Blood Prince movie news is finally here. USA Today has a preview of the film here. Make sure to click on the gallery for new pictures, including a love-sick Ron holding Romilda Vane's potioned-up chocolates, a slick, slick Draco, and Hermione sniffing some Amortentia.

Empire magazine has put our favorite boy-who-lived on the cover, looking bloody, cracked and, dare I say, a bit sexy (above). Click on the link for a bigger shot.

From the rumor mill: The HPB trailer is coming ahead of Batman.

Excuse me while I go breathe into a paper bag...

Prof. H

Question My Allegiance to the Fandom You Shall Not

Recently, I was able to catch up with a good friend and fellow Star Wars fan. In one of our conversations the topic of naming children came up. You see, he has two beautiful children, Anakin and Amara. While Anakin's name was a deliberate attempt on his part to show his love of Star Wars, Amara was a compromise. He wanted Mara, but his wife did not want another Star Wars name (little did they know Amara IS a Star Wars name). I, of course, have my Jaina (poor Vanessa, my youngest, I tried to get you a Star Wars name, too).

Now here is the debatable part of the conversation. My good friend, a person with who I have spent countless hours going over Star Wars lore, speculation, and even movie dialogue, a person who lost to me when we played Star Wars Trivial Pursuit (although that game I can honestly say I did not win in one turn), claims that I am not a true fan because I did not name my child with a Star Wars name that is easily recognizable as a Star Wars name. Obviously he has not read my blog post "Why I love Star Wars: Princess Leia". He quickly pointed out how anyone who has seen the movies knows who Anakin is and how I usually have to explain where I got Jaina's name.

Am I less of a fan because I did not name Jaina Leia or Padme? I think not! If anyone dares to question my devotion again, I challenge them to a game of Star Wars Trivial Pursuit (regular or DVD version)!


- Jedi J

Wizard + Rock = Wrock!

Wizard Rock hits the media mainstream in this story. While I haven't taken in much "wrock" myself, I'm continually amazed by the variety found in Harry Potter fan activities. From blogs, to college campus quidditch matches, to activism, to fan fiction and wandcraft, the HP fandom shows its love in many ways.

This little blog here is all about love, too. So wrock on, fans.

Prof. H

Book Review: The Rise and Fall of Darth Vader

Have you ever wondered why Sand People are called Tusken Raiders or why Dark Jedi are called Sith Lords? Or how did Smi and Anakin Skywalker become slaves? Or maybe you asked the most important question of all--is Anakin Skywalker the Chosen One?

The answers to these questions and some more are found in The Rise and Fall of Darth Vader, by Ryder Windham. It is the first book of a series that is to include the stories of Obi Wan Kenobi and Luke Skywalker.

The book's main focus is on Anakin's feelings during the timeline of the six movies. There are some insights to things that happened during the Clone Wars and the time that is to be addressed when The Force Unleashed is released, but nothing too major there. It also dabbles in the two stories that occur during the original Star Wars trilogy, Splinter of the Mind's Eye and Shadows of the Empire but once, again nothing too major.

Readers will find familiar dialogue in this book, as well as some moments that are not shown in the movies but that take place during the movie.

I hope you enjoy the book.

Jedi J

Pop Quiz

I always knew the red gummies were evil...Art by BeUrblackswan

So you think that you know everything there is to know about being a Jedi? How about being a Sith (had to for the hubby)? Test your Jedi or Sith knowledge with this quiz.

In honor of Star Wars weekends at Disney Hollywood Studios, a fun little exercise has been posted on their website. You can even print out a copy of your certificate.

Mine, of course, states that I am a Council Member. Of course.

Jedi J

New Ink from Rowling

Art by suetlilanglz

The Harry Potter prequel we told you about earlier has been posted online. Go here to read about James' and Sirius' adventures with a pair of Muggle policement. The story includes phoenix t-shirts, Sirius' flying motorcycle, and more James Potter cheekiness than anyone should be able to stomach (Oh, Lily, you poor woman). Some fan artist will draw something for it soon, but in the meantime, I've supplied a neat pic of the Marauders for you above.

I must say, the 800 word story feels a bit different from the Potter books. I suppose, for the first time since the opening chapter of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone in which we are in Vernon Dursley's head for a long time, the perspective is wholly Muggle. I think it was a good choice for this story.

I also must say that as the story loaded on my computer, I inexplicably danced around my kitchen singing "Billie Jean." Don't ask why. It's inexplicable.

There's also THIS. THIS new picture from the new Half-Blood Prince movie, in which Harry gives Ginny a sweet, sweet lovin' hug. Squee! Enjoy the Potter-y!

I want some more...

I just read the first chapter from Breaking Dawn and I absolutely LOVED IT!!!
The first chapter gives you a glimpse into the whirlwind of feelings Bella's going through. Bella is now dealing with the impending wedding, which in itself is a horrible display of gawking and fussing over her that she does not welcome; the honeymoon night, which she hopes brings her to a more equal playing field with Edward; and Jacob's withdrawal from all of his friends (he's probably moping somewhere in the mountains...just my opinion).

My head is loaded with different scenarios that could happen in the chapters to come. Like, maybe Jacob comes back and a lover's quarrel/Vampire Vs. Werewolf war breaks out right before they say "I do". Or, maybe the Volturi make an appearance and Bella and Edward have to make a run for it, leaving everyone wondering what happened to the bride and groom. These are just a couple of my favorite scenarios which may or may not be anything close to what Meyers has in store for us.

How will it all end...???


V.

Half-Blood Prince Movie Picture

A new picture (I write, as I clap hysterically and bounce in glee). November can't come soon enough...

Prof.H

More Potter from J.K.

Dear Class,

I've expanded your reading list for the year to include a new prequel to Harry Potter featuring Sirius Black and James Potter, written by J.K. Rowling herself. The short prequel (800 words) was written to support Dyslexia Action and the English PEN society and is included in a larger collection featuring short pieces by such notables as Neil Gaiman and Margaret Atwood, among others. Each work will be auctioned separately, but a collected volume should go on sale in August, so get your pennies together.

Pictured above is Rowling's sign off, which reads: "From the prequel I am not working on--but that was fun!" So a mere 800 words it must be for us, the eager fans.

Still, if you ache for more Potter, perhaps some good fan fiction will ease the pain. If you've ever delved into the world of fanfic, you'll soon learn that much of it is bad. Quite bad. But there are some gems in the mix. For your reading pleasure, as we wait for the "prequel," and Breaking Dawn in August (for you, V), I've collected some very good fanfics here (mind the ratings, younglings [for you, Jedi J]):

"Never Enough" by evanesco75, which begins with Molly Weasley's murder! Aah! So good.
"The Price of Love" by RogueSugah , which I read over two long flights and nearly burned my eyes out of their sockets because I couldn't put it down.
"Ginny Weasley and the Curse of the Firstborn" by Anniepenrose, and surprisingly, a Ginny/Draco story, which, surprisingly, made me love Draco.

That's enough reading for today, class. Quiz tomorrow.

Prof. H

I'd Like to be a Weasley, Please.

Just want to take this moment to say how very much I'd like to be a Weasley. They're a big, raucous, Quidditch loving family, all red-heads (my red-hair obsession goes way back to Annie, Anne of Green Gables, Ron Howard, and Strawberry Shortcake), and charmers, all of them.

And this, this right here, is the sweetest picture of Fred, George, Ron and Ginny ever. Just sneak me in there between Fred (or is it George?) and Ron when Hermione isn't looking, and I will be a happy, happy Professor H.

When Two Obsessions Collide

So, I was sitting at home checking my e-mail when I see a little advertisement for Bon Jovi on 60 minutes. Now of course I have to watch the whole entire piece because the only thing I love as much as Star Wars is Bon Jovi.

There I was, going gaga over Jon, (sorry Han, but you just don't have the six pack abs like Jon does) when he starts talking about his first paid recording job. It turns out he sang lead vocals on a little song called "R2-D2 We wish you a Merry Christmas".

So being the total fan that I am, I had to take a listen to it again, but this time with an even greater appreciation of the song. If you want to hear it, check this out.



Jedi J

California Dreaming...

Dearest Students,

I've returned from my research excursion to California and have come back with souvenirs for my Potter and Star Wars fans.

A visit to Grauman's Chinese Theater revealed the magical hand, foot and wand casts of our favorite trio. You can see the video of last year's event here.

This particular cast was difficult to photograph, as it was always surrounded by tourists, which made me sad for the Dick Van Dyke cast which no one seemed to care about. Yours truly was surprised to learn that Dan Radcliffe has tiny, tiny hands, and that Emma Watson is clearly a size 7 shoe.

Rupert Grint's foot cast and I shared a moment:



Shortly afterwards, I got the mother of all foot cramps, which leads me to believe that Grint cast the crampicus footiosa spell from a distance. Either that, or I was wearing inappropriate footwear for the long walk around Hollywood.



A few days later, at a Muggle diversionary park called Disneyland, I witnessed a Jedi training session, part of which I recorded for you:




Younglings were selected from the crowd for the training, and soon found themselves embroiled in a lightsaber battle with a pair of Sith. I happen to think Hogwarts is a better educational experience, but that's neither here nor there.

Unfortunately, students, there was nothing even remotely Twilight-ish to be found in California, the vampires avoiding the incredibly bright sunshine, I'm sure. Speaking of Twilight, our own V is on an excursion of her own, on something Muggles call a "cruise," so the Twilight blogging will be light (or taken over by me if something good comes up).

The trip was quite educational overall, so I am scheduling a field trip back to Los Angeles for the entire class. Permission slips due Tuesday.

Yours,
Professor H.

What a Teaser!

Twilight in HD


Now I don't want to over hype this movie but I think, as a true fan I might have to squee a little longer...

Holy Crap! That video was FREAKING AWESOME! I know every Twilight crazed website has already posted this teaser trailer but it's worth watching every time.

I just keep thinking about how those movie makers are going to recreate my favorite scenes. Like when Edward goes out in the sunlight with Bella and his skin sparkles. What his reaction really looks like when he catches his first painfully intoxicating whiff of Bella. The look on Edward's face when he realizes that James is about to make draining the life out of Bella his next conquest. These are all great scenes that have "WOW" potential. As evidence from the last scene in the trailer, where Edward picks Bella up and they fly out the window, I have faith that there will be more awesomeness to come.

Until next time my squee cohorts.

V.

Ooh, You Beautiful, Blood-sucking People!

Wow is the one word to sum up my reaction to this picture. I don’t know about you but I really can’t wait till the movie comes out. I think about all the time I should be spending doing work while compulsively searching the internet for more on the filming of Twilight. Every wasted minute is utterly worth it.

I love how all the characters are really coming together to bring the book to life. I think I must have read Twilight about 5 times. Every time I think of a character a new face from the movie pops into my head taking the place of my imaginary person. It's little things that get me so excited.

There's also a clip on You Tube, MTV Canada e2 On Set Exclusive,that's pretty cool. I think Rachelle Lefevre (Victoria) is great to watch, funny as hell.

V

Yes, There's Something I DON'T Like About Star Wars...

As Mother's Day quickly approaches I find myself reflecting on the ending of Revenge of the Sith. More specifically the death of Padme. Now call me naive but I got the impression from Return of the Jedi that Padme actually survived childbirth. I mean, Luke asks Leia point blank, "Tell me about your mother, your real mother." Leia goes on to say that she does not remember much because her mother died when she was really young.

Now to me "really young" is between 2 and 5 years of age. I mean, how much do you remember from your infancy? Come on, Leia was only a few minutes old when Padme died. So this now leads me to believe that Leia never knew she was adopted and the memory of her "mother" is of Bail Organa's wife. Which then leads to the question: why was she sad? Was she sad because the Republic no longer existed or was her health a reason for her sadness? Clearly, I must do some more reading on this matter.

Next, my thoughts on Padme. How could someone that was so headstrong, who risked her life on many occasions, just give up and die when her man turned evil? She sensed the good that was still in Anakin and she was strong enough to give birth. It seemed she did not fight for her children. The man she loved was no longer there so she stopped fighting. As a mother I cannot comprehend this. Don't get me wrong, I love my husband dearly, but the love that I have for my girls is on a totally different level. If I were Padme I would totally mess up the story. I would have fought to live for my children. I could not leave them alone to face the monster that their father had become. I could not risk him turning them to Dark Side. Now I must add that I don't know if my feelings would have been different had I not been a mother when I first read the story (yes, I read the book before I saw the movie). To this day I break down in tears every time I read of Padme's death or see that part in the movie. I don't cry for Padme, I cry for Luke and Leia. They never really knew their real mother and they never had the chance to. That is the real tragedy.

Jedi J

What's on the Star Wars Horizon...

Stormtroopers on Deal or No Deal? The Star Wars saga on Spike TV? Is this just some random Star Wars coincidence? I think not.

Get ready because in three short months Star Wars is returning to the big screen! This August an animated Star Wars movie will be released dealing with the Clone Wars. This will usher in new episodes of the Clone Wars animated series on television. The next big happening will be the live action television series, which is still in the development stages. This I do know--it will take place between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope. Although no major Star Wars character will be a central character in this series, it is still highly anticipated. I will have more details later.

Just a reminder, Star Wars Weekends are back at Disney's Hollywood studios, formally MGM studios. Click here for a complete list of activities and celebrity appearances check out this link.

May the Force be with You,

Jedi J

Deal? Or no deal? There is no try...

Attention all fanboys! The Deal or No Deal models will don Stormtrooper armor and Princess Leia slavegirl costumes for tonight's two-hour episode of Deal or No Deal.

What is the male version of "squee?" "Squoo?" "Squow?" Yes, squow. Squow, men, squow away!

I, for one, wish they'd haul out a couple dozen Han Solo impersonators. Just sayin'...

Professor H.

Can you Squee in Lolspeak?

Can you decode the title of this post? Here's help. According to the Urban Dictionary:

"Squee. v.
A noise primarily made by an over-excited fangirl, however it has spread rapidly and is now widely spread among the web community.

Omg!! New Harry Potter book out!! Omg Squee squee! omg!!!"

"lolspeak. n.

Any form of typed text language that is not in propper english, usually in referance to cute cat pictures

1.) -I can haz cheezburgr?
- Dude, stop speakig in lolspeak, just say "can I have a cheesburger?"

2.) iz in yer compooter, eatin yer megabitz"

Now that you can lolspeak wif us, enjoy dese pikturs from our fandoms. Kthx. bye.


see more crazy cat pics


see more crazy cat pics


see more crazy cat pics

We is in ur fandom, squeeing all over teh place. Mwah.