Celebrating Sisters' Day, the Fandom Way

Party!

Psst. National Sisters' Day is August 6th! In commemoration of such a joyous occasion, we celebrate the special bond only sisters share with, you guessed it, fandoms. Here are a few fandom celebration suggestions to consider.

The Powerpuff Girls 

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The Powerpuff Girls has always been something my sister and I (and even my mom) would watch together. Maybe what drew us in was the kickass action and sassy sweetness, but what kept us watching was how well these sisters, though quite distinctive from each other, interacted. That made me think that each sister might have a different idea about what to do on such a holiday. 

Blossom might suggest that her siblings sit around a comfortable nook, reading books. 

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Buttercup might offer that physical training (anything dealing with martial arts, weight lifting, kickball, dodgeball, fighting crime... well, maybe leave that to the superheroes) might be beneficial.

Bubbles could consider a nice tea party (perhaps, a lady’s luncheon) to be just the thing to spice up a lovely day. 

But one thing the girls would agree on is that spending time with each other is a paramount idea on National Sisters' Day. 

Frozen 

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You knew I was going to mention this. You had to. Even though Frozen is a tad overrated, I still can't help but remember the first time I saw it. I bawled. The movie made me think about how much I missed and appreciated my sister. 

Either sister in Frozen would definitely have a different idea about spending this wonderful day together. Anna, on one hand, would suggest anything adventurous, whether that be finishing each others sandwiches, attending a kingdom-wide ball, getting chocolate truffles, building a snowman (even in the middle of summer), or battling ice giants.

Aw!

I imagine Elsa would agree to the chocolate suggestion, but she might have more of a subtle way of spending it, like having a picnic or ice skating. She'd rather keep it intimate. 

But what they both understand is that sisters make sacrifices for one another. Either of them would agree to the other's plans to make their sister happy. 

The Parent Trap 

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Here's another fandom that my sister and I enjoyed watching when we were younger. Partially, it must have been because these two reminded us of ourselves, two opposites who somehow made their relationship work. 

Both girls are extremely mischievous, agreeing on a plan to get their parents back together again. 

Hallie (the twin who stayed with her father) is much more of a tomboy, so she might suggest that a stroll (or sprint) through her dad's vineyard would be fun. A hike would also seem interesting, especially when followed by a breakfast buffet. 

Annie (the twin who stayed with her mother) might enjoy learning a language with her sister, or perhaps even horseback riding. 

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Though, they would both agree on gorging on Oreos smothered with peanut butter after a match of fencing. More than that, they understand that sisters have a special bond, something no one can ever break. No matter distance or difference in personality, sisters have an invisible string that ties them together.

Hocus Pocus

I love this movie.

Hocus Pocus will ALWAYS hold a special place in my twisted lil' soul. There was something about it, maybe the familial love between Max and Dani, Binx's story arc, or even the way the Sanderson Sisters played off one another. Their chemistry is just TOO perfect and they ended up creating hilarious situations.

Winnie, the leader of the three, is much more dramatic, so I'd think she'd like to spend time doing something over-the-top, something that requires children's suffering. Eh. Maybe don't do anything Winnie would do.

Mary (the sister in red) is much more caring than her other sisters, and would probably suggest they decide on something calming, maybe mediation or a relaxing sip of a child's youth.

Sarah (the most air-headed of the three) loves to sing, so she'd serenade her sisters with her siren's song then perhaps have them dance around a black-flame bonfire. 

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All three have their own... unique way of spending their time, but what they all know is that you should embrace your weirdness. Sisters are one of the few people who can truly understand all your odd jokes and hobbies. 

My Neighbor Totoro

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Totoro is one of those classics you can't help but watch again and again, and part of the reason why is because of the two sisters, Satsuki and Mei, and their many lovely adventures (Totoro big or soot spirit small adventures, at that).

Satsuki is the big sister, and is therefore much more protective and a little more responsible. She might suggest cartwheeling while in the garden or racing her younger sister while shining the floors.

Mei (the younger of the two) is sweet and innocent, and is a ball of tumbling energy. She would be up for anything that requires running around or fun and games. Riding the catbus is always a must.

Protect each other. No matter what.

What's most important for these two is that Satsuki and her little sister Mei are there for one another through thick and thin, whether they're adjusting to a new home, a family illness, or standing at a catbus stop and stumbling upon an ancient forest spirit. What's most important is that they’re there for one another.

Whether you live under the same roof as your sister or live a thousand miles away from her, make sure you wish her a Happy National Sisters' Day

Who are your fandom favorite sisters?

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Animazing: Favorite Animated Movies Part 2

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Animation isn't just for children, and thinking as such can be unfair to the industry. Besides, if you completely dismiss animated films because "they're for kids," you are missing out on some of the best stories the human race can offer, told in a gorgeous medium.

Continuing from my last post Animazing: Favorite Animated Movies Part 1, I've come up with a few more additions. As mentioned previously, I thought it would be a good idea to list a few of my favorites to bring some much needed attention to these sensational movies.

Studio Ghibli Animation

My Favorite: Howl’s Moving Castle

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The music, the animation, the voice acting, the characters, the magic system, the themes, the fact that it was based off of a fantasy book...every little thing about this movie is excellent.

The music is grand, sweeping and has a firm grasp on your emotions. The animation, just like all Studio Ghibli films, is gorgeously detailed and realized. Everything is given the utmost attention, from the almost anthropomorphic magic system to even the background, which a lot of animators don’t bother too much with. The magic in this movie is alive and becomes a character of its own, and even blends well metaphorically with the themes of love conquering all and characters finding the strength to change and grow.

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But above all, the characters are engrossing and colorful (both figuratively and literally). Calcifer can’t help but steal the spotlight, especially when he’s voiced by Billy Crystal, and Sophie is amazingly brave and feisty. But, gosh, is Howl a real character. Both Sophie and Howl’s character arcs are masterfully done. We see Sophie transform from a timid girl to a strong-willed young woman and see the same with Howl, who transitions from spoiled and vain to empathetic and considerate. He becomes a person who refuses to run away from his problems.

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Howl: I feel terrible, like there's a weight on my chest.
Young Sophie: A heart's a heavy burden.

Gorgeous and heartfelt, Howl's Moving Castle is a must-see!

Honorary Mention: Spirited Away

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My sister and I used to watch Spirited Away when I was a teenager. From the moment we saw the darn thing, we couldn't get enough. It was our third Studio Ghibli movie (Kiki’s Delivery Service being the first), and we embraced the beauty and world that it conjured. What’s truly fascinating is that this movie makes you want to share it with others. It ultimately brings people together. It also gives a Westerner like myself insight into Japanese traditions and customs, and this was perfect timing because it was right around the period when I truly started getting into manga and anime. I could understand not only the stories but the country they came from.

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I also remember that my sister and I would mimic the part where No-Face tries to offer Chihiro gold (you know, the pieces he produces) and makes that “ah, ah” sound. We would go around and push our hands at each other, imitating his voice.

But this movie is more than laughs, it's heartfelt and emotionally complex.

Chihiro: For some reason, I can remember Haku... from a long time ago... but I thought I never met him before!
Zeniba: Oh, that's a wonderful place to start! Once you meet someone, you never really forget them.

This movie has it all, and every aspect should be appreciated.

Don Bluth Movies
My Favorite: Anastasia

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I might have been six or seven when Anastasia first came out, but still, to this day, I can recite all the words to all the songs. Anya had all the spunk and strength that little girls needed to see. What was truly inspiring was that Anya never wanted fame or money, she just wanted a family, from start to finish. She was strong and knew what she wanted from life. Though Dimitri and Vladimir were at first just in it for the glory and money, they too gave up the con in the end. In fact, we see an epic character arc when it came to Dimitri.

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Before and even after said character arc, the banter between Anya and Dimitri is downright entertaining.

Anastasia: Do you really think I'm royalty?
Dimitri: You know I do!
Anastasia: Then stop bossing me around!

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Not only is the story great, but the animation is superb, the music is lovely, and the humor is on par. It was definitely made with love! Even better, Anastasia is coming to Broadway in July and that should give you some idea about the story's excellence.

(Side note: Bartok is awesome.)

Honorary Mention: Thumbelina

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I can’t help but think of my mother belting “Tttthummmballinaaaaa” just like that chicken in the beginning. This movie covers it all: love, despair, adventure, but mostly hope.

Thumbelina: I wish I had wings.
Prince Cornelius: Maybe someday you will.

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Again, the animation is stunning and the songs are catchy. We have a charming cast of characters that you can't help but appreciate. Besides all that, the theme of Thumbelina (staying steadfast to your dreams and knowing anything could happen) is threaded throughout. There are several times in the movie where you think, “huh, this wasn’t supposed to happen” and “gee, this keeps getting worse and worse” but yet, Thumbelina keeps on believing and pushing forward. What a great message. Never give up because "nothing is impossible".

Warner Brothers Studios
My Favorite: Quest for Camelot

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I’ve always been a sucker for fantasy that surrounds the legend of King Arthur, so it’s no surprise that Quest for Camelot is one of my favorite animated movies. It has a strong female lead, fantastic songs, magic, a talking chicken/axe hybrid, dragons, and much more. Not to mention, it also has tons of references to Celtic mythology and culture in the movie, which is always welcome in my book.

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King Arthur: You have reminded us that the strength of a kingdom is not based on the strength of the king, but on the strength of its people.

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As in any quest, the dynamic between all characters is important. The quest isn't about the end result but the journey, and Quest for Camelot makes that known. The crew, at first, have their differences, but as they trudge on, they begin to understand each other and learn from one another. It’s absolutely heartwarming.

Honorary Mention: Cats Don’t Dance

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I kind of want to say that Cats Don't Dance may tie with Quest for Camelot, but I've committed to naming one winner, so I chose the latter. It’s no secret that I adore Broadway. I’ve always had a thing for musicals. But this jazzy, colorful explosion of awesome is a movie about animals who just want a chance to not only dance but prove themselves. What’s interesting about this movie is that it’s set in Hollywood in the late 1930s, the golden age of films and musical exploration. So it’s no wonder that the music is rife with voice talent and complex musical scores. The picture is brilliantly colorful and the animation is masterfully drawn, so fluid and nicely done.

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This movie is about the pursuit of dreams, the failure that accompanies them, and the drive to accomplish what you've set out to do. It's about the realization that dreams may not come easily and that sometimes you have to hold onto that dream and exhibit tenacity in the face of adversity and discrimination, to be truly successful.

T.W.: [frantically searching through fortunes] They can break your cookie, but... you'll always have your fortune.

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There will never be a time that I won't watch animation. Whether you want to say that's childish or charming, it won't matter because I know that animated films will continue to draw me in, with their lovely attention to detail, their (usual) mastery of music, their artistic quality, and the messages they leave behind. Besides, what's wrong with keeping some childlike wonder?

Do you agree with my list? Let me know below.

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Animazing: Favorite Animated Movies Part 1

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There has never been a time in my life when I didn't watch animation, no matter what form it took. Whether it was hand drawn or CGI, I've always respected the skill and dedication it takes to make an animated film possible. In fact, I still wonder if I should become a librarian for Disney. I could have helped the imagineers by sifting through concept art or repairing ancient Disney films. I guess there's still time, though. 

However, there are tons of work that can be just as gorgeous and grade A as Disney. Thus, I've decided to list my favorite animated films below, starting with Disney of course.

Disney Animation My Favorite: The Lion King

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When I was younger, I LOVED The Lion King (okay, I still do). I had magnetic Nala and Simba dolls that when held close to together, kissed. I also had tons of Lion King books, and I even insisted on seeing The Lion King several times in theaters.

What truly makes this movie great in my opinion is the message behind it: Remember who you are, push forward in spite of life's trials, know that you don’t need to stress about every little thing, and understand that friendship and love are monumentally important.

The Lion King also held a special kind of truth. A hard truth that touches both young and old.

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Young Simba: Dad?
Mufasa: Hmm?
Young Simba: We're pals, right?
Mufasa: Right.
Young Simba: And we'll always be together, right?
Mufasa: Simba, let me tell you something my father told me. Look at the stars. The great kings of the past look down on us from those stars.
Young Simba: Really?
Mufasa: Yes. So whenever you feel alone, just remember that those kings will always be there to guide you. And so will I.

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The Lion King teaches us that people aren’t going to be around forever. Sometimes, bad things happen and life goes on and you feel lost, alone, scared, unsure. But whenever that happens, look within yourself, know that the ones you’ve loved and lost are always within you. Draw strength from that. To this day, I can't help but remember what this movie has taught me.

Honorary Mention: Aladdin

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I’m torn. At first, I was inclined to chose Beauty and the Beast, but ultimately, I'd have to go with Aladdin, just because I distinctly remember having and obsessing over all the Aladdin movies at a very young age. Heck, the first movie was absolute magic! The second movie... eh, not so much. The third was intriguing though! I mean, Aladdin's father? Count me in. Plus, there was an Aladdin Disney Channel show that took Agrabah to a whole new level. The characters had time to develop into something more!

Dreamworks Animation  My Favorite: Rise of the Guardians

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This movie should have been a spectacular hit and should have received a sequel buuuttt, unfortunately, it’s looking like poor promotion and a terribly timed release date just couldn't make that possible. (Dreamworks...WHY!!!!)

The animation style is a lot different from the other Dreamworks movies because it pulled a lot from anime (maybe that’s part of the reason why I like this so much). The creators also put careful thought and consideration into the characters. That’s why I thought this was going to be bigger. The fight scenes, the gorgeous animation, the voice cast, the emotional roller coaster, the hinting at a much grander adventure, everything pointed to success.

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Jamie Bennett: What if we stop believing in you?
Jack Frost: Hey, slow down, slow down! Are you telling me to stop believing in the moon when the sun comes up?
Jamie Bennett: No.
Jack Frost: Well, do you stop believing in the sun when the clouds block it out?
Jamie Bennett: No.
Jack Frost: We'll always be there, Jamie. And now, we'll always be here.
[points to Jamie's heart]
Jack Frost: Which kind of makes you a Guardian too.

C-can we have a Rise of the Guardians sequel rather than a 10th Minions movie or a Cars 5 (or whatever it's up to now)?

Honorary Mention: Sinbad

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This is another movie that should have been better received than it was. (I almost put How to Train Your Dragon but just couldn't. I mean, come on! It's Sinbad.) Maybe we would have gotten a sequel (or prequel... I would have been satisfied with a prequel) if everything had been promoted right. 

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The hand drawn animation was fluid, fun, and just freakin' pretty. It was exceptionally nice when the characters moved, and spoke, and showed emotion. Plus, Sinbad, in and of himself, was enough to make the movie. And the humor (ohhhhh the humor) was perfectly timed and lovingly executed.

Pixar Animation My favorite: The Incredibles

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The Incredibles is thought-provoking, action-packed, and heartfelt. It was the superhero flick BEFORE superhero flicks became extremely popular. (Does that make it hipster?) I loved how it had  a comic book feel to it. I also couldn't get enough of all those spectacular fight scenes and (most of all) I was captivated by the theme of the movie: family is everything. 

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Elastigirl: Then what? What is it?
Mr. Incredible: I'm not...
Elastigirl: Not what?
Mr. Incredible: Not... I'm not strong enough.
Elastigirl: Strong enough? And this will make you stronger?
Mr. Incredible: Yes. No!
Elastigirl: That's what this is? Some sort of work out?
Mr. Incredible: [shouts] I can't lose you again!
[calms down]
Mr. Incredible: I can't. Not again. I'm not s-strong enough.
Elastigirl: [kisses him] If we work together, you won't have to be.
Mr. Incredible: I don't know what will happen...
Elastigirl: Hey, c'mon. We're superheroes. What could happen?

I'm thrilled to say that The Incredibles 2 will be coming out soon(ish), so that's just one more thing to love about it.

Honorary Mention : Up

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Who doesn't love Up? The first 10 minutes of the movie made me cry, Doug is adorable, Kevin is too, and everything on the screen is storytelling gold. Pixar really outdid themselves. Here we have a movie that's about lost dreams but also about perseverance and hope.

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Animation isn't only for children. It's for the dreamers, the adventures, the artists, the lovers, the entire family (heck, anyone really). Because animation isn't just for entertainment, though it's good for that too, it's also a medium that breaths life into a story, and with that story comes lessons in understanding the human condition. It has the ability to make us feel something deep. It helps us know that not everything is as simple as it seems, that criminals aren't necessarily bad people, that life is full of death but is also full of life, and that our childhood wonder should never leave us.

What are your favorite animated movies?

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Why You Should Watch Voltron Legendary Defender

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Why the quiznak should I even watch this? 

Because it’s an epic adventure about five teenagers fighting in robotic space lions. I mean, what more could you ask for? Plus, if you enjoyed Avatar the Last Airbender’s humor, then you’re going to love Voltron’s. It has a similar way of balancing its comical moments with its serious ones. It's also gorgeous and is very similar to Legend of Korra's animation (which isn't a surprise since the people who animated Korra headed this project). Even the music is perfect. If you don't believe me, just listen to the Legendary Defender's theme song. 

Wasn't Voltron originally a 1980's animated TV series?

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Yes! It was. But Voltron: Legendary Defender is a Netflix reboot of Voltron: Defender of the Universe. The show surprisingly kept quite a bit of the original's details. The VLD Voltron transformation mirrors VDOU. The reboot also keeps the VDOU cast's weapons and (similar) suit designs. Additionally, it's loaded with mecha anime Easter Eggs. 

The Crew

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The five teenagers mentioned above are actually legendary protectors called Paladins. The Paladins are warriors who pilot mecha-lions that form Voltron in order to protect the universe. The most important aspect of the original Voltron was its focus on teamwork. This theme was carried over to VLD nicely. Friendship and teamwork are so important in this show, that it led me to write about all the awesome characters. 

Shiro: Black Lion Pilot

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Shiro possess a natural ability to lead and always keeps a level head. He is frequently guiding the other Paladins and helping them grow. As leader, decisiveness comes easy for Shiro. He is usually the one to come up with strategic plans. He easily picks up on things, like when he was the first to fly his lion blind.

What I love about Shiro: Without a doubt, my favorite aspect about Shiro can be summed up in two words: Space Dad. It's a name that the fandom has fondly bestowed upon him, and it rings true! Shiro is someone the team can rely on. 

Ah, space dad.

Keith: Red Lion Pilot

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Keith is the wild child of the group. Unpredictable and emotional, he's usually the one who takes the biggest risks. But by relying on his instincts, he's able to react quickly and efficiently, especially when piloting the temperamental Red Lion. Even if he is erratic, he's eager to learn and cares about improving not just himself but the entire universe.

What I love about Keith: Keith is a bundle of emotions. Though he acts on instincts, it's all for the greater good. His intentions are pure and just, and I can't help but love his spirit and dedication to his friends. (He's my favorite!)

Look at that animation!

Hunk: Yellow Lion Pilot

Aww, dat face.

Hunk is a big ol' teddy bear. He's caring, understanding, and kind. One can't help but notice that his heart is just a mushy mess of feels. Beyond his obvious physical strength, Hunk possess strength of heart, especially when it comes to his friends. He's also a brilliant cook and is constantly perfecting alien goo (not just anyone can do that).

Why I love Hunk: His friendly personality. He's so quick to kindness and hesitates when faced with violence. You don't see that a lot in main characters. It is quite interesting to see how he keeps the team grounded and focused.

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Pidge: Green Lion Pilot

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Pidge is both intelligent and daring. Ever curious, Pidge constantly has to learn more about the workings of things (especially technology) and is constantly improving the castle's machines and vehicles. A true introvert, Pidge takes a while to warm up to people and needs space to recharge.

Why I love Pidge: The amount of spunk packed into that little body is unbelievable! Both brilliant and physically capable, Pidge consistently proves time and again not to underestimate the "little guy".

Hehehe

Lance: Blue Lion Pilot

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Lance provides hilarious one liners and rapid fire comic relief. He's arrogant and oftentimes views himself as a lady's man (*ahem* he's not). I mean, he even tried to pick up Princess Allura the first time they met...it didn't work. But beyond his overconfident attitude, Lance is friendly, adventurous and downright brave, and we get a sense that (deep down) he's sensitive.

Why I love Lance: His comedic timing. Most things Lance says or does make me laugh out loud. And his rivalry with Keith is both hysterical and intriguing! His sporadically timed gibes at Keith are too funny not to laugh at.

*Face palm*

Princess Allura: Castle of Lions' Commander

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As a princess of Altea, Allura has been raised to be strong-willed, diplomatic, and level-headed. Because of this, she oftentimes has a serious personality (perfect for whipping the team into shape), but she can also be quite playful at times. It's such a delight to see her relax and enjoy herself. Her ultimate goal is peace for all, and she will do anything to fulfill that dream.

Why I love Allura: Far from your typical princess, Allura is one of the strongest characters. Most of her kingdom (her race) has been killed and yet she refuses to lose hope. Instead, she makes it her mission to free all those under the Galra empire's control.

Princess Badass

Coran: Castle of Lions' Helmsman 

I love this series!

Coran is (hands down) the silliest of the bunch. (Sorry, Lance.) But, though he is goofy at times, make no mistake, he has years of experience serving the Altean royal family. He takes pride in his customs and oftentimes pushes his traditions onto the Paladins. Though, he's so capricious that sometimes I'm not sure when to take him seriously.

Why I love Coran: His unpredictable behavior makes it for me. He can be serious and knowledgeable one moment and then absolutely amusing the next. He too has made me laugh uncontrollably.

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Voltron: Legendary Defender is teeming with impressive action sequences, breathtaking animation, and astounding storytelling, but what makes this series shine lies at its heart--the characters. This colorful cast is individually interesting but is just as compelling as a group. These characters form more than Voltron, they form a family. And Hunk couldn't have put it better:

“I realized when we were in Voltron … we’re brothers, man. You know? We’re totally connected. No secrets, no barriers, no nothing. Brothers, all the way.”

Bros for life

Have you seen Voltron: Legendary Defender? How does it compare to the original Voltron?

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