Like This? Try That: The CW Superhero Edition

Some days, the fangirl life can be tough. Your favorite TV show goes on summer hiatus, you have to wait an entire year to read the next installment in a new book series, you've watched Lord of the Rings three times in a row and still can't believe there aren't any more movies coming. So what should you do during this time of waiting? Find a new fandom to love, of course! There are an endless supply of fandoms out there, but you just need to figure out what you like. That's where I come in. "Like This? Try That" is a new way to share similar recommendations for popular TV shows, genre book series, your favorite movie franchises, or any type of fandom you love.

Since the CW superhero shows are on hiatus until the end of April, I thought I'd spotlight a few shows similar to the ones I've come to love on the CW. If you watch Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl, or Legends of Tomorrow and you're looking for something new to experience, check out these recommendations!

If you like Arrow, try Daredevil

(source) (source)

Maybe it's breaching some kind of golden rule to recommend a Marvel show for DC fans, but I like to think you can be in both fandoms without having to choose sides. That being said, when Daredevil first released on Netflix, I saw a lot of people comparing it to Arrow (Stephen Amell even made a comment about it). For good reason. Arrow and Daredevil share several similarities, most importantly a main character without superpowers who has a personal vendetta to save his city. From the Green Arrow suit to the Daredevil suit to the darker tones and more realistic and serious portrayals to dealing with mob bosses and drug dealers, these shows go hand-in-hand with depicting the darker, grittier side of the superhero universes. While Arrow is rated TV-14, Daredevil is rated TV-M, so it does go a step further with the gritty violence of the big city underworld. If you're a fan of Arrow, you might want to give Daredevil a shot.

If you like The Flash, try Smallville

(source) (source)

Smallville was the first superhero show on the CW, which paved the way for the lineup we have today. Still, I think it's worth watching--at least most of it--if you're a fan of The Flash. The main storylines are similar: a guy with incredible super powers tries to save the world and live a normal life. Clark and Barry both have super powers that they use to help people; they both have big hearts and they personally carry the world on their shoulders. They encounter all types of crazy things from aliens to other meta-humans. They're surrounded by a great group of people who help them in their journey to becoming a hero. They struggle with romantic relationships, parental relationships, and friendships. The shows follow similar paths, maybe with different aspects, but they're both pretty standard superhero shows. I think if you like The Flash, you'll enjoy Smallville just as much. Plus, a different version of Barry Allen makes an appearance here and there in Smallville as well.

If you like Supergirl, try Agent Carter

(source) (source)

There aren't a lot of solo female superhero shows out there yet, and there aren't many with the optimistic, morally upright, do-the-right-thing-just-because main character like Kara Danvers. Agent Carter, however, is one of these shows. While Peggy Carter doesn't have superpowers, she has determination, confidence, and intelligence--traits Kara also possesses. Both of these stunning leading ladies do their best to help save those around them and the world. While Agent Carter is set during the 1950s, I think the feminist themes and strong female characters will appeal to fans of Supergirl. In addition, both main characters wear red and blue, encounter bizarre things from aliens to weird portals to meta-humans, and are stuck in awkward romantic relationships and love triangles. All in all, if you like Supergirl for Kara's character and the strong female role models, Agent Carter is right up your alley.

If you like Legends of Tomorrow, try Doctor Who

(source) (source)

What show involves time-travel adventures, hilarious jokes, a large cast of characters that come and go, John Barrowman, and Arthur Darvill? That's right folks, Legends of Tomorrow. But also Doctor Who. If you like Legends of Tomorrow for the fun time travel and the characters, I have no doubt you'll enjoy Doctor Who for its fun time travel and characters. Both shows follow a ragtag group that jumps from time to place in order to accomplish some kind of goal or stop some kind of evil from ripping the universe apart. Both shows incorporate a lot of humor and have a large cast of characters, which sometimes changes from season to season. Plus, John Barrowman and Arthur Darvill star in both shows. I'd say that fans of Legends of Tomorrow would definitely enjoy Doctor Who.

Do you agree with these recommendations? What other fandoms would CW superhero fans enjoy?

Continue Reading →

Doctor Who Christmas Special Reaction: "The Return of Doctor Mysterio"

It's been a whole year since we had a Doctor Who episode, which is frankly sad and definitely disappointing. But alas, the Doctor is back for yet another exciting adventure involving wacky Doctor shenanigans (of course), creepy brains and creepy surgeons (run away!), and... superheroes (*cue dramatic music*). Basically, it was a typical yet fun Doctor Who Christmas special! Spoilers included.

Synopsis: When a brain-swapping alien prepares to attack New York City, the Doctor teams up with a investigative reporter and a masked superhero known as the Ghost to stop the invasion. But who is behind the mask?

(source)

What I Liked

The Doctor
Of course, my favorite part of any Doctor Who episode is the Doctor and his interactions with the other characters. Peter Capaldi continues to inhabit the Doctor with his own whimsical and wacky habits and shenanigans. I love it. I mean, at one point he was eating sushi while spying on the creepy guys. Classic. This episode in particular was touching because the Doctor spends most of it with a boy named Grant. There's just something about the Doctor interacting with children that I adore. He can speak to them on another level, and they understand him much better than adults. Most of their conversation was about superheroes and comic books, so it was insanely adorable. And Grant thought the Doctor was a real doctor, so he swallowed the weird rock/gem/space thing and got super powers! It was exciting. Plus, the Doctor kept tabs on Grant throughout his life, instead of abandoning him, and it was just so fun to watch. I love you with both of my hearts, Doctor.

(Easily the best conversation of the episode.--source)

Grant/The Ghost
It came as no surprise that the mysteriously clad superhero of New York City, The Ghost, was actually Grant. I mean, we watched a kid get superpowers and now there's a grown-up superhero running around? Duh. But I loved older Grant just as much as I loved younger Grant. Despite the very stereotypical superhero lifestyle he lives, Grant was still complex. First off, he's a nanny. Which is absolutely perfect. I mean, have you ever heard of a nanny superhero? It was hilarious. Second, he's in love with the mother of the baby he nannies. Which is even more perfect--and squishy. He also has a big heart and wants to help people, which is what I love the most. He's pretty adept at juggling his nanny lifestyle and sweeping journalists off their feet. A+

Brock: One hostage? Isn't there a child downstairs?
Grant: Nobody touches that child.
Brock: And who are you?
Grant: I'm the nanny. 

(That robe though.--source)

Lucy
Lucy is an investigative reporter also trying to balance her home life and her work life. Thus, she needs a nanny. Just like with Grant, Lucy fills a common superhero trope (the damsel in distress/love interest), but she's also complex and holds her own. First off, she's a mother. Now, I don't know about you, but there aren't a whole lot of kick-butt journalists in the comic book world that have to handle a baby at home too. She rocks. Second, her husband ran off after the baby was born, which means she's not only a kick-butt journalist juggling home life, but she's doing it all as a single mother. That takes courage and strength. So even though she has to be rescued by the Ghost and some of her character arc is driven by love, she's still pretty cool. And come on, I loved the cheesy story line where she realizes that her ideal man isn't the strapping, heroic Ghost, but the glasses-wearing, sweet guy who babysits her baby. It was adorable.

(She's fabulous.--source)

Tomiwa Edun
I'm so happy to see him in this episode. It's been so long since I said goodbye to Merlin and Sir Elyan. I miss your face, sir. Your gorgeous, Knights-of-the-Round-Table face. Thank you for gracing us with your presence in this episode. You did great.

(Even if your face was cut in half by creepy brain surgeon aliens.--source)

Stereotypical superhero tropes
For once, I absolutely loved all the superhero tropes in this episode. It was funny and cliché on purpose, mimicking the Superman movies of the 70s and 80s, and it worked. It made me happy. I mean, of course the Ghost can fly and he has super-strength and x-ray vision. Of course there's an alien invasion. And of course the lead female is a journalist. It just works that way, and a part of me is sentimental to the "Superman" stereotype. It's the story that made me fall in love with superheroes first. (*wipes eyes*)

(Cheese everywhere.--source)

Alien invasion
It wouldn't be Christmas on Doctor Who without a good ole alien invasion. And for once, these aliens were pretty smart. And super creepy. There were creepy brains with creepy eyes that used creepy surgeons to "hijack" bodies to take over. Creeeepy. Their plan was to hijack world leaders, so when the invasion began, they could be in control of all the countries. That's pretty good. Good job, creepy brain aliens.

(Even the Doctor admits it.--source)

What I Didn't Like

The Doctor's sadness
Throughout the episode, despite the fun and excitement, there was still a dark cloud hanging over the Doctor. The last we saw him, he had to say goodbye to River... for good. Her next adventure would take her to the library where she dies. And the weight of that was hanging over him. It made both of my hearts hurt for him. It's just so sad, and he loves her so much, and I'm so glad we got to see River with Capaldi's Doctor. But it still hurts. (I'm not crying, you're crying. I'm definitely crying.)

The Doctor: "Things end. That’s all. Everything ends. And it’s always sad. But everything begins again too, and that’s always happy. Be happy. I'll take care of the rest."

Creepy brains
Okay, but the creepy brain aliens were creepy, okay? Did not like. It was a great plot idea, but it was creepy. No. Get out. Go away. Don't come back. Bye.

(Creepy surgeons are creepy.--source)

It wasn't about Christmas
This episode wasn't really about Christmas, not in the way past Christmas specials have been. At the very beginning young Grant thinks the Doctor is Santa for about half a minute. (Then he thinks he's an actual doctor. It's a good thing you're cute, Grant.) But other than that, I don't recall anything Christmas-y. No snow (or fake snow). No evil Santas or killer Christmas trees. Plus, if they're in New York on Christmas, they would need to wear warmer clothes, I'd think. *shrugs*

Young Grant: Mom says you can come in. You're expected.
Doctor: Expected? Argh! Sorry, did you say I was expected?
Young Grant: Yeah.
Doctor: Who did you say I was?
Young Grant: I told her I saw an old guy at the window.
Doctor: Ho-ho-ho-ho. Merry Christmas, Grant! 

New companion
I was hoping this episode would give us an introduction to the new companion, Bill. But it didn't. That was only slightly disappointing since they don't usually introduce new companions in the Christmas special. I'd forgive them for this, but I still have to wait until April for the next episode after I just waited an entire year. Geez. It's like waiting for Sherlock at this point. (And we were stuck with this bozo as the companion. Sheesh.)

(Perfect.--source)

Overall, the episode returned us to the fun, zany adventures of the Doctor. I'm grateful for this episode even though it wasn't spectacular and it was full of cheese and cliché. Sometimes I miss just having fun with the Doctor instead of having a big, looming threat to save the world/galaxy/universe and deep, dark story lines that shroud the whole season. Thank you, Christmas special, for restoring my faith and adoration for this show. You did good, Doctor.

What did you think of "The Return of Doctor Mysterio"? Are you excited for a new season of Doctor Who this year?

Continue Reading →

Fandom of the Month Club Unboxing: November 2016

Hello, everyone! This is the monthly segment Fandom of the Month Club Unboxing! Fandom of the Month Club is a mailing service where you pay a monthly subscription fee to receive a box full of geeky goodies. I've been subscribed since May, and I have received Sherlock, Lord of the Rings, Wizard of Oz, and Harry Potter, among others. All of it is exclusive to Fandom of the Month and is a surprise every time! This is a geek girl's dream.

This month's box is a special two year anniversary of Fandom of the Month Club box with a medley of geeky jewelry and it includes:

• 2 Year Anniversary Pouch
• J.K. Rowling Quote Magnet
• Jack Skellington Studs
• Geeky Charm Glass Locket Floating Necklace
• "Live Long and Prosper" Bracelet
• Hermione's Time Turner Key Chain
• J.K. Rowling Quote Paperweight

2 Year Anniversary Pouch:

The quote pouch has been a standard item in the boxes. The pouch is made of linen and is the perfect size to contain your fandom goodies, and it cinches shut to keep anything from falling out. This month, however, it is a special The Fandom of the Month Club 2 Year Anniversary pouch!

J.K. Rowling Quote Magnet:

This is a 3 1/2" by 2" magnet. It has a very endearing quote from J.K. Rowling: "I do believe something very magical can happen when you read a good book." This is quite a touching phrase, especially since the love of stories is why Fandom of the Month Club exists. This magnet is perfect for hanging pictures or important notes on your fridge or whiteboard. It has a glossy finish, which will protect it from water and stains.

Jack Skellington Studs:

Next, we have The Nightmare Before Christmas-themed studs! These are about the diameter of an American dime and are slightly domed. They would be perfect for Halloween or to give your Christmas outfit a bit of a spooky touch this year. The Nightmare Before Christmas isn't my favorite movie, so I don't know how often I'll wear these, but they are quite creative.

Geeky Charm Glass Locket Floating Necklace:

I have seen these necklaces for years, but I have never gotten one until now, mostly because the charms are too old or too young for me. This is the perfect geeky glass locket. It has Mickey Mouse, R2-D2, arrow, TARDIS, and lightning charms! They're super small and super cute. I adore them. The necklace is well-made with a magnetic lock to keep the charms safely inside. Love it!

Live Long and Prosper Bracelet:

This is my favorite item of this month's box. I've always wanted Star Trek jewelry and here it is! This bracelet is simple and sleek with one of the most iconic Star Trek quotes: "Live long and prosper." I squee-ed when I opened the box to find this. The only downside is the bracelet broke when I wore it the next day for Thanksgiving. I was just blending some whipped cream and then my cousin found the bracelet on the floor. I can fix it (because I make jewelry), but it was a bit disappointing to see a new piece of jewelry broken on the first day of wearing it.

Hermione's Time-Turner Key Chain:

I actually didn't know what this was, so I had to look it up, but regardless, this is an awesome piece. It's a very intricate keychain. I'd fear using it as a keychain because of the tiny hourglass. The device has beautiful markings and glittery sand inside the hourglass. On the sides is the quote:

"I mark the hours, every one, 
Nor have I yet outrun the Sun. 
My use and value, unto you, 
Are gauged by what you have to do.”

The writing is a bit difficult to photograph.

It took me a while to discern the quote because of how it's structured on the sides of the Time-Turner. I ended up googling it to read the whole quote, but I think it's so cool to see the quote actually on the piece so creatively.

J.K. Rowling Quote Paperweight: 

Yet another endearing J.K. Rowling quote on this beautiful metal feather. It's such a pretty trinket. I love the texture and pattern of the feathers.

7 out of 10

I would have given this a higher rating if my bracelet hadn't broken and the Time-Turner quote was a bit easier to read, but this is still a fantastic box. Loved the items. It's my second favorite box I've ever received. If you want to subscribe to Fandom of the Month Club, you can on their website for $13 a month not including shipping (it costs me about $17 total including shipping). It's a worthwhile investment, and if you don't like the fandom, it's a great present!

Are you part of these fandoms? Which of these items is your favorite?

Continue Reading →

Fandom of the Month Club Unboxing: October 2016

Hello, everyone! This is the monthly segment Fandom of the Month Club Unboxing! Fandom of the Month Club is a mailing service where you pay a monthly subscription fee to receive a box full of geeky goodies. I've been subscribed since May, and I have received Sherlock, Lord of the Rings, Wizard of Oz, Harry Potter jewelry, and more. All of it is exclusive to Fandom of the Month and a surprise every time! This is a geek girl's dream.



The month's box is Doctor Who-themed and it includes:

• Quote Pouch 
• Clara Magnet 
• Tardis Jewel Studs 
• Gallifreyan Necklace 
• The Twelve Doctors Watch 

Quote Pouch:

The quote pouch has been a standard item in the boxes. It features an iron-on quote from Doctor Who. This pouch is made of linen and is the perfect size to contain your Fandom goodies, and it cinches shut to keep anything from falling out. Though I'm not a fan of pink personally, I love this quote.

Clara Magnet:

This is a 3 1/2" by 2" magnet. It's thin and has creative artwork of Clara Oswald with the quote: "Run ... run you clever boy ... and remember me." I love the fonts and their location on Clara's silhouette. It's so artistic! This is perfect for hanging pictures or important notes on your fridge or whiteboard. It has a glossy finish, which will protect it from water and stains.

Tardis Jewel Studs:

I love these studs. They are small and light, so they don't pull at the ears. They're metallic with tiny TARDIS blue and clear jewels to make them feminine.

My younger sister modeled for me this go around. Cheers for her! 

They're perfect for having double holes to wear with another set of earrings. I will certainly be wearing these with my Doctor Who t-shirt and tendril dangling earrings. These have to be my favorite thing in this month's box!

Gallifreyan Necklace:

I adore this necklace, which is the Doctor's name in Gallifreyan. It's so impressionistic and unusual. The pendent is about an inch and a half in length, and the chain is chest-length. You can flirt your geeky style subtly with this.

The Twelve Doctors Watch:

This is the crown jewel of this box. It is a working wristwatch with a faux leather band and a stainless steel back. I love the intricacy of it. Having the twelve doctors as the twelve hours is clever. And I love the TARDIS being in the center.

As evident from the pictures, you can see that the watch is a little large, but it's still very fashionable and feminine, though I could see this passing as a man's watch as well. I will definitely be enjoying the ten o'clock hour every time I wear this watch.

8 out of 10

This was a great box! 8 out of 10 rating. I will certainly be wearing all of these items. They're very much my style. The only one I didn't care for as much is the pink on the pouch, but that's a personal preference. If you want to subscribe to Fandom of the Month Club, you can on their website for $13 a month not including shipping (it costs me about $17 total including shipping). It's a worthwhile investment, and if you don't like the fandom, it's a great present!

Are you part of this fandom? Which of these items is your favorite?

Continue Reading →