Marching In

X as a Weapon

Mike Carey’s ongoing adjectiveless X-Men run has been exciting so far. I’m liking it, see, but I do have problems with Chris Bachalo’s art from time to time. I preferred his style back in the ‘90s, during his first year or so of Generation X. Now, I dunno, his figures seem to be extra-cartoony and the shapes of figures are hard to distinguish sometimes. So that really keeps me from enjoying and appreciating the story. He still does certain pinup shots well, though, as this particular panel shows:

Anyway, I love this lineup. Rogue’s the leader, and this strike force isn’t tasked with teaching at the Xavier Institute. It’s an interesting, diverse mix with Cable, Cannonball, Mystique, Iceman, Lady Mastermind, Karima Shapandar, and Sabretooth. I’m really not into the idea of having unrepentant villains coerced into service, as in the Thunderbolts post-Civil War, but somehow, Sabretooth as the team’s loose cannon feels more naturally done. Also, as many on it can be counted as reformed villains or have different backgrounds, it’s good to see that this team’s fighting approach is different from the other X-teams’.

I do hope that there’d be really memorable villains in the coming issues (the Children of the Vault and Pandemic characters were just okay), and that Carey’s promising team lasts for some time. May this tough X-group's adventures be bigger and illustrated better.

Zack Snyder!

Oh, here’s my article on filmmaker Zack Snyder, published last Saturday (thank you editors!). I did that phoner about a month back, shortly after watching 300 (thank you Warner publicists!). That interview went well. The guy sounded energetic from the start; instead of just saying “hello,” his first words were a loud “Zack Snyder!!!” So that was smooth from the get-go. He did a great job on Frank Miller’s work, and he’s now doing Alan Moore’s Watchmen, too, so let’s all cross our fingers.

300 opens today in the Philippines, I believe.

Like Toy Soldiers

Was able to get some of the Marvel Legends/X-Men/Spidey figures I’ve been fancying for quite some time. I hope I can still find a Mad Jack or Toxin figure though. Or a white costume repaint of Storm. But, yeah, am quite happy with what I have right now.

One thing I wasn’t too satisfied with, however, was the Iron Man-Mandarin Face-Off set. It took some time to get a decently painted one, because many were disappointingly, shoddily done. And, once I opened the one I bought, I was kinda dismayed to discover that Mandarin wasn’t poseable, since he’s wearing a thick rubber robe. Yargh.

Oh, and the comic book? Iron Fist. The same that came with the Iron Fist figure in early 2006. Yeek.

Freedom Forever

LNA now at Comic Odyssey Galleria

Okay, it’s been a while since I plugged my stuff. I have reason to, right now.

Lexy, Nance & Argus: Sex, Gods, Rock & Roll is now at Comic Odyssey in Robinson’s Galleria. My thanks to Sandy Sansolis for letting me sell the comic book there. And thanks to Gerry Alanguilan for introducing me to him last week. Copies will be delivered to the Robinson’s Place (Malate) branch of Comic Odyssey by Wednesday, as well. I’ve been to the shops a few times, and I noticed that aside from being big stores, they’ve got a nice selection of titles and back issues, and good bargains on action figure sets. Go visit, and talk to the friendly guy and girl at the counter.

My book is also still being sold at Druid’s Keep in Gateway Centre (Magallanes), and Pride Exchange (Malate). Go grab a copy for yourself or a friend if you haven’t, yet.

Action Figure Hunter

Last January, I discovered that a Greenhills toy shop was selling the Wal-Mart exclusive Marvel Legends set at a considerably lower price compared to other hobby shops. I obsessed over it for a few weeks, and later decided, after much deliberation and computation, that I’d only get half of the 12-figure set. I couldn’t afford the entire thing even with the lower price tag, so I asked a fellow toy collector, old friend Ian O., to arrange a group-buy with other people from a local toy board. Luckily, Ian wanted to get three of the toys, and the remaining figures were bought by a guy named Al, who’s also knowledgeable on ML’s. Like Ian and myself, he's a little critical of certain action figures’ features (he wishes that the Wasp had translucent wings).

I’m quite happy with my haul. I wasn’t keen on building a Giant Man bonus figure anyway, as I already have the regular version of the character some time ago. So those that I really wanted, I finally got, like Sentry (finally, a Superman-level Avenger!), Warbird (one of my fave Marvel heroines), Kitty Pryde (which looks like Angelina Jolie), and Havok (in his classic costume with headgear), and to a lesser extent, the "Age of Apocalypse" Sabretooth (the good guy Exiles member) and Weapon X (another Wolverine, but scaled just right). Yay! They’re worth the wait. I wish though, that Sabretooth’s teeth paint didn’t make it look like he had gaps between teeth, and that Weapon X’s uber-thick eyebrows looked better. Despite those imperfections, I’m really happy with the bunch.

The toy hunt doesn’t end there, though. I’m looking out for some ML’s and other related toy lines because they suddenly became buy one-take one! I’m one excited toy geek. I waited for some of those to go on sale, and now they are. Woohoo! And, frack, I need money.

Civil War Finale Questions

Spoilers ahead!

My, that was disappointing. It took Captain America that long—seven issues—to realize that he’s not fighting for the interests of the common American anymore? It was perplexing, the way the main Civil War book didn’t mention important details, which happened off-title. But despite being a quick, jumpcut-y read, it still felt padded because of the weak resolution and squandered pinup pages. Cap’s surrender, while understandable because it was done to preserve lives and property, was executed rather unconvincingly. So, questions:

Why was Namor shown only once, and was never seen again? The poorly dressed, generic-looking new Champions had more panel time. And speaking of absences, where were Storm, Monica Rambeau, and Sentry? They’d have contributed significantly to the final battle, but all we got were the typical face-offs.

What was the point of resurrecting Captain Mar-Vell for this event, when his one-panel appearance didn’t show him doing anything important?

Why were the villains sicced on the heroes and left unwatched? Jeez. Brilliant idea, Iron Man.

Speaking of which, what exactly did Venom do to Cap? We don’t see any blow connecting in any way.

Why was Spider-Man wearing the black costume again?

If Bill foster was Tony and Hank’s friend, why was the murderous Thor clone-cyborg-LMD reactivated?

Why was Hank Pym Time’s “Man of the Year” and what exactly is his “global revolution”?

Why was there no mention whatsoever of the real villain in the Stanford tragedy? Nitro was in the town because he was placed there and power-augmented by someone from Damage Control, according to the Wolverine tie-ins.

Why keep the Negative Zone prison operational, when conditions there have forced one inmate (Digitek) to kill himself?

What are the other 41 ideas “for a safer world”? Was cloning dead superpowered friends one of them? Isn’t that unethical, and potentially dangerous to the world?

Anyway, Tony Stark’s side won, so, boo! Cap’s team was about the protection of the superhuman community’s civil liberties. Manipulative, lying Mr. Stark promises to protect the identities of his fellow costumed adventurers, but that didn’t work out too well for Peter Parker, did it? And SHIELD has most of the heroes’ secret ID’s, anyway. I hoped, when the first issue came out, that Stark would take over SHIELD, and he did just now, but it feels too late after the fascistic implementation of the registration act. Still, this new, more organized system of superheroing and regulated adventurism is worth looking into in Dan Slott’s upcoming The Initiative series. Slott knows his Marvel superheroes, and I hope that it’ll satisfy those who felt cheated by the CW ending.

Life is Bigger

Revolution Earth

I saw parts of the city where I live and other places I know on Google Earth a few days ago. It’s exciting and quite scary, since it gives you a very specific perspective--the top view of many cities--and you can quickly zoom onto locales from the skies, just like in the movies and TV shows. It was so cool to see areas near our house that I don’t know about, and places near my old schools that I used to frequent.

It’s amazing how those neatly arranged and diversely colored rooftops shelter different lives and dreams. From above, the communities look so peaceful. It doesn’t really show people, as we’re dot-scaled and virtually unseen. But in actuality, we’re mere meters away from others, just separated by walls, gates and streets. It’s easy to get a sense of that when you’re looking at the wide shots. It’s interesting, too, that those patches look so unrelated, but we all know that that’s the farthest thing from the truth. Man, just imagine the intersecting stories all over those maps.

Google Earth is all kinds of awesome.

I Wanna Be Cremated

I attended a funeral last Sunday afternoon. As I wasn’t close to the departed, my time there was spent observing and sitting through the rites quietly. It did make me think about my own life and some things I want to do and accomplish while I’m still here, among other things.

I'd rather have my remains cremated and put into a jar. I’m also okay with my ashes getting scattered someplace pretty, or at a place with sentimental value, actually. I’ve always preferred that, I think, not because I don’t want my decaying body to become worm food--I’m probably beyond caring by then—but I feel now that I’d rather have what’s left of my physical shell near those who care about me. I’m okay with being remembered by loved ones without them having to trek to the cemetery. Cemeteries are just way depressing. The cost of cremation, I hear, is normally cheaper than the usual casket funeral, too, so I guess I’ll go for that, instead.

It’s a Boy-Boy Thing

Ain’t they sweet. Teen couple Hulkling and Wiccan, from Marvel’s Young Avengers comic book, posed and photographed by Benedict. Wiccan is Scarlet Witch and Vision’s miracle child, while Hulking is the hybrid son of the Kree warrior Captain Mar-Vell and a Skrull princess. Hey, by the way, I’m wondering: just how long will Young Avengers be on hiatus, and when will volume two come out? Come on, Marvel, make it happen.

Party Like It’s 2099

Marvel Legacy: The 1990s Handbook was a good read. It’s the latest from the people behind the new Marvel Universe Handbooks, a one-shot comic book featuring profiles of select characters from the era distinctly remembered for the shoulder pads, gritted teeth, toughie codenames and massive weaponry. Image Comics-inspired art and coloring were all the rage, and many Marvel characters and titles at the time embraced a darker, but not necessarily a more mature tone. Those included, however, aren’t necessarily Liefeld-inspired characters.

It’s an interesting list, although there are those creations that look dated now. Some of them have yet to reappear. There’s Vengeance, Nightwatch, Lady Punisher, Blackwulf, Maxam, X-Treme, X-Men 2099, and so on. Maybe creators who adored them back then will make them feel fresh and contemporary.

I was half-expecting to see entries of the armored Captain America, Daredevil and Spider-Man, the bikini-clad Invisible Woman, and the jacket-wearing Avengers and New Warriors members, but they weren’t depicted. Maybe the updated Handbooks will devote space to them, since Storm’s new entry showed all of her previous costumes.

I liked that the cover sported the coloring style that evoked simple Photoshop effects. It also has a masthead that intentionally looks slightly retro, and a particular company logo that was used later in the decade. Also, it was funny that they included a Coolometer at the inside-back cover. “Bankruptcy,” of course, was at the “Uncool” end.

I emailed the Handbook people recently, and suggested that they include or update some characters. I listed about twenty or so characters, and writer Stuart Vandal generously replied. He detailed that some of those I mentioned are slated for appearances in future issues (Agatha Harkness will have an updated one in the Magic 2007 Handbook), or have already appeared in certain themed Handbooks. He added that each of the other characters will eventually have his or her entry, as long as the series continues.

Follow the Day

It’s been a typically busy week so I’m relaxing by catching up on some shows, as usual.

Mars Attack

Season two of Veronica Mars wasn’t as consistently entertaining as the first, but it’s still smart and endearing. A few season-long mysteries get resolved satisfyingly. I was shocked when long-forgotten arcs from the first season resurfaced and tied well to the heart-wrenching season ender. Some important characters have been written off the show, so it pretty much re-sets some relationship angles. I hope Veronica’s friend, the problem-solving techie Mac (Tina Majorino), becomes a regular cast member in the next season. Wow, they’re in college in the show’s third year. I wonder how different Veronica’s cases will be, and how her detective skills will be honed this time.

Basta, Veronica and Duncan forever.

Musings on Lyrics

I was able to catch the hilarious VH-1 special 40 Most Awesomely Bad Love Songs last week over at MTV. It had a few comedians commenting on some of the lyrical content of old and recent love songs, most of which have become hits in the US. The countdown list was a mix of guilty pleasures and those that fall under the “so bad, they’re good” category of songs, and it was interesting to hear what the comics had to say about the meaning or packaging of certain sappy ones.

Pleasant-sounding ballads like Oleta Adams’ “Get Here” weren’t spared. The commenters singled out that the lines “you can reach me by caravan/ cross the desert like an Arab man,” saying that it’s “racial profiling” in a song, and that it went too far by suggesting that the guy Oleta pertained to should “windsurf into my life.” Also mocked was The Jets’ “You Got It All,” as it’s a song that, according to the commentary, kept comparing the current boyfriend with the ex, among other things. Steve Perry’s popular “Oh Sherrie” was included, and some comedians wondered why the singer was yelling his lyrics (“You should’ve been gone!”). Other songs that made it were by boy bands, hair bands, and some ‘80s and ‘90s pop chart fixtures.

Super Jock Itch

I gave up on this show long ago, but I just had to see the “Justice” episode of Smallville. Clark “Boy Scout” Kent and Chloe “Watchtower” Sullivan team up with righteous pals Green Arrow, Aquaman, Impulse and Cyborg. Quite campy but fun. They got the guest actors who previously appeared as the characters, so there’s a cleft chin overload. I dunno if a live-action Justice League series in the works (I doubt it), but it was nice to see some of DC’s superheroes gather for an episode, even if they have a clichéd scene where they’re shown walking away, calmly, from an exploding building. Gawd.

Lost in Your Isles

I’ve seen about eight episodes of the first season of Lost. I dunno. It’s okay, but It’s not that exciting yet for me. I like that it has neat twists when it comes to the many characters’ back stories, though. I’m familiar with Matthew Fox, who played Charlie Salinger from the depressing but watchable ‘90s drama Party of Five. There’s also Dominic Monaghan, of course, an ex-Hobbit sidekick, and the actress who played the blonde villain girl from Roswell, whose name escapes me at the moment. It’s a nicely cast group of castaways and all, but I do hope that the story speeds up. I hope the truth behind the mysteries gets revealed before I lose interest, and that there’s a rewarding payoff after all this buildup. Maybe I’m just getting really impatient, but so far, the building-society-from-scratch thing isn’t bowling me over.

Gods Almighty

Beyonder versus Warlock, pencil drawing on vellum paper, Feb. 2007

After recently reading a boxful of borrowed Warlock and the Infinity Watch and related crossovers like Infinity War and Infinity Crusade, and finally reading old tie-ins to Secret Wars II, I was inspired to draw a meeting between the two main cosmic characters. Adam Warlock has been Jim Starlin’s Jesus-like figure, an artificially created being and hero, who sacrificed himself to save an Earth-like planet, was resurrected a few times, and ascended temporarily to godhood. Jim Shooter’s Secret Wars series introduced the all-powerful Beyonder, a being who sought to understand human desire and fulfillment. For a time, both were considered threats to the Marvel Universe’s different realities, and were opposed by its various heroes and entities.

I did this last Wednesday, after work. I chose to draw the Beyonder in the armor he wore in the Buscema-Avengers issues, as it looks way cooler that the casual jumpsuit he normally wore. Adam Warlock’s “God” mode only had one look, so I stuck with that. Warlock’s brief stint as omnipotent being and wielder of the Infinity Gauntlet was an interesting point in the character’s existence, as he pondered, like the Beyonder, what to do with the nearly limitless power. Unlike the Beyonder, though, Warlock didn’t have time to revel in his might, and divided the power among his chosen guardians.

They’re among Marvel’s most fleshed-out characters, and for a time, among the company’s more popular ones, which probably means that they’re being considered to have their own Marvel Legends figures someday (well, Baron Zemo and X-23 got immortalized in plastic first, so it’s hard to say if that’ll happen). Also, as the characters haven’t really met in the comics, I have this idea that, maybe, they actually have (they can do anything), or can still do so, what with retcons happening left and right in many titles. I think that it’d be a great meeting. They can try to eradicate each other from existence, and even have some pretty heated philosophical debates while they’re at it. This can so happen in the Exiles comic book.

No Mercy on the Battlefield

Early this week, I was able to attend a special preview of the Zack Snyder-directed 300, based on Frank Miller’s limited series. Awesome, awesome movie. I loved the moody, stylized look, the muted colors, and kickass battle sequences and character designs. Gerard Butler did a good job as Leonidas, leader of the 300 Spartan soldiers, as did Rodrigo Santoro, who played Xerxes, the conquering god-king to legions.

Thanks to the Warner people for that and the thick and pretty Art of 300 book, too. The movie opens March 7^th. I hope it stays uncut.

You Can Call Her Anything You Like…

…but her name is Veronica Mars. That’s a riff on a line off of Elvis Costello’s “Veronica” (‘cause I can’t think of any other appropriate song with the name Veronica in it). Veronica and Logan are in costume for an '80s-themed party in the pic above, so no, they don't normally dress that way.

I just finished watching the first season, and I must say that I’m really digging this show right now. It’s kind of filling the void that Buffy and then Alias left, in that the title character’s an independent, intrepid young woman, but it doesn’t have the fantastical, end-of-the-world elements that those two previous shows smartly cultivated. Its contemporary high school setting allows for resonant and realistic storylines, with a Nancy Drew-ish twist. So yeah, it’s also world-shaking, but on a different level altogether.

Spunky and resourceful Miss Mars (Kristen Bell), 17-year-old assistant to her private investigator dad, takes on cases big and small, from proving the innocence of the wrongly accused, to solving secret admirers’ identities. Each of her cases has interesting personal repercussions, and re-acquaints her, and consequently, her viewers, with the good, bad and fugly characters from school and beyond. Veronica can be equally lost as the people she helps at certain times, but her persistence at getting the truth often get her incontestably good results. She’s become an unsung hero to some, and a socially unacceptable weirdo to others. She’s been called names and bad-mouthed, picked on by the cool kids, and so on, but she knows how to retaliate.

I can relate to her because she’s the inquisitive outsider, and the show reminds me that I didn’t really fit with the cliques back then. I wish though, that I was just as skilled in wisecracking retorts all those years ago. That’s how affecting the series has been for me; it brings you back to the times when you wish you were wise and had the snappy comeback for the jerk classmate or some snarkass teachers. For those who sometimes wish they could go back to school and do things differently, they’ll find the show quite appealing, escapist, and even cathartic.

Veronica is that special character, that cleverly written girl who only wishes that things were normal, but she doesn’t stand idly by when things get crazy. She gets to the bottom of things, peer acceptance be damned.

Health Spazz

Early Thursday morning, I went to an interview assignment. I tried sleeping early the night prior, but after hours of just tossing and turning due to a toothache, I just decided to get rest when I get back. Felt a throbbing in my molar, but I was able to ignore it the time I was working. But my concern then was different, had to stay awake because I had to walk through a mall after the job to get a ride home.

It’s happened before; I stay awake for a day and I just shut down and get a big headache after. Was feeling woozy hours after I got home, so I took paracetamol, put vaporub on my temples and chest, and lied down to catch some z’s. I felt cold, then hot, and I would wake up wanting to pull my molar out with my fingers (which wasn’t really aching, but it feels like the nerves underneath got cold). I also tugged at my thickening would-be sideburns, a sign that I needed to get to the barber’s. I felt like throwing up for a time, but I couldn’t for some reason. I hate getting sick.

Spent Friday sleeping and recharging. Was able to enjoy some Hot and Crispy fried chicken, which I rarely eat, but it's strongly spiced and it registers on my then-dulled taste buds. And, boy, can that unclog your nose and make it run. Yeah.

So anyway, went to the barber shop when I felt better two days later, and ended up sporting a Prison Break-ish skinhead ‘do, because the razor-happy barber didn’t get what I was trying to say. Well, my head’s easier to wash, I know, and it’ll grow back, but that’s gonna be tedious. I had my head shaved ten years ago, and it took me time to grow it back to a style that I like, especially since my hairline's receding.

Not much happening lately. Weather in Manila’s nice and cold, and I lost the two pounds I gained during the holidays. Read some comics, a few of them unexpectedly bad (I’m looking at you, Civil War: The Return!). Watched 21 Grams, and for the second time since I saw it in 2000, Scream 3.

Oh yeah, speaking of Scream, I just remembered, I was able to phone-interview Timothy Olyphant (Broken Hearts Club, Scream 2, Go) for the paper about his Deadwood work a few weeks back. That was cool.

52 Picks Up

Gothamite lezzies Kate Kane and Renee Montoya

I’ve been reading DC Comics’ post-Infinite Crisis series 52, a weekly title that (woohoo!) doesn’t star the company’s big three—Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman—for a change. They still pop up every now and then but it’s generally focused on other characters, like the Question, Ralph Dibny (he’s powerless here), Booster Gold, Will Magnus, Black Adam, and Steel, to name a few. This yearlong series fills the gap between IC and the "One Year Later"-affected titles, and introduces new characters like Isis, Supernova, and a certain dark, er, knightess (more on her later).

It’s now on its thirtysomething-th week, a few of the arcs have been resolved, and some are fast reaching their conclusions. Written by top scribes Geoff Johns, Grant Morrison, Mark Waid and Keith Giffen—it’s hard to guess who wrote what, but the dialogue’s a giveaway sometimes—52 has its big dramatic moments and clever new mysteries. Spoilers ahead.

So far, some arcs have been enjoyable. The Black Marvel Family (Black Adam, Isis, Osiris, and their crocodile guy mascot) story has been intriguing, and it seems inevitable that this powerful new royal family will break up before the series ends. I don't know if they appeared in any of the OYL books. It feels like the team is headed for a tragic direction, and that's already begun with Osiris. I hope they survive, though. It’s doubtful, but one can hope.

Also, I find the Renee Montoya arc nicely handled. The lesbian ex-cop, a former alcoholic, is recruited by the Question, to look into Gotham City’s growing metahuman criminal activity. Batman’s away, but another caped crusader, Batwoman (conveniently Renee’s ex Kate Kane!), fills the void. It’s interesting that Renee’s being groomed to be a fighter—possibly a new Question?—as the "faceless" crimefighter is dying of lung cancer. She’s being trained by one of the DCU’s best martial artists, Richard Dragon. Can’t wait to see what the writers have in store for her.

Less than twenty issues to go.

L-lated

Speaking of, I’m digging the show The L Word, which is about a group of lesbian and bisexual women friends living in Los Angeles. My fave of the bunch is the Shane character (I dunno yet who plays her). She’s the deep-voiced, rocker-looking one. She’s unpretentious, and Brian Kinney-esque, promiscuity-wise, but she seems like a kind person, if the first five eps of season one are any indication.

Oh, Mia Kirshner (Mandy the bisexual assassin from 24) is a cast member too. She’s bi here too, but she’s sweet and conflicted. Her aspiring writer character's torn between two lovers, characters played by Eric Mabius and Karina Lombardo. Wow. ;)

Dust to Dust Bunnies

It’s almost February and my Christmas tree’s still up on the shelf. Hm, gotta put that away soon. Yeah, that means it’ll probably gather dust for about a week more.

Which reminds me, I finally read mystery writer Bob Ong’s absorbing, funny book about education, A B N K K B S N P L A Ko, two years after Peach Abubakar gave me a copy. She gave me another book two Christmases ago, also by the same author, I think, but I can’t find it. I’ve been rummaging through my stuff; I remember seeing it about two or so months ago. Gack, must buy another elcheapo plastic cabinet so I can re-organize and keep track of my things. Gotta go through the piles of paper clutter--brochures, reference material and old work-related notes and magazines—that have accumulated in the past few years.

Soon. Which probably means… whatever.

Super Soldier Seriousness

Two recent Marvel titles emphasize how no-nonsense or grim some of the company’s major superheroes have become. Well, extreme personality changes caused by wartime woes notwithstanding, reading their new adventures is still addictive. There’s more depth to many of them now, as heroism now in that universe seems extra-burdened with compromises and more unusual sacrifices.

Civil War # 6- the penultimate issue of Marvel’s big event, was just, well… okay. It’s noticeable that Steve McNiven’s art looks simpler this time, especially in the Namor-Sue Richards pages. Story-wise, a few important—and expected--things happen, and again, some splash pages, and those with big pinup pose-y panels, look squandered. You really aren’t getting a very detailed look at the War if you’re just picking this one title, and it’s a very quick read. I’m actually more excited for one of the series spinning off of this, which is Avengers: The Initiative by Dan Slott. Still, I’m hoping the final issue of CW next month will be a more substantial issue, as the future of Marvel’s heroes (and its comics titles) will finally be decided.

Real creative re-scripting of Civil War # 6 here, by the way. Heheh, nice plug by Monica Rambeau.

New Avengers: Illuminati # 1- surprisingly, it’s quite enjoyable. The secret team made up of Marvel hero leaders is shown doing something significant, finally, and this particular hidden adventure shows that Black Bolt can steal the show from this lineup of more popular powerhouses. Good unconventional superhero stuff by co-writers Bendis and Reed, and artist Cheung. Next issue will tackle the Infinity Gauntlet event, and I’m looking forward to how the retconned details fit into the bigger picture.

Celebration of Independents

Please support the Bagong Agos Film Festival, organized by the Independent Filmmakers Cooperative and Robinson’s Movieworld. The ongoing film fest is currently exhibiting the works of Jeffrey Jeturian, Lav Diaz, Khavn dela Cruz, Ditsy Carolino, Cris Pablo and many others at Robinson’s Galleria, until the 24^th of January. Contact the mall cinema numbers (they’re usually listed at the movies section of major dailies) for screening schedules.

Caught a Lightweight Lightningseed

Last week, I pulled out an old picture of Tori Amos, vellum paper, water color, gel pens, correction fluid and markers, and drew this semi-caricaturish interpretation of the singer-songwriter. Just had to get it outta the way, actually. Kept seeing this in my head. Well, not exactly like this, but I had this thought that her red hair was looking all swirly and I just had to put that on paper. Details, I added to the composition bit by bit, like the tiny wings (slightly inspired by the “Glory of the 80s” video) and background stuff. Posted this also at my art blog.

Ten Torific

Anyway, some defining or picturesque lines from some of my favorite lyrics. Just a few of the many stunning or surreal songs from Miss Amos’ first four albums:

Girls you’ve got to know when it’s time to turn the page, when you’re only wet because of the rain. (“Northern Lad”)

And when my hand touches myself, I can finally rest my head. And when they say “take of his body,” I think I’ll take from mine instead. (“Icicle”)

I almost ran over an angel. He had a nice big fat cigar. (“Leather”)

I am not you senorita. I am not from your tribe. If you want inside her well, boy you better make her raspberry swirl. (“Raspberry Swirl”)

What’s so amazing about really deep thoughts? Boy, you’d best pray that I bleed real soon. How’s that thought for you? (“Silent All These Years”)

Baker, baker, can you explain, if truly his heart was made of icing? And I wonder how mine could taste. Maybe we could change his mind. (“Baker Baker”)

I’ve been looking for a savior in these dirty streets, looking for a savior beneath these dirty sheets. (“Crucify”)

Hey, they found a body. Not sure it was his but still they’re using his name. (“Past the Mission”)

So you can make me cum. That doesn’t make you Jesus. (“Precious Things”)

Now I’ve got to worry ‘cause boy, you still look pretty when you’re putting the damage on. (“Putting the Damage On”)

Secret Identity Crises

Jennifer Garner as heroic superspy Sydney Bristow (pic from Yahoo TV)

Finished with the fifth season of Alias, finally. The show, created by JJ Abrams, has been an intelligently written, entertaining, and at times, a perplexing series. It explored recurring themes of duplicity, betrayal and heroism, and its many characters have mostly been multi-dimensional, flawed people with clear and strong obsessions. The good guys—the team composed of top CIA operative Sydney Bristow and her colleagues Jack, Marshall, Vaughn, Dixon, and later, Nadia, Tom, and Rachel—were especially interesting to follow. The villains usually weren’t just totally evil; they’re shown as people with their own frailties. But when they’re bad, they’re really merciless. Irina, Sark, Arvin Sloane, Gordon Dean, The Covenant, The Alliance, Prophet 5, and their numerous henchmen and henchwomen, have proven themselves a sharp contrast to the do-gooders.

While many episodes were good, there were times that storylines were stretched too thin, and the dialogue faltered every now and then. The scavenger hunt for artifacts created by the prophetic 15^th century scientist, Milo Rambaldi, was exciting until the third season, but by season four, every time that name is mentioned, I couldn’t help but roll my eyes. Still, the consistently careful treatment of Sydney and the other characters justified the ongoing adventures, and gave the lead spy a sense of destiny and prolonged purpose, because she tied heavily into Rambaldi’s “prophecies.” Season five cleared many things up, and gave some good enough resolutions to long-standing puzzles.

I noticed that Alias also has interesting story parallels to another TV heroine series, Buffy the Vampire Slayer. At certain points of their careers, the women adventurers were each called “the Chosen One.” Both series had traitorous female characters by season three. They also discovered sisters that they never knew existed. Sydney and Buffy eventually fought doubles of their friends, and themselves. For the ultimate benefit of humanity, they’ve formed uneasy alliances with their staunchest foes. By their show’s final seasons, both have advanced to the role of teacher, were handed special prophesied objects by old enigmatic figures, and witnessed amulets figure strongly into the final gambits. Sydney and Buffy, if they teamed up, they’d have some stories to share. There are major differences, though, like Sydney’s very complicated family ties, love interests, and the shows’ respective bittersweet endings. Ultimately, these women, and all the girl characters in them, kick ass. No hyperbole.

I hope there’ll be TV super-heroines like them again, and soon.

Children of the Atom, and Juggy

Charlie and the X-Gene Factory (pic by Benedict)

Charles Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters, re-arranged from last time (June 2006), and with a few recent additions like Longshot, Psylocke, Chamber (bro got that over a decade back) and Wolfsbane (from a 1998 pre-Marvel Legends set, got it on sale a few weeks ago). Those last two figures’ proportions allow them to mingle with the Legends, but they have very few points of articulation. I don’t have Havok, Captain Britain and Shadowcat, because they’re part of the frigging exclusive Giant-Man set, grrr, but I’m happy with this cool bunch right here.

By the way, I’ve been hearing good things about the adjectiveless X-Men comic book by Mike Carey, whose lineup consists of Rogue (the team leader), Cannonball, Iceman, Cable, Mystique, Sabretooth, Lady Mastermind (Mastermind’s daughter) and Karima Shapandar (the cyborg Sentinel from the Genoshan Excalibur team). Must read that some day.

Back to the toys. I hope they make a Cannonball figure. Other New Mutants members like Magma, Magik (armored and with Soulsword), Sunspot, Mirage (Valkyrie version), Cypher and Warlock (two-in-one pack) would be great, too. It’s good that some of those characters have become teachers at Xavier’s school in the X-books as well. I’m not too excited about the New X-Men (Hellion, Mercury, etc.) having their own figs yet. Maybe in a few years.

To Hasbro, figures of Polaris (preferably in the red and gold X-Factor costume), Jubilee, Madrox, Dazzler, Northstar, Forge, and Strong Guy are long overdue, and must be prioritized. We don’t want more of the X3: The Last Stand figure set mixed with the upcoming Legends waves.

Life Serial

Three things I’ve learned about people in the last couple of years, and consequently, stuff I learned about myself:

1. I feel truly indebted to only a handful of people.

I’ve come to the realization that there are people I can never repay for whatever kind of support they’ve given me all these years. And as much as I hate owing anyone anything, I have nothing but gratitude and endless thanks to those who have lent a hand during troubled times. A few relatives and friends can be counted within this distinction, as well as a few people from the occupational aspect of my life.

Thing is, in the past, there have been some people who feel that I owe them for whatever imagined favors. I find this kind of behavior puzzling, especially when I hear their sentiments through other people. I’ve always kept my distance from those I’ve nothing, or very little, in common with. Admittedly, I’ve had my share of whining about certain people in the past, but the cold, hard truth of the matter is, eventually, I had to grow up, accept that people often fall short of my expectations of them, and their lives don’t revolve around me.

I learned to keep work-related bonds professional. I pursue, and sometimes, make my own opportunities. I’ve worked at getting what I want, and continue to do so because no one else will do that for me. If certain people misconstrue and judge me for not acknowledging them, or feel that I’m not a nice enough person, then screw them. I don’t owe them anything.

2. Opinions are like butt holes.

Everyone’s got them. And that’s just the way it is. Well, I know how it feels like to be criticized by those who believe they’re better than me, in whatever it is I do. I used to feel upset about it, especially, since some 10 years ago, I was targeted by some poor schmuck, whose malicious dislike for me translated to awful things that passed for criticism of my work. I got over that, and accepted that there will be those who will say what they want, whether their views are intelligent or not, especially if you have something out that’s open to scrutiny. People will speak their minds, whether they’re being honest, or just feeling pompous (because, yes, some can’t accept that there are valid viewpoints other than their own).

It’s also easier now to discern which among the opinionated ones really know what they’re talking about. I believe now that listening to other people’s points is usually healthy for self-improvement, as well. And, however hard you may try, you just can’t please everyone. Tastes, preferences and mindsets will always differ from person to person. The reality of it is, you’ll see things that people can’t (or won’t) at some point, and vice versa.

Yep, butt holes.

3. Space is nice.

There are people I’ve met that I admire for a zillion different reasons, but I don’t have any desire to become real close friends with them, even when there have been opportunities that allow that. I can honestly say that I’ve outgrown many of my school friends, but I still respect them and wish them well, even when I don’t feel particularly concerned with them anymore. I suppose that’s pretty normal; my priorities, like theirs, have changed, just like our personalities and some predilections. I still feel a kinship with others who share my interests, in the fields I’m immersed in, but I’m okay with just being acquainted with them.

I’ve regretted pursuing some people, work-wise, and there were rare occasions when my relentlessness has been conceived as ill-timed or rude, even when I’ve been nothing but polite. I’ve discovered firsthand that some people can be such horrible assholes, who have no compunctions with humiliating you in front of others. But I don’t dwell on them anymore.

In recent years, “friendship” for me has evolved to define mutually beneficial transactions that don’t require deeper meaning or connotations. Sometimes, getting along is good enough. There are persons whom I communicate and work with, and things are just fine the way they are. We just have to respect each other’s boundaries. It’s convenient for both parties. Whatever works, I guess. And I appreciate them for being there.

Wings of Silver, Nerves of Steel

Archangel, one of my better-looking toys, from Toy Biz’s Marvel Legends-ish X-Men set, re-released last year. Was lucky I got this at the regular mall price.

Another Year Over

Torotot Time

Hello, 2007.

2006 was a pretty okay year for me, overall. Thanks to all the people who made it worth remembering. You’re the finest.

Just started posting at my new gallery site, alternatural art. I’ll still post some of my artworks here, but that other one’s exclusively for my illustrations. There’s a mix of old and new drawings over there, so do check that out soon.

Christmas week was pretty normal. Got a few gifts. Partook of the food, and shared some. I gained two pounds, which I think happened some weeks back. Hope to lose some weight soon.

Spoke with Benedict’s ex (“the one who got away”), who left Wednesday for Europe, and found out that I do have some things in common with that person. We both adore Harriet Wheeler (of The Sundays), Eddie Reader (of Fairground Attraction), Lightning Seeds and Ocean Blue, among others… hee hee.

Hung out with John yesterday afternoon, after finally finding time to get some of my comics from Druid’s Keep. Essential Handbook of the Marvel Universe-'89 Update is out, woohoo! That, and the latest Astonishing X-Men. Only a few issues left for the Whedon-Cassaday team.

Anyway. Manigong Bagong Taon! If you jumble the letters, they can spell “Gangbang Moaning Too!”

Speed of Sound

Songs that meant something to me in 2006. Some aren’t necessarily new, but they’re part of my soundtrack for the year nonetheless:

I See You, You See Me (Magic Numbers), One (U2 and Mary J. Blige), Teen for God (Dar Williams), Last Worthless Evening (Don Henley), Chasing Cars (Snow Patrol), Love Shines (Live), Bad Day (Daniel Powter), What Can Never Be (Sinead Lohan), Stolen (Dashboard Confessional), Passionate Kisses (Mary Chapin Carpenter), Will You Be There in the Morning (Heart), Fidelity (Regina Spektor), Dear Jessie (Madonna), High and Dry (Jamie Cullum), Shasta (Vienna Teng), Am I Wrong (Love Spit Love), Speak to Me (Color It Red), Key West Intermezzo (John Mellencamp), Time After Time (Cyndi Lauper and Sarah McLachlan), Something to Believe In (Poison), Show Me Heaven (Maria McKee), Valley of Sound (Heather Nova), Afterglow (INXS), Rumble Doll (Patti Scialfa), Speak to Me Someone (Gene), Bluest Eyes in Texas (A Camp), and Collide (Howie Day).

Making the Page Count

My fave comic books of the year. Some of them were only lent to me, heh. I included titles that didn’t come out this past year, also, stuff that I only read recently. Some that I can remember, in no particular order:

Stupid Comics TPB- Finally, a compilation of Mahfood's witty, honest and entertaining comic strips.

Walking Dead- A suspenseful year, as a really terrifying human bad guy, the Governor, is introduced.

All-New Marvel Universe A-Z- Updated character guide; I hope they start showing new, exclusive art next time though.

Astonishing X-Men- Love the friction between Emma Frost and Kitty Pryde.

Essential Marvel Universe Handbooks- Still very informative, the ‘80s companion series has been compiled into five thick books.

All-Star Superman- Each issue’s been imaginative, energetic and refreshing, so far.

X-Factor- Nice new lineup, and one of the deeper, more involving X-books out there.

Astro City-The Dark Age- The ending raises questions, but the arc is still a good read.

Thing- While short-lived, it was respectful of continuity and full of fun surprises.

Aloysius Crumrin- It’s an early adventure of the wizard character. Hope Naifeh continues to do more stuff like this, and Courtney Crumrin.

Promethea Vol. 1 TPB- Chockfull of Moore goodness. I like the overlapping but coexisting concepts. Trippy.

New Avengers Annual # 1- A good action issue that finally shows the team dynamic.

Deadpool- Liked the Joe Kelly issues most of all. He made the character real interesting.

Villains United Special- The villains make their move, the Justice League expands, and Metropolis becomes a war zone. What a great cliffhanger.

Shining Knight- This Seven Soldiers title stood out for me, because of the well-paced storytelling and exceptional art.

Runaways- You care about them and their best character dies. Drat.

Secret Six- It’s kinky, dirty, and unpredictable. I love it.

Exiles- It makes every alternate reality in Marvel count, and stars an eclectic mix of dimension-hopping characters.

She-Hulk- Again, Slott tells stories well.

New Avengers Civil War tie-ins- It’s great that these issues were self-contained. There’s good characterization especially in the Captain America, Luke Cage and Spider-Woman issues.

Young Justice- Wholesome fun with the young DC heroes, but it’s occasionally a dark teen team book.

Young Avengers- Nicely done first year, and I’m looking forward to how these characters develop.

Civil War Front Line- This actually enhances the main Civil War book.

The Forty Niners- Gorgeously rendered tale about Precinct Ten and Neopolis in the early days.

Stuff I didn’t like at all: Alpha Flight killed off-panel in New Avengers, the confusing and abrupt ending of Seven Soldiers, the evil Batgirl arc in Robin, the last three issues of Marvel Team-Up, the unending massacre of mutant students in New X-Men, and the inconsistent art of Infinite Crisis # 7.

Oi to the World and Everybody Wins

Patience of Angels

Saint Jim, Noche Buena. "He knows if you’ve been bad or good…"

Two years ago, December 23^rd, the first batch of Lexy, Nance & Argus copies was dropped off and displayed at Comic Quest Megamall. Deciding to publish that was an easy one; the tough part was figuring out how to fund the thing after discovering that it might wipe out my measly savings if I pushed through with it. By November 2004, I had begun looking for a printer. I contacted almost every company listed in the old directories and soon realized that it was going to be hard finding one that I can afford, that had to be located nearby. One printer stood out, though. I appreciated that the nice old lady seemed very hands-on with her projects at the office when I visited. After explaining to her what I wanted, we went through paper stock and binding options, and found out that the total cost would be lower than what the other printing presses were asking.

But it was still too steep for me. I believed in my project, so I considered asking relatives to fund half of it, then I’d pay up bit by bit. I didn’t ask them, however. I really wasn’t comfy talking about the content of the book with them, but luckily, a good friend bailed me out by financing half the printing expenses (slowly but surely, I was able to pay him back, about five or six months later). So it was set. The printer lady was kind, and explained that she needed to get a friend—another printer--to help her, so that the project would be finished before Christmas. The two printers knew what they were doing, although there were just very specific things that I called their attention to.

It was, again, tough; I had to reject and send back several thick reams of finished pages, as some of them had obvious ink blots or other unforeseen errors. I helped correct the film-stripping mistakes (I never thought those Ad Production skills from college would one day prove handy), and later, inspect the page count and the signature arrangement. I sat down for long hours to make sure that stapled and trimmed copies didn’t lack pages. A hundred copies had been bound and finished by the evening of Dec. 22^nd, and I also dropped off complimentary books for review by the next afternoon.

Two years later, I’m still grateful that people write me about the comic book. It’s very encouraging that, as something that started out as monthly 2-pagers in 2001, there were people who believed in it, who waited patiently for the actual comic book to come out all those years later. Many of the reactions were very particular about their favorite parts or characters (even psychic Jim—in the drawing above--has some fans, yay!), while others included it in their Friendster, Blogger, or MySpace profiles (sometimes alongside Bob Ong books and stuff by local comics luminaries). I’m glad that it’s gotten favorable reviews and reactions from different readers--students, authors and teachers—in blogs and in publications such as PDI, Inquirer Libre, Manila Bulletin, Cosmopolitan, Icon, and FHM.

I compile all the letters, reviews and messages in a clearbook that, I must admit, is something that I look at whenever I have lapses in confidence. Some say that the comic book has helped them recognize important things in their own lives, in their own situations. I have also made some friends because of it, and maybe, alienated others because of it, too.

But pushing through with it was a decision that I never regretted.

Turn the Other Cheek

There’s something really odd about the comic book that accompanied the Psylocke Marvel Legends action figure. The toy is wearing the sexy ninja bikini; it has the partially exposed buttcheeks, but the comic book, a reprint of Uncanny X-Men # 258 (part three of “Lady Mandarin”) has been cleaned up! Look at the original panels (above, click on it to enlarge) and the newer versions (below). I dunno, the Jim Lee art looked awesome—this was the time when he was just becoming popular—but I wonder why they chose this comic book, and had to be conservative about it. Yeah, it was a sexy-looking issue; but in the reprint, as with the panels here, Betsy and Logan’s buns have been covered up! In some pages, Psylocke’s bikini and thighs were blackened out, like she’s wearing cycling shorts. Wolvie’s once-barehipped loincloth now has a different cut, heaven knows why. Just so effing weird.

Closure At Last

Watched Eragon with John, met up briefly with Benedict and his ex, and had yummy Caramel Brownie Blizzard at Dairy Queen last Monday. Benedict dropped by the house the next evening to watch the last Six Feet Under ep, and ate fried rice on my bed.

There was an awesome montage by the end of SFU, but I think they removed the Keith-David wedding! What the?! Anyway, that montage was sad, but beautiful. Made me tear up a little when I watched it a second time, a few hours ago. Best part of the season, definitely.

So. Happy holidays! Have fun and eat well, people. Play safely.

Bangin' on My TV Set

I felt a little stressed with self-imposed deadlines, so I dropped everything last Sunday and just rested, read, and caught up with some TV shows. Not The Amazing Race, however. I skipped many episodes of the recently finished season. I watched about two and a half episodes total. I dunno, I didn’t have the urge to watch it at all these past few weeks. I just got bored with it. I guess I’m more interested with non-reality shows, for the time being.

I finally watched Entourage season 1, all eight episodes in one sitting. It averaged at 24 minutes an episode, so it was easy to stay with. I like that apart from the manager, the agent and the two tag-alongs, the actor played by Adrian Grenier has encounters with Hollywood weirdos, eccentrics, and people playing themselves. Funny, and sometimes, quite clever. I think they may have cut out some nudity, and bleeped off some profanity in the regular airing, but I really don’t know. I hope the Virtusios get the next season DVD set soon (wink, wink).

I’m also watching the third season of Alias already, and after six episodes, I’m beginning to miss many things, because it just doesn’t feel like the same show anymore. Season 2 was good, but once they ditched Sydney’s double agent status, things looked a little lost. But that, after a few episodes, changed with the introduction of new threats like the fake Francie, as well as the reintroduction of Sloane as the evil fugitive, and of course, Irina and Sark. However, the “two years later” jump by the season finale, while bold, feels a little like cheating. We’ll see if important flashbacks reveal the whole story in season 3.

Speaking of third seasons, the latest Desperate Housewives has been so-so, so far. There has been one episode that I really like, though, the one with the supermarket situation. After that, it’s pretty much the same show, with new mysteries that feel cloned from the debut season’s. The storylines are looping, with very few changes. Bree the freak-magnet is now with someone who’s similarly obsessive; Mike the plumber is now amnesiac and is being linked to an unsolved crime; Susan has yet to be truly happy with another man; Gabby and Carlos’ love-hate relationship has become exhausting to watch. But I’ll still follow the show. I just hope things get better.

Ah, couch potato-ing can be such a chore, sometimes.

Before the Cows Come Home

A panel from David Hontiveros’ Avatar # 1. I drew this in 1999. The script, if I remember correctly, needed a panel where aliens prep a cow to carry a superhuman being in its womb.

Stars Wrapped in the Neon Glow

Busy as a bee, as the cliché goes. Assignments for the paper have piled up, but I’m working on them, and I hope to finish them all soon. I was called to help out in last Friday’s anniversary party; I had to interview a bunch of people who were performing in the show downstairs, at the office parking lot. I arrived 7:40-ish, and waited a bit for some of the performers to arrive.

Imago was fun. I actually saw most of the members in person before; I‘ve seen Aia De Leon and Zach Lucero at the Neil Gaiman event last July, while I’ve seen Tim Cacho from afar during a movie premiere in Megamall early this year. But the interview was the first time I’ve been introduced to them as a group. And it was great that I didn’t expect to be talking to them, but I knew enough of their music (I’ve been listening to them since the debut album, five years ago), so it was mostly an easy conversation. After the interview, Tim and Aia mentioned that I remind them of Jal from the band Sugarfree. Myrene Academia took a picture of me with her phone and told me she’d show the guy. Hehe. By the way, the picture above is their third and latest album. I still prefer their debut CD, but it’s still Imago, even if they sound differently, instrumentally and lyrically. A fun, talented bunch, they are.

The section’s reporter Bayani was such a trooper the whole time I was there, interviewing other celebrities in that same room where the singers and bands ate dinner, rested, and prepared for their appearances downstairs. I was able to talk to the Callalily boys too, a group of UST students in their late teens (I thought the band would be older, as I only saw their music video once before… by the way, Mark Bonifacio, if you’re reading this, sorry I didn’t recognize you kaagad!). I also interviewed Bimbo Cerrudo, who had really interesting things to say about his 20-year-old career in showbiz.

The tisoy boys from Philippine Idol also stayed in the room for a time, and had their pics taken by people at the paper. Later, Zsa Zsa Padilla arrived and sat down. She talked about ZsaZsa Zaturnnah with some people I’m not familiar with, but I don’t think it was an interview. I really didn’t pay attention because she was maybe 12 feet away from me, and I didn’t wanna eavesdrop. By that time, I had finished with work, and I was finally able to get food from the buffet. Had some crunchy fried balls with crab meat in them (I think), fried rice, pancit canton, and iced tea. Oh, and I got some Pringles-looking potato chips, which were just served on a platter at the table, and put them on my plate too. Yum. Free food.

Had an interesting time over there. Kat, Ma’ams Emmie, Rose and Cora were very accommodating. Had to leave by 10:45. Ma’am Cora wanted to have a picture taken of us before I left, so she looked for a photographer at the party. Hehe.

Fun, surreal work night.

Little Miss Can’t Be Wrong

If you’re in Glorietta and planning to watch something there but you can’t decide what it is you wanna see, go catch Little Miss Sunshine, which stars Steve Carell, Toni Collette, Greg Kinnear, and Abigail Breslin. It’s a fun, sad, hilarious and memorable family-road trip-beauty contest parody movie. It may remind you of your own relatives, or not, but it’s something that every family should see. It’s an Ayala exclusive and it’s showing starting today.

Rocking Around the Family Tree

Six Feet Under’s final episode airs on Tuesday, Dec. 19. Finally! Last week’s episode was great, but several weeks have passed since that and last night’s episode, and it’s getting tiring to see the Fishers go through different periods of depression after losing a family member. I really hope that the series ends satisfyingly.

Another unique TV family, the Bristows, has become interesting. I’m now 10 episodes into the second season of Alias, which has included Lena Olin and David Anders in its cast. Olin plays Irina Derevko, a top spy-assassin, while Anders is Julian Sark, her protégé “son” and a similarly proficient merc badass. I loved it when the Bristow clan fought together during a mission in India, and the storyline which guested Faye Dunaway. Am loving the series, so far.

Teen for God

Ten days from now, it’ll be Christmas season in the Philippines again, officially. I’m an outsider now, but admittedly, the season fills me with good memories and reminds me of being with those dearest to me. I admire the spirit of togetherness, of spreading good cheer, and the various colorful customs that the holidays bring, even when I'm not into the original meaning anymore.

I like Russ’ recent post about his agnosticism, “Africa,” and it’s always good to discover that spiritual contentment for some people needn’t be compressed and organized into one belief system. I can relate to that, sometimes, when I’m not a total disbeliever and I wonder if there really is this encompassing intelligence behind all existence. As I have mentioned repeatedly here, I just don’t wish to belong to any religion or organization that claims absolute truth and punishment for those who don’t believe in their centuries-old version of the ever-powerful God. I don’t believe in that, nor will I swear on any book that encapsulates beliefs pertaining to any specific deity. I just don’t have that faith. It works for some people and I respect that.

But for me, the universe is such a vast and layered place, and there are more dimensions to it than we can possibly comprehend as humans. If a specific God from the major religions were to be proven as the real one, as someone who commands unhesitating obedience, well, I’d still not worship that being. I’ve hundreds of questions, and I’ve seen enough bad things happen to good people to concern myself with winning the favor of an entity that has left us earthlings to fend for ourselves. I really don’t get why, like the queen’s mirror in Snow White, I have to remind an abstract concept that he’s the fairest one of all. I also don’t accept tragedies and misfortunes as “God’s will” because that excuse oversimplifies things, and doesn’t really put that divine creator in a good light.

I do remember belonging and trying to make sense of my life in high school, where I felt it imperative that I recognize the power and forgiveness of a god whom I believed to have sent his demigod son to redeem humankind. I used to think that I’ve seen the light, that spiritually, I’m enriched. A friend would bring me to his family’s born-again Christian bible studies, and I’d attend weekly mass too. Even then as a teen, though, I wondered why there had to be these schisms between different Christian groups--I still don’t get it now--but back then, all that mattered was that personal bond, as only a surrendering worshipper can offer the worshipped.

But life happened. Pains, victories, the whole shebang. I found out I couldn’t be the person that that God wanted me to be. I didn’t fall in with the wrong crowd; if anything, I just recognized what I wanted in my life years later, and religious interference wasn’t one of them. I began questioning why there were these contradicting versions within this variant flock, and without. And, as I came from one religion whose book of ancient accounts shows an omniscient but imperfect God, I wondered: don’t other people see how inconsistent and occasionally out of character this being has been portrayed throughout the book? There were various authors, yes, but why the radically conflicting accounts? Why has he exhibited a clear, contemptible disdain for his creatures on more than one occasion, when he was supposed to be perfect and can’t be taken by surprise? Why does he need us to complete him? Who transcribed these supposedly divine words, exactly?

I felt that it was becoming detrimental to my development as a person, so I moved on. I don’t need to be lectured on bedroom matters by avowed celibates. I’ve no desire to sing praises anymore to a God that had become a stranger to me (although I must admit that there are some beautiful hymns in church). I can’t reconcile my quest for personal betterment with these complicated, earth-based bureaucracies. Sometimes I wonder how many people think as I do, or cry foul whenever some religious enforcers make up some dated directives or single out the most furious passages to quote when condemning non-believers or errant souls.

What really frighten me now are the extremists of different religions, those who will brook no dissenting opinions. It’s really regrettable when religious leaders also inspire further division, threatening calamities and divine vengeance in the afterlife, and even blaming old catastrophes on those who don’t follow their interpretation of ancient scriptures. I don’t understand, either, why some followers are quick to apologize for their human and fallible leaders, too, or ignore their failings altogether. Oh, well.

I used to love Jesus. Or maybe, I just thought I did. Well, whichever the case, that doesn’t matter anymore. I’m definitely loving myself and enjoying my life more now. I still hope and wish for better things and brighter tomorrows, yes. I keep hoping that this pitiful planet knows real peace and harmony at last, among other things. These divisions may escalate more before that happens, though. If there’s indeed a God, I’d like to think that it’d be many times bigger and better than anything we can imagine, dwarfing manifold all those versions that have come before, and that it won’t need us as its mouthpieces or devotees.

Faith and Common Ground

Since I’m talking about metaphysical enigmas, I’d like to share these two lovely pieces—a song and some comics captions--I’ve come across just a few years back

Let the Mystery Be
(Iris De Ment)

“Everybody’s wondering what and where they all came from. Everybody’s worrying ‘bout where they’re gonna go when the whole thing’s done. Nobody knows for certain, so it’s all the same to me. I think I’ll just let the mystery be.

“Some say once you’re gone, you’re gone forever and some say you’re gonna come back. Some say you rest in the arms of the Savior if in sinful ways, you lack. Some say that they’re coming back in a garden, bunch of carrots and little sweet peas. I think I’ll just let the mystery be.

“Some say they go to a place called Glory and I ain’t saying it ain’t a fact. But I’ve heard that I’m on the road to purgatory and I don’t like the sound of that. I believe in love and I live my life accordingly. And I choose to let the mystery be.”

The Sweetest Things (excerpt from Stupid Comics # 2)
by Jim Mahfood

“Without art, writing, and music there would be no reason for me to be. These 3 forms are the purest expression of man’s soul. The ultimate expression. And so I create. And I try and understand through my work. And I talk to God everyday. He is my homeboy. And I’m no genius but I’m smart enough to realize that God does not exist. Because God is me. God is you. God is everyone. God is this bird. He is this tree. God is the universe. He is infinite. God is the energy that connects all living things. We’re all in this together.”

Intermissionary

Seen this past week or so:

1. Britney’s girl thing. Well, the ex-teen pop star shows ‘em what they want. She went commando. Hey, I’m not judging. But feisty fashion list-maker Mr. Blackwell’s probably fuming right now. It’s interesting that Ms. Spears has been in partying mode for the last couple of weeks, hanging out with fellow celebs Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan and celebrating her split from the ex. And just as talk of their supposed sex tape died down, people get a peek at her goodies anyway. More than once. Oops, indeedy.

2. Pacquiao’s parade. What the hell were all those people doing with him on that float? Were they boxing champs too? Utterly shameless, self-aggrandizing opportunists. Good thing the boxer’s declared that politics is the last thing in his mind right now. Let’s hope that he won’t ever aspire to become a politician, and just sticks to doing what he's great at--bashing heads in--instead.

3. Sarah McLachlan sang “River.” Just saw her perform on Conan. It’s not as beautiful as the Joni Mitchell original, but Sarah’s more than worthy to cover it. It’s from her new Christmas album "Wintersong." I wanna listen to that, and Aimee Mann’s recently released holiday album.

4. Super Spy. Finally watched and finished the first season of Alias. Jennifer Garner kicks serious ass as double agent Sydney Bristow. Yeah, I know, I'm late in finding that out. I was skeptical of the series at first, but I like how the conceit's been entertainingly and believably stretched to the end of the season, so far. I also like that she’s a mistress of disguise, that she’s scrappy and can pull off a lot of identities. Too bad she didn’t do so well as Elektra, though. I hope the next couple of seasons will keep me as interested. The show just ended early this year, after five seasons.

5. Heroes. People are noticing similarities between this show and Lost, but as I’ve yet to watch an episode of the latter, I really don’t know how Heroes might be emulating it. Anyway, I like some parts, but find some characters’ situations boring so far. But as it’s an ambitious enough fantasy series and very much comics-inspired, I’m curious how the multiple storylines connect and become realized. I like Hiro (the time-space bender), the younger Petrelli brother (the power mimic), and the cheerleader (with the healing factor and the obviously evil dad). Hope the payoff’s good.

6. The latest Civil War Frontline. With the exception of the hit-and-miss last portion of the book (which has gotten really forced in presenting war analogies lately), this eleven-issue series is an important tie-in to the main Civil War miniseries, and is mostly a substantial, worthwhile read. It’s more meaningful and deeper than that main title, actually. The central book, unfortunately, has been suffering from jumpy storytelling and is having a lot of important things happen off-panel or off-book, which shouldn't be the case.

7. Smooching. A pair of twenty-ish lesbian girls kissed each other goodbye as one of them was boarding a jeep in Muntinlupa. Sweetest thing I’ve seen all week.