Sherlock Holmes

Went to see the new 'Sherlock Holmes' film today. Overall - it was pretty good!

I'm no expert on Arthur Conan Doyle's novels abot Sherlock Holmes, but I can safely say that director, Guy Ritchie, has definitely Hollywoodised the character. But, this didn't take away from the film - I think having the young rogue as the hero brings more life to the film.

Robert Downey Jr plays him very well, as he does most people he plays. Go and see this film because of his performance...that's all you'll need. Jude Law is Sherlock's sidekick, Dr Watson - and instead of being the geek friend that I always thought he was...Watson is actually the main ass-kicker in this film, both mentally and physically - and even though Jude Law can annoy, he was very good in this, and I applaud him for his efforts.

The girl in the film was played by Rachel McAdams. Famous for 'The Notebook'. I loved that film, and in this new film, she plays fiesty, seductive Irene Adler...and she kicks ass in this too! She has positively shown that she can do stunt work - and do it well. Well done Rachel.

The beginning of the film sees Holmes and Watson in their last case together. The film progresses when Holmes is given a case to solve regarding Lord Blackwood - the main villain of the film. He has killed 5 people, and has threatened to kill three more - however, he's in prison and he has just been hung (and Watson has confirmed him dead) - how is he alive and killing people? Blackwood has a huge plan to take over the House of Lords by threatening them with a lethal poison...if they don't agree to be led by him, they die. Holmes and Watson need to stop him! This is a general paraphrased storyline...there's a lot of comedy and action involved...some tense, thrilling, amazing, endearing moments - and each adds up to bring you 'Sherlock Holmes'.

Guy Ritchie has a definite style - that he continues in this film. I'm not sure exactly what it is...but you know it has the Ritchie involved! There is a fight scene which reminds me a lot like 'Snatch' - (*ding* Guy Ritchie) - and the way it was ultra slowmo and Holmes narrates over it exactly what his next action is, adds to the charm of the character. You know that what is about to happen isn't just a spontaneous outburst of fighting, but each punch has been carefully placed to cause most harm depending on the enemy...Holmes is a very smart man, and this is shown very well.

The cinematography is great - I'd like to see it nominated at the Oscars. Very well shot...and Guy Ritchie has proved himself yet again. His previous film, 'RocknRolla' is very different to this film...and Ritchie was brave to try such a big known character with his style...but it worked really well. Some could argue otherwise, but this is my blog, so there.

The ending is marvellous - because when it's getting late and you start to think about bedtime - you could get lost. But the film explains it all at the end...and how each illusion was done and why, and leaves room for the next film...oh yes, Lord Blackwood was merely a puppet to the grand master who we are introduced to, but never go deeper...but, the sequel awaits us!

Ritchie has given himself a big job as he left 'RocknRolla' with definite view of a sequel...and now this film with a sequel. Personally, I can't wait for both - he's been great this past few years...and I hope it continues!

It's Christmas!

Wow, what a long wait it's been.

It's been an incredible 2009 in many ways, and if 2009 is anything to judge by, then we're going to have a great 2010. Maybe it's just me. I've been blessed with regards to where I'm living term time. I love my friends, my church, my course - and I can't be more thankful to God for them!

However, I'm now back home and had some real good thoughts! It was my church's carol service tonight, and it's great to be reminded of Jesus' birth - our Saviour. We sing these carols, but often sing it with a drone...like we have *got* to sing these songs, but surely we should read the words and think that we *get* to sing these songs!

'Sing, choirs of angels,

Sing in exultation,

Sing, all ye citizens of heaven above!

Glory to God

In the highest:

Oh, come, let us adore him,

Oh, come, let us adore him,

Oh, come, let us adore him,

Christ the Lord.'

Let us adore him!! We should be singing this with pride in our Maker and Redeemer - not just complain because the musical accompaniment just isn't up to scratch compared to last year's carol service.

And the song 'Hark the Herald Angels Sing' - please read it properly the next time you sing it. It's wonderful.

'Born that man no more may die

Born to raise the sons of earth

Born to give them second birth'

This is the reason Jesus was born - for us. We are the ones who can have eternal life, we can be raised to be seated with Christ and have that second birth!

Another thing I was doing today was watching 'The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe' with Andrew and Cathy. It's remarkable how many parallels can be made between the story and Jesus' life and character.

The main point I shall raise is about Aslan. Aslan shows true emotion - anger, fear, sadness, joy, happiness...all of which Jesus experienced. Jesus was no robotic emotionless man...he was a real man with real feelings, just the same as the ones we experience from day to day.

Aslan laid down his life for Edmund - and was humilated - he had his mane cut off (his dignity), he was tied up, and all sorts of demons surrounded him when he was killed by the White Witch (the one who thought she was in charge).

Jesus laid down his life for us. He was humilated - he had his dignity stripped from him by being beaten, flogged and had his beard pulled out, and not only was he surrounded by the Roman soldiers, family, friends and citizens, but Jesus was also surrounded by demons when he was crucified by the the people (the ones who think are in charge of their own lives).

See the similarity? and that is just one scene from the film. Jesus was born and died for us - so that we could have a perfect relationship with God.

After Aslan dies, he is resurrected - he defeats death. He explains to Lucy and Susan...

' If the Witch knew the true meaning of sacrifice, she might have interpreted the deep magic differently. That when a willing victim who has committed no treachery, is killed in a traitor's stead, the stone table will crack, and even death itself would turn backwards.'

and after the battle is won at the end, Aslan says...

'It is finished.'

Andrew and I looked at each other when he said this as we both knew that it was exactly what Jesus had said.

'When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.' John 19:30

Jesus sacrificed himself, he is the lamb to the slaughter...and he was innocent, was perfect - and took our sins, and died in our place. But, Jesus conquered death - for death couldn't hold him! Aslan is resurrected, and he shows he is in control by roaring loudly. Jesus beat death, he was in control of everything - even during his execution - he is the lion!

Let us adore him...for his birth and life led to our restored relationship with God...let us adore him tomorrow with hearts and minds in complete and utter thankfulness for he is so worthy of praise!

Things To Do Before I'm 30

We were discussing this in our flat today...and I remembered back to 'A Walk to Remember' where her things to do included

- seeing a specific comet
- being in two places at once
- getting a tattoo
- getting married where her parents were married

These are very interesting things to do...and not too expensive (apart from the wedding one!).

I would like to be more creative - but these are some of the things on my list (some are for my own personal list)

- witness snow on Christmas day
- learn to play an interesting instrument (not just your run of the mill mainstream ones!)
- work in Romania
- pass my degree
- buy a replica sword from The Lord of the Rings
- climb Ben Nevis
- take a shower under a waterfall

Ok...so not that imaginative...but they are in the realms of reality - they could all happen potentially!

So...anyone fancy a trip up Ben Nevis with me after we graduate - who knows maybe go on Christmas Day and see if some snow falls? And have a random instrument and sword with us on our expedition that might find us hiking through the Amazon rainforest where we can shower under a waterfall and eventually we'll hike to Romania and work there until I make a new list?

Let me know.

Christmas

Don't you just love Christmas?

I do.

Decorated the flat today...it looks very festive...and oh, it just brings joy to my heart. Bought lights, a tree, inflatable Santa, a snowman, streamers, candycanes and ohh...how I love it so! Feel free to visit Santa's grotto anytime...

I'm being minimalist with this blog as it's late...but advent calendars...aren't they wonderful? You only get one per year...this is my 19th one...these aren't like meals, no my friend, these are wonderful rare events! And unlike having *three* meals a day...no no...you only get to open *one* window a day...how much suspense can a small thing cause?? A lot.

Right...I'm gonna post this and then work on another blog post now...hope you've enjoyed my quick post!

LeAnn Rimes - Totally Misjudged and Underrated.

LeAnn Rimes - born on the 28th August 1982 in Jackson, Mississippi.

Best known for - the 'Coyote Ugly' soundtrack.

Now, I love 'Coyote Ugly', don't get me wrong, but LeAnn Rimes has shown much more talent and musical capability in her other albums. However, most people have judged 'Coyote Ugly' and decided their opinion of LeAnn Rimes on that one film...and if the film isn't to their taste, they aren't going to have a high opinion of LeAnn. But that film was just the tip of the iceberg! There's so much more!!

I have three of her albums sitting on my shelf here at uni...and I will briefly tell you about each one - and which songs you should definitely listen to before passing judgement!

Ok the earliest one I have is from 2005 - and is called 'This Woman'. This album has some brilliant songs on it - LeAnn is keeping to her country roots in this...but yet, it has a strange appeal to people who aren't into country...give this video a watch.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_tgf7MpQ0c4

This one doesn't show her vocal abilities greatly, but it shows her fun side.

This next song is called 'I Dare You' - and is brilliant...give it a listen. (Note: I haven't a clue what the film is in the background so please ignore!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQ602mH9Cos

There are loads of other songs on this album...but these are my favourites.

Ok...next up, we have the album, 'Whatever We Wanna' - more pop/rock in this one...LeAnn is trying out her luck on slowing moving away from her country roots. It works in a couple of songs...but I much prefer her country music. The song below is called 'And It Feels Like' - now this one, is probably my favourite song by LeAnn Rimes. And watch it all...she's phenomenal!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1d_MsVlKfE

Absolutely brilliant...however, her other songs on this album are ok...but not amazing.

Finally, we move onto her latest album, 'Family'. Now, on this album - there are loads of brilliant songs. She's gone back to her country slightly, and kept a bit of the pop...and she's made this album. It's the best album she's done! Ok...first song I shall mention is 'Nothin' Better To Do' - very country esk...but still great!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhQHkPSHZRw

Thank you LeAnn...next one we'll move onto is...'Fight'. Not one of the songs which people would be drawn to first - but it's one of these rare gems.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKt5_-w1Ie4

Absolutely brilliant. Next one on the album is 'Good Friend and a Glass of Wine' and I think that most girls can relate to this...this is what makes it awesome...we can easily relate to some of her songs.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9a4o_RASgOc&feature=fvw

The last one I'll mention is 'What I Cannot Change'...LeAnn wrote this about her own life, and has started a website which encourages people to write their own life stories, and what people have learned to cope with what they cannot change in their lives. For LeAnn, it was her skin condition, psoriasis...and the ongoing damaged relationship between her and her parents.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SvOyi6mYIWs

(I do apologise about the karaoke words on this video - but just listen to it)

Next time you hear someone talking about LeAnn Rimes -- don't automatically assume they are listening to a song from 'Coyote Ugly'...because I've just given you a small selection of some of her amazing other songs which are just ignored - she's very underrated in England, and I hope this short blog has shown you the joys of LeAnn Rimes!

Items In My Room

I'm on blogger...and looking around my room for inspiration...and then, I think that explaining some of the items in my room would be quite interesting! So here I begin...

The biggest thing you will see when entering my room is my Romanian flag - which is hanging up on the ceiling. This is the thing that makes me look like a Romanian loyalist...but I can't say I am, I just love the country and the memories it brings me! One day I was in Romania, my excursion around the touristy locations was cut short as one of the kids in camp had injured herself...so we had to return to camp quickly. Some of us had to return then, but some of the others were able to stay -- on their extra couple of hours there, they bought Romanian flags. Upon coming to uni, I decided to get one myself! This explains why I have it!

The coolest item is most definitely my electric blue Fender Squier (aka an electric guitar). I taught myself to play guitar in the summer of 2008 when I had loads of time on my hands...and since then, I have bought myself a pink acoustic guitar (which is also in my room), and this electric. It's amazing to play...

Ok...now, I have a huge blanket...and I mean huge. My grandma made it for me for my 18th birthday...I mean, you have to see it to fully appreciate the grandness of this blanket, as each piece of material was carefully and lovingly sewn on. It's great for wrapping up in when watching a film or when you're feeling cold...and it's currently awaiting a time for me to use it in such a way.

My shoes are quite a feature in my room...you can't miss them. I have quite a few pairs...for all occasions. Wellies, boots, walking boots, boat shoes, sandals, trainers and slippers...just so I cover all the bases. However, they are predominantly autumnal colours...ie, brown, beige and green (ok my only green ones are my wellies). I do need to branch out in terms of colours, but I find brown is such a good shoe colour - you can wear it with pretty much anything!

My DVD collection is sitting on the floor...I think I need to talk about this. These are my DVDs. I decided to start my own collection when I came to the realisation that when I went to uni, I couldn't take the DVDs in the cupboard from home, because they belonged to my parents! Therefore, I began the journey to form this collection. I now have 140 DVDs...of all different genres...actions/thrillers/rom coms/chick flicks/horror/period dramas/epics/Disney...there's something for everyone! And they are all alphabetised...and yes, this does mean that if I buy a DVD beginning with 'C', then I have to move all the DVDs one by one...but it's actually quite fun to do! And in 4 DVDs time, I will need to upsize to a 208 sized DVD wallet! This will be an epic moment...for two reasons...

1. I would have filled an 144 DVD case.

2. I need to take all the DVDs out and put them all into the new wallet...in alphabetical order.

My pictures will be the last thing I'll comment on. I have them everywhere in my room. They are mainly on my warddrobe, but one has made it onto my desk! The one on my desk is of the CU's trip to Alton Towers in May - that was one great day... and to have my friends on a picture with pirates!...who wouldn't have this on their desk?! My other pictures on one side of my wardrobe are of various things from back home...mainly my dog and my friends doing random stuff like going to Alton Towers, having a murder mystery party, the Ben and Jerry's hunt, superhero themed Holidya Bible Club...it's awesome.

The other side of my wardrobe have more recent photos which were all taken this summer. I have pictures from Romania, from beach mission, from the CU Alton Towers trip, the big CU photo, the committee photo from the masquerade ball, my brother, sister and I posing in front of a yacht in Cannes, meeting Lou Fellingham, my whole family posing next to a water fountain in Cannes (it's great because I'm the most tanned out of the lot of them!), and my friends and I eating watermelon - good times!! Both sides of my wardrobe are great...for different reasons!

I do have more stuff in my room, like Febreeze (I love the smell of it), CSI DVDs (great!!) and my Superdry coat...but these materialistic things aren't worth much compared to the pictures of my friends, as they mean so much to me...and I wouldn't be much without each one of them. And these materialistic things will perish...but I am so thankful that God has given everyone the opportunity to be saved, and to not perish. I'm thankful to God for giving me these people to start friendships with, as they encourage me day by day. We are not dead, we are alive and we will all be with Him one day.

Seasons - How Do You Like Yours?

Seasons - everyone knows them, everyone experiences them...it's a natural phenomenon.

Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Each has their ups and their downs - I shall briefly explain about each of them, and conclude once I have weighed up the pros and cons.

Spring --

The first thing that popped into my mind was 'Spring forward' - the clocks change. Again, everyone in England has to change their clocks, one hour forward in springtime. Therefore, bad news people, one hour less in bed. This is a bad thing. And you frequently find on the Sunday morning, fewer people in church - or more people who are late...and you all know why. However, it means we have entered British Summer Time - hooray for summer.

Spring though, has its ups...cute little lambs and birds are born and it's very cute...and you have the Easter Bunny. And trees and foliage begin to grow back, and it's all very seasonal...but it's still cold.

Summer --

Summer is the time of long holidays! Ohhh yeah. This year I had four months of holiday where I did beach mission in Llandudno, a ten day trip to Romania and a week's holiday in France. I loved every week. I enjoyed Romania the most...brilliant times being able to share the gospel with kids over there! Summer therefore, has the appealing factor that I can go to Romania again.

However...in the summer, bees and wasps come out. I do not like this. I cannot deal with buzzy things...especially things that can sting. I have been told several times that bees won't sting you unless they feel they are in danger...but there's always a first time that a nasty bee that will decide to change nature's course!

But summer does have better weather, and I get to wear shorts and sandals, and get a tan - oh, and it's my birthday in the summer!

Autumn --

Autumn is the opposite of spring. In the USA, autumn is called 'fall'...and in the rhyme, 'Spring forward, fall back' - therefore we change to Greenwich Mean Time, and we move our clocks back an hour - an extra hour in bed, hooray!

But, leaves begin to fall off trees - it starts getting cold, my shorts are put into hibernation for the rest of the year...this is sad, because my shorts are awesome. However, we get crunchy leaves - this is fun. I love going for walks when the leaves are nice and crunchy...it warms my heart. And bonfire night also falls within autumn - and that brings fireworks.

Winter --

Winter always makes me feel a little sad - it's the furthest time away from my birthday, and in Narnia, the witch brought on winter. However...winter has CHRISTMAS! Need I say more?

Brisk walks with warm coats and hats...and catching snow on your tongue, and slipping on ice - it's all lovely. Wrapped up and sitting by a warm toasty fire...hmm...it's lovely just thinking about it.

--------------------------

To conclude, each of these seasons have their ups and downs - but I have to say that summer and winter are at the top. Summer probably just wins because the weather is lovely, I have the chance to do missions in new places and it's just fun. Winter comes second because I'm just not a huge fan of the cold...I get a bright red nose...this, I do not find fun. Spring and autumn are lovely...but just not my favourites.

Perudo and Gerard Butler - An Amazing Combination

Now, first of all, I'm not saying that these two things will be to everyone's taste. But it is to me, so please read on and find out just exactly why...

Perudo was designed in Peru...a long time ago, and made into an official game in 1988 (I did not just wikipedia that, right there.) It's a bluffing game using dice. In a usual set, you have 30 die, and six cups - therefore, six people can play with the five specifically coloured dice which match a specifically coloured cup. Very fun.

It's complicated to explain on a blog...so if you wish to find out how to play phone me, facebook me, snail-mail me, text me, whatever...and we shall arrange a time to play. But I shall continue onto why I love it so much, as opposed to, how to play.

I was first taught how to play on my youth club holiday about 3 years ago...*hold please*

-- I have just noticed that Perudo, that was made in Peru, has 'peru' in the title! PERUdo ! --

*and continue* ...by my youth leaders. I immediately loved the game, as did most other people at my youth club. This is a reason why I love it so, apart from loving Jesus, these friends of mine also share something with me, in knowing how to play perudo, and loving it (just not as much as Jesus).

I also love the game because whenever I watch 'Pirates of the Caribbean 2' with my friends, and Orlando and Davey Jones play perudo, I feel pretty cool because I tend to be the only one who says 'I wish I knew what they were playing' - Haha! If only they knew that they were sitting next to a perudo master! Or just someone who has the game, anyway.

Great game...play it!

Next - Gerard Butler...apart from being Scottish and awesome, he's an amazing actor. He plays several types of character, and has avoided being typecast - well done, sir. He has played bad guys...

Attila the Hun, Phantom of the Opera, and Dracula.

and good guys...

Gerry Kennedy, King Leonidas, One Two, Andre Marek

(again, if you want to watch these films...come see me, I have them!)

I first saw him in 'The Phantom of the Opera' in 2006 when I had a long summer holiday - and I loved the film. Some say I only like the film because he's in it - but I loved it long before I became a fan of him...and I didn't love it first time because of his looks, because you can't really see his face in the film. Therefore, I am a genuine fan of this film! It's great...he does play an evil guy, but I feel sorry for him every time I watch it.

I have also met this fine man...in Sept 2008 just before coming to uni. I loved that day! I had a big cheesy grin on my face for days...mainly because,

Gerry (yes, we're on short names terms now) came over and signed loads of pictures for people...he was charming. I complimented him on his work in 'Dear Frankie' (watch it!), and he seemed startled when I mentioned it (I can only assume because all the other girls in the crowd 'love' him in PS: I Love You - they aren't 'true' fans)...'Dear Frankie' was a film that he made before he became famous, and one that he's really proud of, but it's not really recognised by fans...apart from me! Anyway...he thanked me, smiled at me - not just at the crowd, at *me*...and walked away. I looked down and noticed he hadn't signed my picture, so I looked up and said 'Gerry!' - he turned around and looked at me, looked at my picture, and took the time to come back to me to sign my picture, and I thanked him, he said 'You're very welcome', and he smiled at me, again - and then walked away with his personal assistant. That little moment right there was great. I can only imagine what would have happened had his PA not have been there...we would have gotten talking, and who knows, numbers may have been exchanged...one can only imagine.

But yes...he's a great guy, and if we met up, I would first tell him about the gospel...and tell him the great news about Jesus and the sacrifice he paid. Hopefully, he would seek to start his own relationship with God. Then I would teach him perudo...

Psalm 121

'1 I lift up my eyes to the hills — where does my help come from?
2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip — he who watches over you will not slumber;
4 indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The LORD watches over you — the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
7 The LORD will keep you from all harm — he will watch over your life;
8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.'

.

As of the 13th August 2009, I either hadn't heard this psalm before...or I hadn't fully appreciated the meaning. But, that all changed on the 13th August around 6am on top of a hill in Romania.

Tabi, one of the Romanian leaders, led a few of us up in the morning to go and watch the sunrise over camp. We were stood at the top looking out over the view of the rolling hills, and beautiful colours, and for one moment, I ignored the so called 'problems' I thought I had in my life, and just cast my gaze over my surroundings. As we were sat waiting...Tabi began to recite this psalm...verses 1-2. Being there and being reminded of who created the beautiful view and who helps us was brilliant to hear...God is our awesome creator!

.

We returned to the camp, and I kept the psalm in my memory. The view, the people who I was with -- all of whom, God made...and I remain thankful for the trip to Romania. It reminded me of my Lord and Saviour, and the price he paid for me.
.

A few weeks later, back in England...I went to Forum with my CU committee. We were able to worship together and attend seminars and meetings about God. I went to a seminar about 'Secure in God's saving grace' - and once again, I was reminded of the grace and mercy poured down on all of us...despite our wrongdoings...God loves us! On the last night of worship, the guy leading worship asked us all to stand and read Psalm 121 together. This was great -- the same psalm being read at two separate events in two different countries -- my heart was leaping as I was fully aware of God's grace in that hall and I could recite the verses, as Tabi did, with a smile on my face and a heart overflowing with thankfulness to God.
.

It was amazing to see how God was working in me through this verse -- and how God was working in both Romania and England! It's completely astounding! :o)

Ninjas - by request of Miriam

I thought I'd do a quick post on Ninjas.

Now, ninjas. They are perceived as awesome...am I right? I seem to remember loving the Teenage Mutant *Ninja* Turtles...or whatever they are called now. And being a person with stealth, agility, awesome jumping skills, and being loved by millions of children...who wouldn't leap at the chance of being one?

Well...let me think of just one film...'The Last Samurai' - the ninjas attacked the Samurai base, and they pretty much all died at Tom Cruise's hand. They weren't cool in that film...they were evil trying to kill the Samurai leader.

See? I just don't know where my opinion lies anymore.

I guess ninjas are just stereotyped as cool...even though historically, they were quite devious people in battles and espionage. They would disguise, not just in black, but as different people like priests and entertainers -- very devious indeed. You just wouldn't know who to trust!

However, as this 'ninja' word has developed over the years...it lost its true history, and was replaced with people who wear black and can do karate. This is almost spitting in the face of proper ninjas who would train and study for years to become qualified to serve their country. They were seen as having superhuman powers, by being able to 'shapeshift' and splitting into multiple bodies - this illusion shows how great they were at their position.

So even though the people with headbands who can do karate are loved by millions, why are the people who perform illusions and do stunning acrobatics for their work forgotten?

I can't say I've studied Japanese culture in regards to ninjas, maybe they were evil...I can't say. But from my current stance, the word 'ninjas' should not be used so lightly...as it used to be a term people would have to earn.

Hope you enjoyed my post - Miriam requested it.

'Neighbours' - Does It Have The Hmmph To Keep Going?

First and foremost, of course it does. It's been going for over 2 decades...and has surprisingly made it successfully out of the channel change from BBC to Five.

I've been 'into' Neighbours, some would say, for around 10 years...my memories include Toadie being at Erinsborough High with a ponytail, and Susan Kennedy who was the principle who had long hair...and of course, I remember Lance and Hannah getting together, and Billy Kennedy!

Now, Toadie is a successful(ish) lawyer who wears normal clothes and has short hair, and Susan Kinski-Kennedy now has short hair...and is not principle, and to be honest, I don't know what she is now. Lance, Hannah and Billy have all gone. I have since Billy sometimes in 'House'...and often think the only thing left in 'Neighbours' to remind us of Billy is his picture on the wall of the Kennedy house.

The 'Neighbours' writers know how to keep me watching...they'll bring in new characters (who I won't like on first sight), but then somehow, I end up really liking them in some cases. Much like Lucas Fitzgerald and Donna. However, they have been unsuccessful in the cases of the Kinski kids, Sunny, and Callum. Shame really.

I'm still watching the show to this day, and even though the plotlines occasionally suck - I think my memories of the past keep me watching - having that shining hope that it will become what it once was. Libby was always my favourite in the past, and when she was brought back a couple of years ago...I thought that the revival would occur...but it hasn't just yet.

The acting from some of the cast is shocking, and other times quite phenomenal. Sunny is shocking - she'll put an American twang on some words, and an Aussie twang on others - that bugs me no end. The actors who have the ability to make me shed a tear are the phenomal ones - Susan, when she became temporarily blind from her MS and was calling for Libby...wow, that was an emotional episode. And Steph...she's just awesome.

Anyway, that's enough of my talk. Adios.

Johnny Depp vs Christian Bale

Today, I went to the cinema to see the fairly underrated film 'Public Enemies'. Considering it's huge cast, I'm surprised that the only publicity I've seen for the film has been from short adverts on TV. But it was enough to persuade me to see it.

The story is set in 1933, where John Dillinger has been made Public Enemy Number 1 by the FBI. John Dillinger was aged 30 at this time and was an infamous bank robber - along with his crew. JD is played by Johnny Depp - quite a coincidence. Anyway, I haven't seen Johnny Depp play any normal characters in the cinema, ...Jack Sparrow, Willy Wonka, Sweeney Todd, Edward Scissorhands? I guess when I say 'normal', I mean, characters without weird clothing or accents or...hair. So this film would be a new experience for me in a way.

Johnny Depp did a great job. He took the role...and was able to make it his own...and managed to get the audience on his side. He was a notorious thief, who was involved with several serious crimes, including murder. So, usually, you'd want this 'bad guy' to be caught...but not in this film...you want him to beat the FBI. This is where the competition starts...

Christian Bale is Melvin Purvis - a special agent in the FBI. He is head of the Dillinger Squad (historical inaccuracy - but I shall overlook it) - made just to focus on catching, you guessed it, John Dillinger. Christian Bale is magnificent. He plays the FBI agent who, unlike many other FBI agents, isn't afraid of getting his hands dirty...and knows what he wants and will get it. From this description, he may seem like a character that is easy to hate. But...there are some scenes where he seems humble, and gentle. This is what makes it so difficult to pick a side - but that is also what makes the film so good!

These two actors can take on any role any make it their own...to list a few.

Johnny Depp

- Jack Sparrow (pirate)

- Edward Scissorhands (robot)

- Willy Wonka (strange chocolatier)

- JM Barrie (famous writer)

- Roux (Irish river rat)

Christian Bale

- Bruce Wayne (Batman, hero)

- Alfred Borden (magician)

- Laurie (lovable next door neighbour)

- John Connor (continued character, leader of human rebel group)

- Trevor Reznik (anorexic insomniac)

They aren't typecast in anyway, and you don't see the character and say during the film, 'Well Johnny Depp just said this and did that...' You don't see the actor...you see their character which is what makes a great actor.

I loved the film. I definitely recommend it. Along with these two Hollywood giants - you will recognise a lot of the cast - you may need to go home and imdb them...but you'll recognise them! Included are:

David Wenham (Lord of the Rings, Australia, 300)

Giovanni Ribisi (Friends, Lost in Translation, Cold Moutain)

Leelee Sobieski (Joy Ride, Never Been Kissed)

Channing Tatum (Coach Carter, Step Up)

Rory Cochrane (CSI: Miami, A Scanner Darkly)

Emilie de Ravin (Lost)

and Oscar winner Marion Cotillard. She won the Best Actress Academy Award for 'La Vie en Rose' - and in this year's Oscars as she was praising Kate Winslet, it was noticable that French is her mother tongue and her English isn't too good. However, in this film, her English was fantastic and her American accent was unbeatable. Pretty much an unknown actress, yet an Oscar winner...strange combination, but it works wonderfully.

Again, go and see this film - it's a great watch.

CSI Thoughts

It's just gone 7.30pm.

I have less than 1 and a half hours wait until I can find out what happened to Horatio Caine in CSI: Miami. I've been waiting for about 6 months to find out whether Horatio is actually dead or not.

At the end of the last season, Horatio was standing just outside of an airport hanger. He takes off his famous sunglasses, and the camera pans up so you can see him and aeroplane from above. Suddenly, a gunshot is heard and Horatio collapses to the ground. Unexpected in every meaning of the word! You then are struck with all sorts of theories surrounding it - Horatio can't possibly have been shot? It's a plan! He can't be dead - he's Horatio. The audience are then provided with a close up shot of Horatio struggling for breath, with his trademark sunglasses broken. The camera pans up again...and Horatio does not move.

If you are an avid fan of the show, then this series of events will make you feel helpless and hopeless. Even though Detective Horatio Caine is a fictional character, he provides you with hope that uncorruptable people do exist. His death would be devastating.

And to rub salt into the wound, the camera goes to outside of the Miami Dade Police Department where we see Detective Ryan Wolfe receiving a text saying 'It's done'. Ryan Wolfe is part of the CSI team - so if he is involved in this crime...it will be an even bigger blow and he knows how to cover his tracks. However, he may be completely innocent and the text was to provide the audience with someone to blame. I guess we'll find out later. I would like to see how the characters of Calleigh Duquesne and Eric Delko will react to Horatio's demise (if he is actually dead)...and what they will do should they find out who was responsible as Ryan was the new guy when Eric's best friend, Tim Speedle, was killed in the beginning of season 2. Eric did not like Ryan, and still doesn't - he puts up with him. Even though we have known Ryan for longer than Speedle, we still love Speedle because he was the original, and really nice and had great chemistry with the rest of the team. Ryan never really fitted in - you may feel sorry for him - but he is a little arrogant walking around in his lovely suits. But if Ryan is responsible, he'd better get away from Eric...quickly. Calleigh, on the other hand, is the ballistics expert who will be devastated should Horatio die. She is one who doesn't hold grudges, who cares for people and gives everyone a chance -- however, when she wants revenge, she is one who will get it at any cost. But not knowing anything about what will happen is a weird feeling as these characters are fictitious...but you can't help but care about them.

This is a bit like what has happened at the end of season 5 of CSI: New York that was broadcast this last Saturday. It's different because with CSI Miami, I can finally find out what happened tonight. It's the same because I'm at the stage where I feel helpless - I want to help the CSI: New York detectives and I can't.

In the last episode of CSI:NY, we saw the death of Detective Jessica Angell who was not a CSI, but part of the police department. She was the love of Don Flack's life, and she was shot. She was guarding a man about to testify against his father...this large truck crashed into the cafe where there were and started shooting. She wasn't a main character, but I still liked her character as she was a young woman, who again wasn't affiliated with criminal dealings, and was a detective - and this is, hopefully, my future panned out - minus the death by shooting bit.

Anyway, at the end of the episode, the CSIs are in a bar toasting to her memory. They share memories of her, and support each other in their mourning. Then just out of the window, you see this silver car slowly driving up outside the bar. The window slides down and you can't see anything in the car apart from this automatic weapon slowly making itself known to the audience...but not the CSIs. The gun starts shooting, and with an automatic, you can keep your finger on the trigger and keep going until you run out of ammunition. Bullets are fired...lots of bullets. All you see is the CSIs leaping to the ground - whether they've been shot or they have been jumping for cover is unknown. I know nothing.

Detective Mac Taylor
Detective Stella Bonasera
Detective Danny Messer
Detective Lindsay Monroe
Detective Don Flack
Adam Ross
Doctor Sheldon Hawkes
Doctor Sid Hammerback

These people were all in the bar. No one knows who will die, get hurt or live. I really like all the characters...but should the producers decide to remove a main character from the series - they should really think again. CSI: Crime Scene Investigation has crossed that line.

In the original series of CSI, it was great...the best series I've ever seen. The team were close, the mysteries were original and unique, yet not too complex. Now, as it has now finished it's 9th season - it's lost it's originality. The producers seem to think that making numerous stories interweaving throughout a season is what people want...but it just makes it confusing. If you miss one episode, you're lost. It used to be that each episode was simple, you didn't have to see other episodes to understand. If there was an odd episode where it would be helpful to have seen the previous episode, it wouldn't matter if you didn't because they explained the background to it within the episode - thus meaning you could easily understand what was going on.

Now, it's just too complex. They should go back to how it was...simple episode long storylines. Every once in a while a storyline that takes up two or three episodes is ok...but having a whole season dedicated to numerous storylines is just so tough to understand. And to really annoy...Gil Grissom has left the team to join his love Sara Sidle in Costa Rica, and Warrick Brown was shot in the head twice, and died - this episode was sad, very sad - I cried. But since then, the original characters have been leaving in their droves and new ones being brought in...and it's just not the same anymore...there isn't the same chemistry anymore as the only original characters are Catherine Willows, Nick Stokes, Greg Sanders and Jim Brass. - and Greg and Jim have only really become main character recently. Getting rid of 3 originals is not a good move...especially not in a space of one season, and they decide that the public will suddenly love this new guy, Raymond Langston. He's only just come in, he's not a CSI, he's not qualified, he's not the leader of the team and he's just not as likable as Gil Grissom. Big mistake. Ok, the guy is played by Lawrence Fishburne who you will recognise as Morpheus from the Matrix trilogy...but that doesn't mean we will automatically replace our respect that we had for Grissom to this new guy. His character needs to earn it - and this past season, he has not succeeded in my own opinion.

(The original, and best, CSI cast)

Anyway, hope you've learnt a lot from my thoughts about each programme, and each spinoff. This was originally just going to be a CSI: Miami post...but it seemed to grow! But if you are now desperate to find out what happened to Horatio...it's on FIVE at 9pm tonight - if you miss it, it'll be on demand5 online for one week. Watch it...and I'll post again with my thoughts after the episode!

MIssed Out...Big Time.

Why, oh why, do UCLan insist on such long terms?

I found out just now, that on the 29th March in London, the Empire Awards were on. Meaning lots of celebrities...lots of autograph and meeting opportunities. But just to rub salt in to the wound...Gerard Butler was there, as was Viggo Mortensen. Now, Gerard Butler is an amazingly talented actor and hopefully my husband one day...about 3 years ago, Viggo was in that position before he practically disappeared from the big screen and grew an unsightly beard. However...I still have a soft spot for him.

However, I was unable to attend because I'm in Preston which is quite a significant way away from London...and my moment to meet them both were over. I'm not sure when they'll next be at one event together...oh well...it may happen again and if it does...I'll be there!

The Spiky Cake

After many hours of slaving away in the kitchen...I have finally finished the aptly titled 'Spiky Cake'. Here it is, in all of its white chocolatey gloriness.

This cake is made up of two layers. Each layer is plain sponge, but with chunks of Dairy Milk chocolate melted into them. Then between the two layers, we have a thin layer of jam - just to stick it together! Surrounding the entire cake is plain buttercream, and here is the fun part...surrounding the cake are white chocolate drops...this bit took me ages because each drop had to have its pointy end out. I am unsure how many drops have been put onto this cake...but the end result is pretty darn good!

We will await the arrival of my flatmate (as it is his birthday cake) tomorrow...and then we can have the eagerly awaited taste test!

Clocks Moving Forward

I've just been watching 'Live at the Apollo' on BBC iPlayer, and I looked at the clock half way through and it said it was 12.20am...I was like fantastic...I can go to bed before 1 tonight.

As the show came to end, I looked at the clock again and it said it was 2.05am...for a split second, I was lost in this time warp where a 45 minute show lasts for about 2 hours...without the viewers realising. However, I soon remembered that we are to move our clocks forward this evening...means one less hour in bed tomorrow, but does mean that summer is coming gradually closer.

Now as I'm writing this, I'm a little confused as my computer screen automatically changed the time so it is 02.14. My watch says 01.15. My computer robbed me of an hour whilst I was distracted...and now I've got to go to bed because my aim of being in bed by 1am has well and truly gone out of the window. Night all.

Cliffs of Rock City

After an hour or so of thinking up a name for this blog and a description for it. I have finally done it - although, I am unsure whether the time just used was wasted, or whether this will be the start of a beautiful blog.

The name of my blog 'Cliffs of Rock City' comes from Brad Paisley's album 'Play'. I was lacking in inspiration for a name for the blog, so I went on iTunes and looked for a decent name. I felt this one was suitable for my blog...even though it has no relevance to anything really.

This is the song above...I know it won't be to everyone's taste - but I think Brad Paisley is a very talented musician. This is from his instrumental album...but he can sing too. After university, I would like to go to the US to see one of his shows...it will be immense.